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When a major program like 60 Minutes airs a segment claiming clean technology is “dead,” it’s hard not to be a little shocked. As a company that has been installing solar in California since 1974, that claim feels like it's from another reality. The report made several points about the future of renewables that simply don't match what we see every day. We see high demand, falling costs, and a real desire for energy independence. This article is our response, based not on sensational headlines, but on decades of hands-on experience.

What is "60 Minutes"?

Before we get into the details of the report, it helps to understand what “60 Minutes” is and why its perspective carries so much weight. For decades, the show has been a cornerstone of American television journalism, known for its in-depth stories and high-profile interviews. It’s a program many of us grew up with, trusting it to deliver thoughtful, well-researched news. This long-standing reputation is precisely why a segment dismissing the entire clean energy sector is so jarring and deserves a closer look. The show’s influence means its reports can shape public opinion, making it crucial to check the facts when they cover a topic as vital as the future of our planet’s energy.

The Show's Origins and History

“60 Minutes” first aired on CBS back in 1968, created by Don Hewitt and Bill Leonard. They designed it as a "news magazine" for television, featuring several distinct segments in each episode, much like articles in a print magazine. This format was a departure from traditional nightly news and allowed for deeper, more narrative-driven storytelling. It quickly became the gold standard for this style of broadcast journalism, setting the stage for many similar programs that would follow over the years. Its unique approach gave reporters the time and resources to dig into complex issues, establishing a new form of television news.

Investigative Reporting from the Start

From its earliest days, the show built its identity on a specific style of reporter-centric investigation. Instead of just presenting facts, correspondents became part of the story, conducting tough interviews and uncovering details that might otherwise stay hidden. This method, often confrontational but always compelling, turned journalists like Mike Wallace into household names. The show’s commitment to investigative work cemented its reputation as a tough, credible news source that wasn’t afraid to hold powerful people and institutions accountable for their actions.

The Enduring Legacy of Andy Rooney

For more than 30 years, from 1978 to 2011, each episode of “60 Minutes” ended with a segment from Andy Rooney. His witty, and often grumpy, commentary on everyday life provided a lighthearted counterpoint to the serious investigative pieces that preceded it. Rooney would muse on everything from the contents of his desk drawer to the absurdity of modern packaging, becoming a beloved cultural icon in his own right. His closing thoughts gave the show a unique personality and a human touch that resonated with millions of viewers each week.

A Look at the Show's Impact

The influence of “60 Minutes” on American culture and journalism is hard to overstate. Since moving to its Sunday night time slot in 1975, it has consistently been one of the most-watched programs on television. Its success demonstrated that thoughtful, serious journalism could also be a massive commercial success. The show proved that audiences had an appetite for substance, and its ratings dominance for many years gave CBS a powerful and prestigious anchor for its primetime lineup, influencing how other networks approached news programming.

Record-Breaking Ratings

For a news program to achieve the kind of ratings “60 Minutes” has is remarkable. It holds the record for being the longest-running primetime show to air in the same time slot in U.S. television history. For five seasons, it was the number one most-watched show in the country, a feat unheard of for a news magazine. This incredible viewership gave the show a massive platform, allowing its reports to reach a broad and diverse audience and spark national conversations on a weekly basis.

Prestigious Awards and Recognition

The quality of its journalism has been consistently recognized with the industry’s highest honors. “60 Minutes” has won more Emmy Awards than any other primetime program in history, with a staggering 138 wins. It has also received 20 Peabody Awards, which celebrate excellence in storytelling in broadcasting. These accolades reflect a long history of impactful reporting and a commitment to journalistic standards that have, for the most part, defined the show’s legacy and built a deep well of public trust.

Meet the Correspondents

A huge part of the show's identity is its team of on-air correspondents. These journalists are the faces of "60 Minutes," and their reporting styles have defined the program across different eras. They are known for their tenacity and ability to secure interviews with some of the most elusive and powerful figures in the world. The roster of correspondents, both past and present, reads like a who's who of broadcast journalism, each bringing their own unique voice and expertise to the stories they cover for the program.

