Why did Reagan remove the White House solar panels?
In 1979, President Jimmy Carter installed 32 solar panels on the roof of the White House to set an example for alternative energy sources. Seven years later, President Reagan had the solar panels removed, an action that angered many conservationists.FunctionThe solar panels installed during the Carter administration heated water in the White House kitchen.MisconceptionsSome critics claim that removing the solar panels was Reagan’s first official action when he took office in 1981. The solar panels were not removed until 1986, when the White House roof was being repaired.ConsiderationsIn the late 1970s, the U.S. faced skyrocketing oil prices. By 1986, when Reagan had the solar panels removed, oil prices had plummeted to near-record lows, making solar energy and conservation low priorities.SignificanceTo Reagan’s critics, the removal of the solar panels symbolized the administration’s attitude toward energy conservation and the environment. The Reagan administration also allowed Carter-e
