To the editor:
John Popa’s interview (forum) in the June 5th edition was a convoluted and confusing obfuscation of the fundamental question: “Will the county experience a reduction in its electric bill if a solar array is installed at the government center?”
The fact that Michigan rates lower on the scale for optimum solar placement than a sun drenched state like Texas is irrelevant. There are thousands of solar installations in our state.
The tone was sadly dismissive of the many independent judgments of local homeowners, farmers, and commercial entities who have already made the calculation that adding solar power is a wise investment even in Leelanau County.
The concluding proposition that only utility companies should be in the business of capturing solar energy and everyone else should resist the temptation to reduce their electric bills, seek energy self-sufficiency, or reduce their reliance upon fossil fuels is disingenuous when it is obvious millions of individuals, businesses (Leelanau Fruit, Wal-Mart, Ford) and government installations (Defense Department) around the world are actively and rapidly embracing solar energy.
If the county’s energy bill is lessened by the addition of a solar array it is a worthy undertaking and will demonstrate an example for others to consider.
Doug Whitley Northport
