With the growing adoption of solar technology in Massachusetts and other states around the country, more and more PV installers have entered the marketplace.  Between large national solar companies, smaller regional installers, or construction companies with some solar expertise, there are many different options to choose from.  You’re not always going to be comparing apples to apples.  So really, what should you look for in a solar installer?

1.        What work have they done? 

Naturally, you would think the large, national firm may have the most experience.  Large companies may have a large portfolio of installations, but that doesn’t mean their crew has a lot of experience.  To avoid headaches and unnecessary delays, you should seek a company who has a familiarity with the local weather conditions, regional permitting rules and electric codes, and state and municipal incentive programs.  You should also inquire about the types of projects the contractor typically works on.  Some companies are better suited for residential/small commercial projects, while others work exclusively on large-scale solar farms.

2.       Are they properly licensed and insured?

Licensing varies by state.  I recommend you look up the licensing necessary for your state and make sure your installer has these credentials.  In addition to this, find out if they are approved for your state’s rebate program.  Massachusetts, for instance, does not have approved installers, but they do designate expedited installers who have earned the privilege to more quickly complete applications and process rebate payments.  There is also one voluntary certification program that provides a national standard of excellence for industry professionals.  NABCEP, or the North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals, administers PV installer credentialing.  In order to obtain the PV certification, applicants must meet experience prerequisites and a pass a rigorous exam encompassing PV system design, installation, safety, project management, maintenance, troubleshooting, etc.  Of the more than 14 million people living in New England, only 100 have obtained the NABCEP certification.  NABCEP PV Installer certification is tied to individuals rather than a company.  With any company that you work with, they may have certified installers, but they may not be tied specifically to your project.  My company, Brightstar Solar, guarantees at least one NABCEP certified PV installer will be on-site at all times during construction of your system.

3.       Is the work being subcontracted?

After the sale, many PV systems are farmed out to subcontractors for rebate, installation, and service.  Since big box stores, like Home Depot and Lowes, and national group-based solar purchasing concepts have aggressively entered the market, they are also quickly expanding their installer network to construct these systems.  Let’s face it, a good solar company will not have any problems finding work, nor do they want the headaches of dealing with a middleman.  That means they won’t need to sign on with the big box store or solar marketing firms.  So who’s doing the work?

 4.       Where is the company headquartered?

You are probably asking yourself, why does that matter?  Well, larger national solar companies are based in California, Colorado, and Maryland.  If you’re a Massachusetts homeowner, do you really want to speak to someone in California if your system fails, or would you prefer to talk to someone local?  I would go with the local person who can more quickly send someone out to diagnose and fix the problem.

5.       Can you find reviews?

I have a friend who will never call references.  She says, “Why waste my time on someone who is almost certainly going to say positive things about their experience?  I mean, who would give a bad reference.”  It is a tell-tale sign when a company can’t furnish any references, though.  Solar-Estimate.org, a not for profit and free service, is one of the best review sites for solar installations.  Any professional or company can join the site, but they give their “Pre-Screened Status” to companies who have been in operation for 3 years, have three good professional and customer references in the last 12 months, and have been approved by ContractorCheck.com.  Make sure you look for reviews with a local zip code because you will see those out-of-state submissions grouped in there, especially for the larger national installers.  Out-of-state reviews are not a good indication of what your experience will be like because you will deal with a different sales, service, and installation team.

I’ve touched the surface of the more important questions when making the decision of choosing a PV installer, but next I want to go over what to ask about the equipment and the installation work itself.  Brightstar Solar works with residential and commercial customers in Massachusetts to navigate the installation process and maximize solar financing and incentive opportunities.  If you are interested in learning more about how solar power can offset your electricity demand for your home or business in Massachusetts, please contact us for a free evaluation of your site.

There’s no question that solar is the right decision socially, environmentally, and financially, but most would say it is not accessible to the larger population because of the huge investment required.   There aren’t many people who have this type of cash on hand and, even if they do, they may want to use it for other things.  I’m pleased to say solar power is a little more accessible to the average person with the introduction of a zero down solar lease.

