The good news for solar energy wannabes just keeps on coming, from the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (which takes the $2,000 cap off rebates) to Colorado’s renewal of the Solar Rebate Program, which gives Mile High residents a real impetus for installing photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems.
This Colorado program, offered through the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) to homeowners and small businesses wishing to install solar electric or solar domestic hot water systems, was created to address rising demand by Colorado residents for renewable energy initiatives, particularly solar.
California advertises itself as the sunshine capital of the nation, but Colorado residents also enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year, making the Colorado climate ideal for solar. Now, with the renewal of the Solar Rebate Program, the economic climate is equally as bright.
The program is administered through the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association (CoSEIA), and extends rebates formerly offered by creating a new program launch date of February 2, 2009. Under the program, Colorado residents can avail themselves of matching grants provided to participating program partners. These partners, which include cities like Ouray, non-investor owned utilities like Estes Park Light & Power, and various non-profit organizations like CLEER (Clean Energy Economy for the Region) out of Glenwood Springs, effectively double rebate funding for individuals hoping to install solar electric systems
The program provides rebates of up to $9,000 per residential solar electric system – that is, $4,500 from the GEO and a like amount from the partner – and up to $15,000 per system for small businesses. The rebates are not extended to larger businesses, or to residences which are not grid-tied or operating under a net metering system, which measures electricity sent back to the grid.
According to Jill Markey, who with her husband operates Alternative Power Enterprises, there has never been a better time, with new rebates tripling in value from their current cap of $3,000. In addition, a 2007 Colorado law allows municipalities to offer tax incentives or rebates, and the recent participation by the town of Ridgway means residents can add another 7.5 percent savings on the local purchase of a solar system.
Once you’ve identified the opportunity, consult one or more of the CoSEIA approved contractors (many of which can also be found on Cooler Planet’s preferred provider list) and arrange for a bid. Your solar system can be up and running, saving you money and the environment from pollution, before the snow starts to melt.