GM and Solar Power

This is a simple idea to help GM recover while at the same time returning Americans to work and further developing our alternative energy program.

Use the un-used GM facilities and workers to manufacture, distribute, and install PV solar panels.

Our government is already providing incentives for solar panel installations and has promised to further encourage alternative fuels to reduce emissions. Germany and Japan have made great strides in the adoption of solar panels (including lining their highways with them) and we could fine-tune our incentives based on those countries successes. In addition, by creating a mass producer of solar panels, the cost of solar panels would decrease making adoption even more likely.

Secondly, the GM bankruptcy has closed several dealerships that had employed mechanics and other skilled workers. The training required to train these skilled workers to install solar panels would (in my opinion) be minimal. The dealerships themselves could become solar panel showrooms and distribution centers.

Production facilities (such as the one in Spring Hill) and supply lines have closed as well. These facilities have experience supplying and making things from glass, metal, and plastic. They could be re-tooled quickly.

Other workers too could be used…designers, purchasers, engineers, etc - skilled jobs right here in the USA.

This is a simple idea and it could have great potential to save American jobs and stimulate our alternative energy plan. Please give it your consideration and if you think it might work – tell your representatives about it.

A former energy specialist and engineer,

Dawn Wetzel