Since solar leasing started in Massachusetts in mid-2010, it has favorably increased the number of systems installed within the state.  This is similar to the phenomenon that happened in California.  The National Renewable Energy Laboratory recently did a study on “The Transformation of Southern California’s Residential Photovoltaics Market Through Third-Party Ownership.”  The study found that rather than eating away at traditionally purchased systems, leasing is opening up a whole new demographic to solar – a middle-income household with less than $150k.

Most solar leases are structured as a 20 year term, with flat or escalating monthly payments.  At the end of the lease term, you have the option to buy the system at its residual value, sign a new lease with new equipment, or have the solar panels removed at no cost.  If at any point you want to sell your home, you have the option to transfer the lease to the new homeowner or prepay the remaining lease payments.

During the lease period, system maintenance, insurance, and performance are guaranteed giving homeowners peace of mind.  If your system falls short of the electricity specified in the service agreement, you will be paid the difference.  If your modules or inverters fail, they will be replaced and repaired at no expense to you.  If your equipment is damaged or stolen, they are covered by the lessor.

With a $0 down solar lease in Massachusetts, customers will see savings in the first year of the lease and will enjoy greater savings in future years with locked in energy payments as electricity prices rise.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed Massachusetts installer for residential and commercial projects.  With options such as a zero down lease or a low-interest loans, we help homeowners make investing in solar a reality.  Our company offers a no-obligation solar estimate so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.

Massachusetts announced changes to the Commonwealth Solar Rebate program going forward.  Specifically, these changes will go in effect for Block 9 and 10 of the program for the first half of 2012.

MAJOR CHANGES:

- More Funding = More Rebates for Solar Projects

The next two installments of the program will each have a $1.5 million of funding, up from $1 million in funding in 2010.

- Average Rebates Will be Smaller Than 2010

The new rebate levels for Block 9 and 10 are as follows:

Base Incentive – $0.40 per watt (DC @ STC)

Massachusetts Company Components Adder – $0.05 per watt (DC @ STC)

Moderate Home Value Adder OR Moderate Income Adder – $0.40 per watt (DC @ STC)

Disaster Relief  Adder – $1.00 per watt (DC @ STC)

NOTE: Rebates are calculated on the first 5 kW of capacity

- All Projects under 15 kW May ApplyAlthough incentive levels are reduced, the solar electric industry has seen a large drop in equipment prices.  This has allowed the return of the investment to remain the same as last year while increasing the number of projects that the solar rebate can fund.   A rebate block is available until the end of the calendar quarter or when its funds are exhausted.  As a Massachusetts solar installer, I was seeing these blocks of funds dry up in a matter of weeks.  Now, I’m hopeful the adjustment will bring increased stability to the rebate program.

In Block 7 and 8 any residential project (no matter the size) and any commercial project under 10 kW were eligible for rebates.  The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) has now ruled that any project  below 15 kW, no matter if is commercial, residential, or public, may apply under the solar rebate program.  Not many commercial PV projects were funded by the rebate program last year because of the 10 kW cap.  Perhaps a few more applications were roll in based on the change.

- Add-on Rebates Are Available

In the past, add-on rebates were not available under the program.  They are now available for projects where the initial capacity was below 5 kW.  For example, if a customer previously received a Commonwealth Solar II rebate for 3kW of capacity on a system, they would be eligible to install an additional 15kW of capacity, but only 2kW of capacity would be eligible to receive a rebate, bringing the total rebated capacity to 5kW.

- Projects Are on a Per Property Basis

Rebates are accepted on a per property basis, no longer on a per building (or per ground-mounted system) basis. If a customer is looking to install a photovoltaic project that will span multiple buildings or ground-mounted systems on their property, they will submit one application to the rebate program.

- Disaster Relief Adder  

In all honesty, I think the Disaster Relief Adder was available for Block 8.  To qualify, the solar installation must be located in one of the eleven communities officially affected by the June 1, 2011 tornado in Western Massachusetts. The eligible communities are: Brimfield, Charlton, Hampden, Monson, Palmer, Southbridge, Springfield, Sturbridge, West Springfield, Westfield, and Wilbraham.  The homeowner must also have official documentation from FEMA, MEMA, or an insurance company documenting damage from the tornado (or other back-up information reasonably requested by MassCEC).

