already have reached a tipping point. What was once a slow and gradual change in energy consciousness is now turning to rapid adoption. Of course, it helps when gasoline sells for more than $4.60 a gallon, as it did in Southern California last summer. In fact, a new energy mindset is gathering momentum at an amazing rate.
Consider these events:
—The Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Summit held at the Del Mar Hilton in April revealed that solar roof tiles and wall paneling are now commonly being included in new home construction. Why? Developers understand their market value.
—Every $1 invested into solar technology by a builder increases the value of the home by $20, according to Mark Fischer, CFO and senior vice president of Grupe Homes.
—Grupe Homes built a “zero energy” community of 150 solar homes in Rocklin, CA. Each residence cuts energy use by about 60 percent. Typical energy costs range from $10 to $20 per month.
—According to at least one press report, the Grupe homes were sold “at double the rate” of conventional homes built by other companies.
Is this a neighborhood of “nuts?” Do these home buyers see an increased value in energy efficiency that just wasn’t a significant consideration previously? Or have they simply embraced the inevitable? Obviously, the argument that solar energy and other clean sustainable technologies are cost-prohibitive is a thing of the past. Yesterday’s news. And Tomorrow another “zero energy” community will rise. Maybe this time you—and your neighbors—will flock to the auction.
The day has come for “clean technology” because the phrase is now pregnant with implication. It suggests breathable air, safe environments, toxic-free zones and a sustainable quality of life. It also has economic undertones. Arguably, the vast majority of new technology innovations are related to cleantech, and therefore, new economic activity and opportunities as well.
Corporations that wish to emerge whole from today’s dark economic tunnel cannot wait to convert. The change that is upon us now is happening at a ferocious rate. Make or break may take on a whole new meaning for companies that wait too long to join the move to solar and other forms of renewable energy.
Still not convinced? Consider feng shui. When the Chinese art of creating harmonious environments was first introduced to Westerners, there was curiosity—and skepticism. Late-night comedians surely had fun mocking the new fad. Yet architectural firms that do business overseas eventually learned that the Chinese take this philosophy very seriously. Want to design a multi-million dollar complex in China? Time to study spatial arrangements and energy-flow patterns, the “chi” of architecture.
Pragmatism is a tough master. What seems far-fetched today may very well be accepted common wisdom tomorrow – if there is intrinsic benefit and value in the new trend.
Or if there is desperate need. Our nation can no longer rely on fossil fuels. As citizens we can no longer accept living and work environments that are “sick” with toxins and fumes. Conventional thinking must adapt to innovations and to new depths of perception, invention and courage. That’s the American way.
A “nut case” in the neighborhood? Not anymore.