Current Hosts

The current team continues the show's tradition of in-depth reporting. It includes veteran journalists like Lesley Stahl, who has been with the program since 1991, alongside Scott Pelley, Bill Whitaker, and Anderson Cooper. More recent additions such as Jon Wertheim, Sharyn Alfonsi, and Cecilia Vega have also joined the ranks, bringing fresh perspectives to the storied news magazine. Together, they cover a wide range of topics, from politics and international conflicts to science and culture.

Famous Former Hosts

The show’s legacy was built by a group of legendary journalists who became icons of the industry. Mike Wallace was famous for his tough, no-nonsense interview style, while Morley Safer was known for his masterful storytelling. Dan Rather and Ed Bradley also had long, distinguished careers on the program, contributing to some of its most memorable and impactful reports. These correspondents established the show's reputation for fearless journalism and set a high bar for all who followed.

How to Watch "60 Minutes"

Even with all the changes in how we watch television, "60 Minutes" remains accessible. The show has maintained its traditional broadcast slot for decades, making it a Sunday evening ritual for many families. But for those who have cut the cord or prefer to watch on their own schedule, there are plenty of digital options available. This flexibility allows the show to reach a modern audience while still serving the loyal viewers who have been tuning in for years.

When It Airs

Since late 1975, “60 Minutes” has reliably aired on Sunday nights at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time on CBS. This consistent scheduling has made it a television institution and a fixture in American homes. While it is sometimes delayed by live sports coverage, particularly during football season, viewers know they can almost always count on finding it in its long-held time slot. This predictability has been a key factor in its enduring success and loyal following.

Where to Stream Full Episodes

If you miss the Sunday broadcast, it’s easy to catch up online. Full episodes of “60 Minutes” are available for streaming on the CBS News website and on the streaming service Paramount+. These platforms also offer extra content, including unaired footage and interviews, allowing viewers to get more context on the stories featured in the show. This digital access ensures the program's journalism can be viewed anytime, anywhere.

Recent Changes and Past Controversies

Despite its esteemed history, “60 Minutes” has not been without its challenges and criticisms. Like any long-running institution, it has faced periods of transition and has had to address questions about its reporting. Recently, the show has been undergoing some significant shifts behind the scenes, and it has a history of controversial segments that have drawn public backlash. These instances serve as a reminder that even the most respected news organizations can sometimes get the story wrong.

A New Direction for the Show

Under new leadership at CBS News, “60 Minutes” is reportedly being pushed in a new direction. The focus is shifting toward more "hard-hitting" investigative stories, potentially moving away from some of the softer features the show has also been known for. While a renewed emphasis on investigative journalism can be a good thing, it can also create pressure to produce sensational reports that generate buzz, which may have been a factor in the segment on clean energy.

Key Staffing Updates

Change is also reflected in the show's staffing. Following a series of recent job cuts across CBS News, many long-time producers and staff at “60 Minutes” are expected to be let go. Such significant turnover can impact the institutional knowledge and editorial judgment within a newsroom. When experienced hands leave, it can alter the culture and direction of a program, sometimes leading to shifts in the tone and quality of its reporting as new teams and workflows are established.

Notable Controversies Throughout its History

The clean energy segment isn't the first time "60 Minutes" has faced criticism for its reporting. The show has been at the center of several major controversies over the years. For example, a report on unintended acceleration in Audi cars and another on the pesticide Alar on apples were both accused of using questionable reporting techniques that created public panic. These past incidents show a pattern of occasional sensationalism and highlight the importance of questioning their narratives.

Investigative Reporting and the Rise of Clean Energy

While "60 Minutes" continues to produce compelling reports on important topics, from the stress facing air traffic controllers to the use of drones in modern warfare, its recent take on renewable energy feels like a significant misstep. The claim that the clean energy industry is "dead" is completely disconnected from the reality we see every day. Here in California, the demand for sustainable energy solutions is stronger than ever. Homeowners are actively seeking ways to lower their electricity bills, gain independence from an unreliable grid, and reduce their carbon footprint. This isn't a dying trend; it's a powerful movement that is reshaping how we power our lives.