- Community Solar

I don’t have the MassCEC’s official definition of a community solar project, but my understanding is a condominium building may be a good representation.  Previously, a commercial project (or residential project with 3 or more units) was calculated on a per building basis – one rebate for one building.  Leveraging the MassCEC’s community solar classification, each member-host customer’s portion is capped at 15 kW.  Installers must contact Commonwealth Solar to discuss a Community Solar project in advance of submitting an application.

If want to learn more about the newest block of Massachusetts solar rebates, our team can help guide you through the new program.  Rebates are just one of many incentives available for businesses and homeowners in Massachusetts.  Rebates are not available for do-it-yourself projects and you will have to involve a solar professional to qualify.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed Massachusetts solar installer with experience working with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.  Please reach out to us if you’re interested in a complimentary solar evaluation and free estimate for your home or business.

Residents who have installed a solar electric, or photovoltaic, installation in Massachusetts in 2011 should begin effectively planning for their federal and state tax returns.  As an installer, our job doesn’t end once we complete construction.  We like to be a trusted resource for our customers and make sure that they have a great experience throughout the entire lifecycle.  I have assembled a guide for the various tax-planning considerations for Massachusetts PV installations completed in 2011.

Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit– Please see IRS Form 5695 and Instructions: Residential Energy Credits – This is a personal federal tax credit for residential installations where a taxpayer may claim a credit of 30% on qualified solar electric expenditures on a dwelling used as a residence by the taxpayer.  Record the full qualified solar expenditures on Line 15 of Page 2 of IRS Form 5695.  You will be calculating 30% of this figure to determine your tax credit.

Massachusetts Renewable Energy Income Tax Credit - Please see Schedule EC: Solar and Wind Energy Credit – This is a personal tax credit for the state of Massachusetts that provides a 15% tax credit against the state income tax for the cost of your photovoltaic system less any state or municipal rebates received.  The tax credit is capped at $1,000.  Record your qualified solar expenditures on Line 1 of Page 1 of this form.  Enter any rebates received on Line 2.  Even though you will calculate 15% of the fully invoiced amount less the rebate, the maximum tax credit you can receive is $1,000.

Commonwealth Solar II Rebate – If you received a rebate from the MassCEC, they will also be sending you a Form 1099 for the rebate amount.  Please consult with a tax professional or accountant on how he or she would like to handle this event.

Solar Renewable Energy Credits – Many people ask about the tax treatment of SREC income.  Please refer to our previous blog post, “Are SREC Payments Taxable“

Property Tax Exemption – I also urge customers to pay close attention to their 2012 and 2013 property tax bill.  “Massachusetts law provides that solar-energy systems and wind-energy systems used as a primary or auxiliary power system for the purpose of heating or otherwise supplying the energy needs of taxable property are exempt from local property tax for a 20-year period,” taken from the General Laws of Massachusetts. When we pull the building permit, we inform the town that the expenditure is for a solar panel installation.  However, it is the town’s responsibility to properly record this improvement with a tax exemption for the next 20 years.

Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts.  We work with residential, commercial, and public customers to maximize incentives, navigate the installation process, and complete grant and rebate paperwork.  Please reach out to us you are interested in a complimentary solar evaluation of your business or home in Massachusetts.

If you live in Massachusetts and are in interested in powering your home with solar energy, you are in luck.  With all the generous incentives available through Massachusetts and the federal government, it has never been a better time to make the investment.  However, solar typically requires a large upfront cash outlay; money most people don’t have readily available. Financing is one of the biggest hurdles to solar adoption in the state.  Find out ways some of our customers have secured this funding.

