Can I ask a dumb question? Since we are YET AGAIN in an crisis over the cost of ENERGY, both in dollars and in the effect on our environment, (nuclear radiation, oil spills), why are we not maximizing the FREE energy of the sun and rain?

Yes, I know, solar panels are expensive and rainwater harvesting systems can also be pricey. Plus, I have been informed that our electrical bills are 'too cheap,' and our water and sewage bills are 'too low' to make it worthwhile to conserve water and electricity. Correct me if I'm wrong, but haven't we built big damns to generate this cheap energy? Damns that destroy our wildlife and block salmon and other fish upstream to spawn? Also, we (taxpayers of King County), have built a new sewage treatment plant so 'we need to use it' since we have already paid to have it constructed. That's like saying we 'can't afford' to recycle because we built a new landfill and we have to fill it up. What is wrong with this?Rainwater storage tanks that will be buried

I'd rather invest in solar energy and rainwater harvesting at my home than pay for a bigger sewage plant. How can a regular home owner afford solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems? Our government could offer heavy tax credits for the installation of these systems into homes. The home owner would benefit by receiving an energy harvesting installation (sun and water) along with ETERNAL SAVINGS on utility bills. Germany does it. That's why Germany is so energy independent. Why can't we do it? What, you say? Our government can't afford to give us tax credits? Then why are we currently giving $35 BILLION in tax breaks to the oil companies? Just tell me why. I'd really like to know.

Comments can be posted at /design-inspirations-blog/2011/4/11/green-talk-natures-free-energy.html#comments

Stormwater - Stormwater is a big polluter in our area. Stormwater is rain and snow melt that runs off surfaces such as rooftops, paved streets, highways, and parking lots. As water runs off these surfaces, it can pick up pollution such as: oil, fertilizers, pesticides, soil, trash, and animal waste. When stormwater goes into a storm drain, it is not treated. It goes directly into Washington waters. Rainwater harvesting and treatment reduces stormwater pollution.