I'm not sure that I get your point, Brad. It seems that you are quibbling over whether or not to use regular or premium unleaded when your vehicle is a deisel. Does the math bother you because you think Citizenre is a scam? You don't express this directly, and sometimes you seem to recommend them. I'm a little confused (and I'd like to know if they are a scam).

Alternately, so what if the math doesn't add up or you end up paying a few cents more per kwh? The point is that you will be using solar energy, rather than fossil fuels. For some people, this is more important than quibbling over the math. If your interest is in going solar NOW, Citizenre is the way to go; if your interest is in saving money, then maybe the environment isn't your top priority.

For me, the calculations need to be based on the impact the type of energy used is having on the planet. I personally prefer solar because I am well aware of the consequences (environmentally, socially, politically) of fossil fuels. Besides, it just makes sense to use an energy source that COMES TO US in MASS AMOUNTS in a form that we can EASILY HARNESS.

We make choices all the time that are despite the math; for instance, leasing a car rather than buying one. It makes more sense to buy the car because you have made an investment and can try to get a return on your investment. Leasing a car means you are taking a loss, period; however, leasing is popular because people want the option of upgrading and they want someone else to take care of all of the details (maintenance, paperwork, etc.)

I think what Citizenre is doing is a step in the right direction--it's making solar available to an entire demographic of people for whom solar wasn't an option before. It also caters to the people who aren't as concerned with making a return on their investment, or how the company is going to do that. I only wish it were available to renters (like me).

If you want to check some math, click on the Solar Savings Calculator at www.jointhesolution.com. It calculates how many cars could be (hypothetically) taken off the road if you switched to solar. I find this to be the most important math.

I appreciate this thread of conversation that you have instigated, Brad. I wish more people were talking about it in such a sensical manner. I appreciate your math too, because as much as I would like to disregard it, it is a major consideration for most--especially those who don't consider themselves environmentalists. If math is what will bring people to solar power, then calculate away!