El Pasoans want solar energy even if it means paying more

At least that's what an El Paso Electric survey showed. Don't roll your eyes! El Paso Electric has not always been the biggest fan of solar energy so it's not in their interest to cook the numbers in favor of solar energy.

The ugly truth about solar energy is that, at least right now, it's more expensive than the -dirty-alternatives. But 1) it's better for the planet, and 2) costs are coming down fast. Still, cost is a major obstacle, so it's nice to know El Paso electricity consumers don't mind a little increase in their bill in order to go solar (EPE estimates it would only be $3 more on an average $60 residential bill in the span of five years).

Here's what the study found:

• 80% of residential customers strongly approve the use of solar energy
• More than 50% of customers believe investing in solar energy would create major economic and environmental benefits for the region
• Most consumers were OK seeing a slight increase in their bill so that EPE can invest more in solar energy, as follows:

The Solar City Task Force (of which La Greenga is a member) met with EPE this afternoon and they said that was a surprise. People are generally very resistant to paying more, regardless of the reason. Way to go, El Paso!