Why Solar

Solar is the fastest growing energy source in the world, and for good reason. It offers a limitless supply of clean, safe, renewable energy for heat and power. And it’s more affordable, more efficient, and more reliable than ever.

The advantages of Solar and other renewable power sources are clear: greater independence from imported fossil fuels, a cleaner environment, diversity of power sources, relief from the volatility of energy prices, more jobs and greater domestic economic development. With new solutions like the Dow POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingles, solar is moving into the mainstream and growing worldwide at 40-50% annually.

And the sun is abundant - enough sunlight reaches the earth's surface in one HOUR to power all of mankind’s energy needs for one YEAR. And because solar power is generated with sunlight, not heat, even states in Northern climates of the U.S. are great areas for solar use.

There has never been a better time to go solar

• A rooftop installation of DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingles is much more affordable than most people realize. With the ability to cover the cost of a solar system in the first half of its intended life, and generate power and savings immediately, a DOW POWERHOUSE roof has a lower net cost over its lifetime than a home equipped with a conventional roof and grid-supplied electricity.
• With Federal tax credits of 30%, along with possible state and utility discounts, solar energy has never been more financially attractive. Or aesthetically pleasing.
• For specifics on what solar energy will cost any homeowner, consider specifics such as a home’s size, the orientation of the roof, the weather, the homeowner’s energy offset goals, local utility rates and available renewable energy programs.

More than just an Energy Solution – it’s Energy Empowerment.

• Now you can take control of those utility bills by using the sun’s clean abundant energy. Every kWh of energy created is one you don’t have to buy from the power company. Finally, a roof that powers your home and empowers you.
• Curious about living in an energy-efficient home that generates all the power it needs? Read about our latest project, the InVision Zero Home.
• http://www.invisionzerohome.com.

Solar in America.

The U.S. solar industry is growing exponentially, creating market opportunity, jobs and spurring economic growth

• More than 100,000 Americans work in the solar industry, double the number since 2009.
• They work at more than 5,000 companies, the vast majority being small businesses, in every state.
• In the last year, solar grew by 69%, making it one of the fastest growing sectors in the economy.
• Solar power in the U.S. now exceeds 3,100 megawatts, enough to power more than 630,000 American homes.

The Solar Industry is expected to stay strong and only get stronger

• The U.S. is projected to become the world’s largest solar market by 2014.
• Solar is already the fastest growing energy sector in the U.S. and by 2014 it will likely be the largest source of new electric capacity in America.

The POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle is Made in the USA at Dow’s small scale manufacturing facility in Midland, Michigan. Dow has also begun construction of a new, large-scale facility at Dow’s Midland, Michigan Operations site, which will create up to 1,275 jobs between now and 2015.

The continued success of the global solar industry will require the kind of technical excellence, market insight, ease of adoption & manufacturing know-how that is embedded in the DOW POWERHOUSE™ product and at the core of Dow’s strengths.