For over 50 years, our team at AMECO has been dedicated to helping families and businesses make the switch to clean energy. We've seen firsthand how advancements in technology have made solar more efficient and affordable than ever before. The idea that this progress is stalling couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, the combination of solar solutions and battery backup systems is becoming the new standard for homeowners who want reliable power, especially with the increasing frequency of blackouts. This isn't just about saving money—it's about taking control of your energy future, a choice that thousands of Californians are making every year.

Why Is Demand for Solar Energy Soaring?

To begin with, demand for renewable energy is at an all-time high, and continues to grow year in and year out. As  RenewableEnergyWorld.com notes, renewables, including California solar power, provided 19 percent of global energy consumption in 2011, the latest year for which such data is currently available.

In addition, it should be made clear that solar energy in particular, which was a special target in the 60 Minutes segment, has been thriving over the last decade and continues to grow at an exponential pace. The Solar Energy Industries Association reports that 2013 was a record breaking year for solar installation in the United States and 2014 promises to be even better.

Additionally, California added more solar energy in 2013 than it had in the previous 30 years combined. None of these facts sound like symptoms of an industry that is dying.

Are Investors Still Betting Big on Renewables?

Furthermore, the 60 Minutes report gets a number of smaller facts wrong, including its description of Vinod Khosla, a venture capitalist featured heavily in the segment. Khosla is held up as an example of an investor who lost faith in renewable energy after having plowed over a $1 billion into the industry and seeing no returns.

However, Khosla himself has published an open letter to CBS claiming that the network got the facts completely wrong: Not only has he invested nowhere near $1 billion, he has seen a solid return from his interests and will continue supporting the renewable energy sector.

What's the Real Future for Clean Technology?

It’s not known why 60 Minutes and Stahl got so many facts wrong, nor why they pushed an agenda that is firmly against the expansion of renewables. However, it’s indicative of the continued struggle that the solar industry faces to demonstrate its importance for achieving renewable energy goals.

It’s important for clean technology advocates to enumerate the benefits of solar power, which include lower pollution levels, job creation and improved finances for both households and businesses.

The Role of Combined Solar and Roofing Expertise

When you decide to go solar, you're not just adding technology to your house; you're making a major update to your roof. That's why working with a team that understands both is so important. A professional installer with deep expertise in both solar solutions and roofing ensures your system is integrated seamlessly and safely, protecting the structural integrity of your home. This combined approach prevents potential issues like leaks and ensures the installation is not only efficient but also aesthetically pleasing. At AMECO, our decades of experience mean we handle every project with a holistic view, making sure your roof is in optimal condition to support your solar investment for years to come, all under a more inclusive and simplified warranty.

Achieving Energy Independence at Home

One of the most powerful benefits of switching to solar is gaining control over your own energy. Instead of being subject to fluctuating utility rates and an unreliable grid, you can generate your own clean power right from your rooftop. This move toward energy independence means lower monthly electricity bills and a significantly smaller carbon footprint for your household. For residential customers in California, this offers stability and peace of mind, especially during power outages. By pairing your solar panels with a battery backup system, you can store excess energy to use at night or during a blackout, making your home a truly self-reliant and sustainable sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would a respected show like "60 Minutes" report that clean energy is failing if it's actually growing? It's hard to know the exact reasons behind their editorial choices. Sometimes, news programs aim for sensational stories that create a lot of buzz. While "60 Minutes" has a long history of quality journalism, this particular segment seems to have missed the mark by focusing on a narrative that doesn't match the data or the real-world experience of professionals in the field. The reality, especially here in California, is a thriving industry driven by high demand and continuous innovation.

With conflicting reports out there, is solar still a smart financial decision for my home? Absolutely. The fundamentals that make solar a great investment haven't changed. It allows you to generate your own power, which significantly reduces or even eliminates your monthly electricity bills. Think of it as pre-paying for decades of energy at a fixed cost. For many homeowners, the system pays for itself over time and then continues to provide free, clean energy for years to come, adding value to your home and giving you predictable expenses.

You mention energy independence. What does that really look like for a homeowner? Energy independence means you are no longer completely reliant on your local utility company. On a practical level, it means you have more control over your power supply and costs. When you pair solar panels with a battery backup system, you can store the extra energy your panels produce during the day. You can then use that stored power at night or, more importantly, during a grid outage, keeping your lights on and essentials running when the neighborhood goes dark.

