Bear in mind that these were not photovoltaic (electricity-generating) panels. They were used only to heat water for laundry; they did not replace the fossil-f

Bear in mind that these were not photovoltaic (electricity-generating) panels. They were used only to heat water for laundry; they did not replace the fossil-fuel water heating used elsewhere throughout the White House (e.g. in the residence, offices, guest rooms, sinks, tubs, or showers). Far more energy was used in their manufacture and installation than conserved by their use. This is not to say that solar water-heating isn't a good application for large-scale water heating over time (e.g. a swimming pool), or a campsite shower.