I can’t decide if solar energy is right for manufacturers as an energy source.
On the one hand, anything that gets us away from dependence on oil is nothing but a good thing. On the other, manufacturing businesses – especially SMBs – likely can’t justify the hefty initial investment in current solar technology.
Please spare me the argument that it pays for itself, or that “you can sell back to the grid” to offset costs. Those are long-term issues for businesses with wicked cash flow and shrinking margins. And the energy needs of a manufacturer are much greater than most other businesses. Besides, if any technology gets the nod first, it’s likely gonna be for something that automates or improves the processes of the business.
For a quick video overview of solar power with consideration for manufacturing applications, check out this video from Cisco over at bMighty.com.Now that you know where I stand, consider another angle to all this. In the video, the cat explaining how businesses buy and install solar technology says his company’s been seeing 50% growth every year. He goes on to point out that his two solar panel suppliers are “at capacity” and they’re in “the Philippines and Japan.”
So what about using solar power as a catalyst to help U.S. manufacturing? You can find several examples of solar power’s potential from myriad sources (here, here and here).
Solar power manufacturers are enjoying accelerated growth, while many in mature or shifting markets struggle. The time is right to make a change. It’s been suggested by many that bold initiatives are called for to rebuild the fading U.S. infrastructure – so why not a bold initiative to renew U.S. manufacturing dominance through solar power.
It kills 2 birds. Or, I should say, revives them.
Here in Michigan we're getting kicked where the sun doesn't shine. Maybe working on finding some sunshine is a good idea for alot of reasons.