In 1979, Jimmy Carter installed 32 solar panels on the presidential mansion, stating, "A generation from now, this solar heater can either be a curiosity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken, or it can be a small part of one of the greatest and most exciting adventures ever undertaken by the American people." While his actions to disrupt the energy market seemed promising, President Reagan quickly removed the panels once he took office. The debate over the role and potential of the clean energy sector has continued for a half-century since that time.