Gylippus, it seems like you should have come to Science Cafe in May! We learned about how solar energy is a VALID alternative source of energy for Arkansas. It's actually cheaper for tax payers when you factor in the subsidies (which far outweigh those of alternative energy) given to, health costs (including deaths associated with mining coal) associated with, and environmental impacts resulting from fossil fuels. The cost of a module from one of the leading Chinese solar companies decreased from around $1.31 a watt in 2011 to around $0.50/W in 2014 and the costs are predicted to go down even further as production and installation techniques continue to become more efficient.
arhogfan501, I'm sure Mr. Hooks would LOVE to run his house off sustainable energy and has a clear picture of the world he would like to live in--a better one than we are living in now. And if we will forever be reliant to some degree on fossil fuels, why would we not minimize our use to stretch our non-renewable resources to their furthest extent?
Re: “UPDATED: A night at the Trump Show”
This article sums it up nicely.