Comments on: FTL Solar gets funds for power-generating buildings

The growing acceptance of thin-film solar cells opens up possibilities for structures that make their own electricity, like military posts or remote medical stations.

[dbargen]

Almost there....
Panels on buildings with large roof areas, such as hospitals, are a good way to offset energy costs, but the amounts cannot be counted on for budgeting or power self-sufficiency. This kind of technology has been around for a while, and unless they make a miraculous discovery, there's no chance of solar becoming a primary power supply. Look to this stuff only to lower your energy bill slightly, nothing more.

[mikeburek]

Another benefit from putting solar cell panels on the tops of buildings, and maybe the sides, is that it would also add an extra layer of shade to the buildings. Wouldn't covering the rooftop significantly lower the temperature of the roof because the actual roof itself will be in shade? Then the AC would work less. And maybe the AC would even be fully powered by the solar cells since it would need less power? It's like houses that plant tall trees nearby to provide shade. Except instead of apples or oranges, you'd get electricity.

[strategynode]

Why aren't these panels on the roof of every building? The government could provide better tax credits to businesses that would make it possible.