As indicated in the Real-World Focus (RWF) item on page XXX, consumers (including businesses and local governments) interested in using solar power generally have an option to purchase or to lease the solar panels. To adequately address the questions below, you will have to first do some research on the Internet. Please remember to document the website (or other source) from which you obtained information related to this exercise.

1. In general, what are the relevant costs associated with the lease decision and the purchase decision as regards the acquisition of solar panels?

2. What are the primary non-financial considerations associated with this particular lease-vs.-purchase decision? Address this question from the standpoint of individual consumers, businesses, and society at large (i.e., the environment).