Why is it so important to use a company that specializes in both roofing and solar? Your solar panels are mounted directly onto your roof, making them an integrated part of your home's structure. Using a company with expertise in both fields ensures the installation is done correctly, protecting the integrity of your roof and preventing future problems like leaks. It simplifies the process, as one team manages the entire project, ensuring your roof is in the right condition to support the solar system for its full lifespan.

What are the main reasons California homeowners are switching to solar now? The motivation is usually a combination of practical and personal reasons. Many are tired of unpredictable utility rate hikes and want to lock in lower, more stable energy costs. The increasing frequency of power outages has also made the reliability of a solar and battery system very appealing. Beyond the financial savings and stability, many people simply want to reduce their environmental impact and take a tangible step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• Look beyond the headlines: Despite what some media reports suggest, the renewable energy sector is growing rapidly. Real-world data shows record solar installations and continued, strong investment in clean technology.
• Solar offers true energy control: The high demand for solar is driven by homeowners wanting to reduce electricity costs and gain independence from an unreliable grid. Adding a battery backup system provides even greater security and peace of mind.
• Combine solar and roofing expertise for the best results: A solar installation is also a major roofing project, so it's essential to choose an installer who specializes in both. This integrated approach protects your home's structure and ensures your investment is built to last.

Related Articles

• 60 Minutes Gets the Facts Wrong on Solar Power
• Solar Industry Chiefs Celebrate the Pace of Renewable Energy
• California Breaks Solar Records in Q2, Will it Continue?
• How California Can Continue its Solar Energy Growth
• Blog | Solar Panel News | Solar Panel Company | AMECO Solar

They say that good things come in threes, but this week six great things happened here at AMECO Solar.

To start things off, one of our recent customers emailed us about their first “solar” bill. Now that they have installed solar panels and are using solar energy, their electric bill was only $24.79 (plus a $1.76 tax). This is down from a whopping $353.00 for this same time period last year, which means they are saving more than $325.00 this month!

In addition to this positive news, we had a record breaking week for reviews. Five customers reviewed us on Solar Reviews in the past week. They gave us 5 star ratings in categories including sales process, price charged as quoted, and quality of installation.

Here is what they had to say about their solar panel installation experience with AMECO:

#1 “Our September 2013 installation went very smoothly. We had our roof replaced at the same time. The solar installation crew worked closely with the roofer. Overall it was a positive experience. Everything went along on time and as promised. I am very pleased with the result.”

#2 “I’ve had my solar system for over 5 years now. The installation went smooth, and the system is performing better than projected. I highly recommend Ameco Solar.”

#3 “We have had Ameco install the solar arrays on our home as well as our apartment building. They were on schedule for the installations and the team was very good installing and cleaning up the job sites. Both arrays are working well with our home array outputting a little more power than we were estimated. We have recommended Ameco to a friend who is also pleased with the quality of their work.”

#4 “Ameco installed my solar system 5 1/2 years ago. I was very pleased with the execution of the project then and continue to reap the benefits. I recently had a solar tune-up and was pleased to learn that the system is performing so well.”

#5 “Ameco put solar panels on our new construction 4 years ago, and they are still performing in top condition. They were extremely professional, and a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Ameco to anyone considering solar panels.”

You may see more reviews about AMECO Solar on our Solar Reviews profile. So far, 57 customers have reviewed us for a solid 4.91 rating out of 5.

In recent years, solar companies have advertised that a $150 electric bill qualifies you for solar panel installation. So much so that many in Southern California believe they do not qualify for a solar electric system if their bill is under $150. As it turns out, almost everyone “qualifies” for solar energy whatever the cost of your utility bill.

Breaking Point for Solar Savings

Why do the solar marketers focus so much on $150? Typically, the more money you pay for electricity, the more solar panels will be able to save you. It is at about the $150 dollar mark that the payments for investing in solar panels may be equaled by the monthly savings. Many marketers have discovered that if the monthly savings are greater than your electricity costs from day one, then the odds are better for making a sale.

