We need solar photovoltaic (electricity from the sun), we need wind power. Ideally each building will be entirely energy self-sufficient. Until that moment we need to pursue the most effective strategies to save money, reduce pollution and minimize the use of polluting foreign fuels.

After pricing solar installations, subtracting federal and state tax credits and subtracting power company rebates we find the following.

The payback period for solar photovoltaics is 17 to 20 years*, while the payback period for a solar hot water heater is 10-14 years (depending on usage patterns and fuel used).

* source: http://www.rantlust.com/suman/2007/08/06/does-installing-a-photovoltaic-pv-solar-energy-system-make-financial-sense/