Financing Methods for Upfront Purchase:

1. Home Equity Line of Credit – Home equity is the cheapest and most popular method of financing for a PV installation.  With prices as low as 3% and the payback of a solar electric system being relatively quick (4 to 6 years), it makes sense for those with equity in their homes.
2. Upfront SREC Option – Aggregators are willing to give you an upfront cash payment in exchange for selling the value of your Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) over the next 10 years.  For an average sized system, this would be about $6,250 that you can use toward your solar investment.
3. Refinance Existing Mortgage – Mortgage rates are at an all-time low.  If you haven’t already done so, it might be a good time to refinance your mortgage, adding the solar expenditures.
4. Same-as-Cash Financing – This type of unsecured financing offers 6 month or 12 month 0% interest financing, up to $45,000.  This allows customers waiting on next year’s tax refunds to fund a project now with no interest and no payments.
5. Low-interest Energy Loans – Through our partnership with a local bank, we can help facilitate secured and unsecured home improvement loans over a 5 to 20 year terms with rates as low as 6.95% with no prepayment penalty.  This is a good choice those who do not have a large amount of equity in their homes.

You don’t have to own the system to enjoy the benefits of clean energy.  Many of our customers decide a solar lease or a power purchase agreement (PPA) structure is a better fit for them.  With this type of structure, system maintenance, insurance, and performance are guaranteed by the lease company. Through a PPA, a customer can make low, monthly payments (oftentimes lower than their electric bill) over 15 or 20 years with a zero down option.  Alternatively, a customer can choose a prepaid PPA where they make a large, upfront payment at a discounted rate.

Brightstar Solar is a Massachusetts solar installer that can help you find the most appropriate method to fund a PV system.  Through our contacts, we can connect you with low-interest loans and creative leasing options.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed solar installer.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.

I’m sure you recognize the very famous Hollywood sign, but most people forget about the home next to the sign that sneaks in to almost every photograph.  What is that on the roof?  Yes, they are solar photovoltaic panels you see, and people are seeing them on more of their favorite places to visit.  Even the White House will soon don solar electric and thermal technology.

Between Christmas and New Year’s, many solar installers and manufacturers close their doors to enjoy a much needed break.  Jon and I took a trip to California to escape the cold and visit with family. It has been two years since we were last in the state, and it seems that PV has reached a critical mass.  Something we hope Massachusetts can achieve in the next 5 years.  Atop the Hollywood Hills, we could see for miles and spotted at least a dozen homes within view with solar panels.  Everywhere we looked, we couldn’t stop pointing to different installations.  To us, this was true beauty.

The Solar Energy Industries Association announced that 1,000 MW of new PV capacity was created through the third quarter of 2011, with fourth quarter results expected to be even more impressive.  This has surpassed the 887 MW of solar capacity created in all of 2010.  California still remains at the top of this list, capturing 44% of all solar installations done within the country through Q3.  The next six states with the largest market share, including Massachusetts, secured 45% of market share.  All eyes are on Massachusetts as one of the states to watch for 2012.

Brightstar Solar is a Massachustts solar installer that works with residential, commercial, and public customers to navigate the installation process and maximize solar financing and incentive opportunities.  If you are interested in learning more about how solar power can offset your electricity demand in your home or business in Massachusetts, please contact us for a free evaluation of your site.

We had the pleasure of attending the Enphase Energy Road Show at Babson College in Wellesley, MA yesterday.  Enphase had exciting news to deliver with the announcement of their next generation M215 microinverters which allow for greater flexibility, better performance, and a faster installation – what’s not to like!  The new M215’s will start shipping in June, but solar installers are encouraged to put in their order now. 

All photovoltaic solar installations require an inverter which gathers the Direct Current (DC) produced by the photovoltaic solar (PV) array and converts it to Alternating Current (AC) which can be used in the home.  Traditionally, most PV systems have a single monolithic inverter, or a central inverter dedicated to the entire array, with SMA, Solectria, PV Powered, or Fronius being the premier players.

Enphase pioneered microinverter technology for each module and made it commercially viable.  The idea for microinverters came from the need to address partial shade.  With traditional inverters, shading can dramatically cut the production of electricity because the solar cell with the least illumination dictates the operating current for all the cells wired in that series.  People in the solar industry relate partial shading to kinking in a garden hose. The narrowed opening allows a smaller portion of water through. Similarly, shading can create a disproportionate decline in electricity production.  Using the same example, microinverters allow each module to be a separate hose, minimizing production loss.

Microinverters have other advantages.  They tolerate modules that are installed at different pitches and azimuths, rather than requiring multiple central inverters.  Microinverters also allow for a single point of failure and allow for module level monitoring.  In addition, they can be a less expensive option for smaller residential PV installations (under 2 -3 kW). 

