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Solar Power

Facts, not propaganda, should inform decision

West Virginia University officials are being urged to install solar panels on campus buildings by next April. They should do so if it makes sense.

We suspect some solar panels already are in use at the university. But what the Sierra Student Coalition is urging is for WVU to install large systems allegedly capable of serving most of the electricity needs of some buildings.

No decision has been made on the suggestion. But Traci Knabenshue, substantiability director of the university’s Facilities and Services Department, told a reporter WVU considers all substantiability efforts.

Solar energy technology has come a long way in the past several years. But it is not a sustainable power solution for the obvious reason that it depends on consistent sunshine. That does not always happen.

Using equipment such as solar panels for research is one thing, but relying on it day in, day out, is quite another.

WVU officials should take facts — not propaganda — into consideration in any decision about use of technology. The SSC’s petition should be considered in that light.

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