Financial Incentives

Net Metering When a grid tied solar electric system is installed the system will produce its max power during the midday when most people are not home. During this period the system will produce power and send it back to the utility making your meter spin backwards counting down what you owe each month.

Carbon Credits One carbon credit is issued for every megawatt hour of renewable production(1000 kilowatt hours). These credits can be sold to utilities to help them meet their clean energy production mandates.

Federal Rebate As part of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 the federal government gives a 30% tax credit to businesses and home owners. Businesses also have the option to take a U.S. Treasury Grant in lieu of the 30% credit in order to receive the funds in the same calendar year. This grant opportunity is set to expire 12/31/11 http://www.dsireusa.org

Rising Electrical Cost It has been unwillingly accepted by the public that each year our utility cost will rise and we have no choice but to continue to pay more for our electricity. However, we really do have a choice. By investing in a renewable solar system you are paying a set price now for your future electricity.

Property Value It is estimated that by adding solar to your home, for every $1000 in annual electrical savings you add $20,000 to the value of your home. (Appraisal Journal. October 1999)

Other Reasons to Invest in Solar

Carbon Reduction As the demand for electricity across our country grows the number of carbon emitting power plants grows with it. In the state of Virginia this is a huge concern as some estimates say we are already powered 48% by coal. This has been hard to oppose in previous years due to the affordability of coal and the ability of Utilities to produce cheap energy from it. Now with financial incentives across the board we can stop adding to the carbon problem and produce clean distributed energy as individuals by investing in renewables.

Education and Jobs With developing countries around the world investing in sustainable infrastructures, it is important America stays in the forefront of the technologies involved. As the sustainable market grows, educational programs and facilities are created, out of which comes jobs, skilled workers, and economic growth.

Energy Security As the climate changes and storms increase the magnitude of their destructive path each year, Solar Battery Backed-up Systems are becoming a necessity within our infrastructure. Investing in battery backed-up power can ensure that the basic essentials in a household are covered during emergencies and severe power outages.