2nd Green Revolution

A number of companies, both solar manufacturers and producers, have tools to help consumers determine the feasibility of installing solar power systems on their homes. Sun Power Corporation provides a calculator to help homeowners ascertain their cost savings by installing a photovoltaic (pv) system. There are several variables that users can adjust in order to figure out their specific expense and payback. It is a powerful tool; similar to home mortgage calculators. In the same vein, there is a start-up company, Sungevity, in Northern California that is using satellite images to reduce the cost of estimating pv system installations. They currently do not serve locations outside the Bay Area, but hopefully will expand to more areas.

Lastly, to help consumers research the incentives and rebates, there are a few key resources that can help. DSIRE, Database of Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency, is a state-by-state database of all rebates for clean energy projects. In addition there are federal rebates for “Energy Efficiency” which were extended at the end of President Bush’s 2nd term. Feel free to check these out and let us know if they are helpful.

- Eric Wilson