By weaving the $150 limit into solar advertising, some companies are using a clever tool to weed out people with smaller electricity bills. If they were truthful, they should be saying, “If your electric bill is $150 or more, then you qualify for a solar sales presentation!”

Different Reasons for Going Solar

Everyone has a different motive for going solar and it’s not necessarily all financial. There are other reasons for installing a solar array.

Many people are concerned about what they can do to reduce their carbon footprint. Lifestyle changes (like recycling and being a conscious consumer) are an important way to make less of an impact on the earth, but it is hard to live without electricity or hot water, so solar energy is the natural choice for producing clean power.

As an example, two of our customers who own  solar panels in Long Beach were only paying about $30 a month to SCE when they decided to go solar in the early 2000’s. Since their electric bill was on the smaller side, the estimated payback wouldn’t be until the 20th year that they own the system. However, it was important for them to use clean, renewable energy to power their home instead of relying on the fossil fuels delivered by the utility company.

Another reason people install solar panels is to take control of their energy future. Historically, electricity rates have risen by about 6% every year, and there is no telling when the utility companies will decide to raise prices even higher. By producing energy with their own solar panels, homeowners and businesses won’t be victim to the price increases of electricity during the entire lifetime of the solar array (about 25-30 years).

Solar is a Better Deal than the Utility

Your energy bill is simply a continuing and never ending expense. When you go solar, you are converting an expense into an asset. For those that choose to purchase their solar system, your energy usage will be an investment instead of a monthly cost. No matter the size of your bill, if the solar system pays for itself within its lifetime (usually 25-30 years), then it’s a much better deal that can be had from any utility company.

Having an electric bill less than $150 shouldn’t stop you from considering solar panel installation. Most people with smaller bills can still take advantage of the benefits of solar energy whether financial or not.

Frequently people want to know how many solar panels they will need based on the size of their home. However, the amount of electricity you use is more important for solar electric system design than the square footage of your home. This is mainly because people’s use of electricity varies in so many different ways.

Same House, Different Energy Situations

For instance, let’s say two families live next door to each other in 2,000 square foot homes. A young man lives in Home A with his fiancé; they both work long hours and often spend evenings out with friends. As a result, they don’t use much electricity and pay about $40 a month.

In Home B, two parents live with their two teenage children. They are either running the heater or air conditioner and use electricity to filter their pool, meanwhile the teenagers are always on their iPads, opening the refrigerator or watching TV. Since more people live in the house and their lifestyle requires more energy, their electricity bills run at about $325 a month.

Importance of Electricity Usage for Solar Panel Design

Even though they live in homes that are the exact same size, the family in Home B would most likely need to invest in more solar panels to bring down their electricity usage than the couple living in Home A.  Even if the households were identical in electric consumption, one home may have better solar exposure or less shade than another, which can mean more or fewer panels.

Electricity usage is also important because most utility companies in Los Angeles and Orange County limit the size of your solar system based on the amount of energy you currently use. This number is usually determined by looking at how much electricity you have used in the last 12 months.

Just Moved or Building Your Home? Here’s How it Works

Of course, there are always some exceptions to the rule. If you have only lived in your home for a few months or want to install solar panels on a home in construction, then most utility companies let us estimate usage based on your home’s square footage.

As an example, LADWP calculates this type of average at 2 watts for every square foot. So, a 2,000 square foot home would be allowed a solar array of 4,000 watts.  Depending on the type of panel that you choose, a system of this size would be anywhere from 12-18 solar panels.  Keep in mind, this formula to estimate consumption varies depending on who provides your electricity.

Another exception is sometimes made for people who are anticipating that their electricity usage will go up. If you are planning to buy an EV (electric vehicle) or install central air, for example, we can estimate the additional usage and factor it into the solar panel design and cost. But, the utilities are sticklers! They will make us submit proof of purchase along with the solar system application.

Find out How Much Solar Panels Cost

Interested in how many solar panels you will need for your roof and energy situation? Call us at (888) 595-9570 or email gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com, and have your electricity bills handy. We can typically provide a rough estimate based on your usage and a quick glance at your home on Google Earth. For those who would like a more specific price, we can schedule a solar evaluation where we meet at your home and evaluate your roof in person.