1974.11.15 “The New Challenge”
by Eddie Germano (1924-2026)
11 x 15, ink and wash on board
Coppola Collection
A native Bostonian, Germano became a full-time cartoonist in 1948, at age 24, after serving in WWII. Among other positions, he worked as the editorial and sports cartoonist for the Brockton Enterprise from 1963-1990.
An early look at achieving sustainable energy from the sun as a parallel to the space race. In 1974, reports on solar energy were dominated by the U.S. response to the 1973 oil crisis. Key government and congressional documents established federal funding for research and development, evaluated the feasibility of large-scale deployment, and laid the groundwork for what is now the Department of Energy.
Project Independence Blueprint (Solar Energy Task Force Report): Produced by the Federal Energy Administration, this landmark November 12, 1974, report analyzed the potential of solar technologies (including heating/cooling, photovoltaics, wind, and ocean thermal) to help the U.S. achieve energy self-sufficiency. It concluded that economically viable solar systems could significantly reduce oil imports before the year 2000.
Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974 (SERDDA): Enacted on October 26, 1974, this legislation authorized a vigorous national program to make solar energy a major contributor to U.S. energy needs. It led to the creation of the Solar Energy Research Institute.
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act of 1974 (October 26): This report and corresponding act established a coordinated five-year program to demonstrate the practical use of solar heating and combined heating/cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings.
