[decimon]

I’m in favor of solar power if it finds its niche without subsidy. I doubt that any subsidies were factored in to the payback period for this project.

[familyop]

"I’m in favor of solar power if it finds its niche without subsidy."

There are niches with no need for subsidies miles from the nearest power grid hookups, where it's more expensive to pay for the extremely long power lines. I'm in that kind of situation. The only way to make it cost-effective compared to grid electricity, is to study much, look for the lowest prices on the right components for your situation (and the right appliances) and build the power plant yourself. [Can be dangerous for anyone without experience in electrical installations with the NEC) Anything installed by contractors will be very expensive.