Get to know Joe Utasi of Cinci Home Solar.
What are you going to speak about at the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR?
I am going to familiarize attendees with all the information they need to be able to design, purchase and install photovoltaic solar panels on their homes for $3 per watt (or less). I will touch on everything from design considerations, vendors, permitting and the National Electric Code to the difference in various types of systems and the good/bad points of each.
What are you most looking forward to sharing with FAIR attendees?
Simply the fact that solar IS affordable, despite the need for a significant up front investment. With a 5 year payback and a 30 year lifetime, this leads to a 25 year stream of profitable return on investment – which is a far cry from the markets and bonds or CDs at the present time.
Tell us about your background with your particular topic.
I’m a degreed electrical engineer and my first involvement with solar was back in 1977 with Dresser Industries in Houston Texas. I’ve always had a “plan” to put solar on my home(s), but after getting laid off from my most recent job and having a tough time staying in the corporate career game, I decided to get formally certified for Solar and bring my experience and ideas to DIY types who want to “Green” their homesteads!
Why should fairgoers attend your presentation?
NO boring, stuffed shirt presentation here. I’m giving nothing but good solid info based on practical, hands-on experience. I will accept questions during the seminar and keep it ON TOPIC. There is a lot of information to present in 1 hour, and I will keep it moving at a pretty fast pace. I encourage audience participation and have great enthusiasm for the topic.
How will you get to the FAIR, and how far do you have to travel?
I’ll be driving from Cincinnati, and it’s about 260 miles.
What are you most looking forward to at the FAIR?
I’d like to meet Ed Begley and exchange ideas with him. I also enjoy the great diversity of ideas, concepts and products available at the show that you normally don’t see elsewhere.
What advice do you have for attendees?
Bring a pen and paper – you’ll want to take notes! Also bring plenty of business (or personal) cards.
If you were stranded on a deserted island and could have only one thing, what would you choose?
A source of food and water!
Thanks, Joe. We’ll see you at the FAIR!
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Please visit the FAIR website for more information about the Seven Springs, Pa. FAIR September 24-25, and upcoming FAIRs in other locations. Tickets are on sale now.
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Keep an eye out for Trivia Ticket Tuesdays and Trivia Ticket Thursdays for your chance to win two tickets to the FAIR!