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May 15, 2009
Surprise: Solar House Doesn't Work
Posted by Dave Blount at May 15, 2009 11:21 AM
Our alternative energy future is on display in Troy, Michigan. Well actually, it's not on display…
It was supposed to be a shining example of the green movement — a completely independent solar-powered house with no gas or electrical hookups.
Seven months ago, officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the $900,000 house owned by the city of Troy that was to be used as an educational tool and meeting spot.
But it never opened to the public. And it remains closed.
Frozen pipes during the winter caused $16,000 in damage to floors, and city officials aren't sure when the house at the Troy Community Center will open.
"It's not safe right now, and there's no estimated opening time because it depends on when we can get funding," said Carol Anderson, director of the city's Parks and Recreation Department.
Since when is funding a problem? I'm sure another stimulus package will come along soon – not that any amount of money will keep pipes from freezing in Michigan when there's no reliable heat.
Here we see why government is so crucial in the transition to green energy: without coercion, people are going to insist on energy that actually works.
It won't save the polar bears — but it might be a suitable home for them.
On a tip from Bob S.