At the road show, we were able to see Enphase’s M215 microinverters in action.

Things we like:

-          Higher power output to work with 260-watt 60-cell modules

-          Better performance in lower light conditions

-          96% CEC weighted efficiency which compares to traditional inverters

-          Lighter (1 lb less) allowing for  single mounting bolt and faster installation

-          Simpler cabling – installers cut and splice cable to length

-          Up to 17 modules per 20 Amp branch circuit (up to 4.42 kW)

-          Thinner profile (1 inch thickness)

Things we don’t like:

-          Not compatible with 72-cell modules, but M190 microinverters are still available to serve this segment, although scaled back in production.

Brightstar Solar has been using Enphase microinverters in our installations for the last two years and we believe it is an excellent product. We keep abreast of the latest technologies and how to incorporate them in existing projects.  Brightstar Solar can help you make clean, green solar electricity and do your part to reduce greenhouse gases in Massachusetts.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed Massachusetts solar installer.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.

In late March, Hudson Light & Power Department announced a rebate for residential, commercial, and municipal customers who install a grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) system.  The Hudson Light service territory includes both Hudson, MA and Stow, MA.  Coupled with the other generous incentives offered by the state of Massachusetts and the federal government, the HLPD rebate makes solar power a very attractive investment in this municipality.

The Hudson Light rebate is only available on photovoltaic solar installations and does not include solar thermal (or solar hot water) projects.  There are a few other municipal light plants, like Ipswich and Marblehead that offer a solar rebate, but their programs are restricted to only residential projects.  Hudson’s solar rebate program is available for solar installations at commercial, industrial, residential, non-profits, schools, agricultural, and institutional facilities.

The rebate incentive is equal to $1 per watt DC with a $5,000 maximum incentive for residential projects and a $10,000 maximum incentive for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects.  Funding is limited and capped, therefore subject to availability.  The program can be modified or terminated at any time and without prior notice.  Approved rebate applications have 12 months to complete construction or the rebate will be revoked.

System owners will retain ownership of all Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) generated by PV system.    According to the program details, inverters must be certified to meet the most current edition of the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Standard.  In addition, solar panels must have a 20-year power warranty and must have UL1741 certification.

The solar PV rebate from Hudson Light is only one out of many incentives that are offered for Massachusetts solar installations.  Rebates are not available for “do-it-yourself” projects and installations must be completed by professional, licensed solar contractors.  Please talk to a Massachusetts solar installer, such as Brightstar Solar, to schedule a free evaluation to determine if solar power is right for your home or business.

Although regional and state incentive programs may have varying Ievels of licensing and technical requirements to perform photovoltaic (PV) solar work, there is one voluntary certification program that provides a national standard of excellence for industry professionals.  The certification has come to be known as the most meaningful credential a solar energy professional can achieve.  NABCEP, or the North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals, administers PV installer credentialing as well as certification programs for small wind and solar thermal. 

In order to obtain the PV certification, applicants must meet experience prerequisites and a pass a rigorous exam encompassing PV system design, installation, safety, project management, maintenance, troubleshooting, etc.  It is important for potential customers to note that NABCEP also has a PV Entry Level program that tests the fundamentals of a PV system.  This is different from the PV Installer certification because the entry level program does not include an experience component and the exam is less demanding.   

There are 100 NABCEP certified PV Installers in New England as of May 19, 2011, but here is a breakdown of the number of NABCEP PV installers by state:

Massachusetts – 59

Connecticut – 13

Rhode Island – 5

New Hampshire – 6

Maine – 17

Of the more than 14 million people living in New England, only 100 have obtained the NABCEP certification.  This is an elite list of industry professionals that have the credentials to be a project manager on a residential or commercial PV project.

NABCEP PV Installer certification is tied to individuals rather than a company.  If you work with a larger solar company, they may have certified installers, but they may not be tied specifically to your project.  Brightstar Solar guarantees at least one NABCEP certified PV installer will be on-site at all times during construction of your system.  We work with residential, commercial, and public customers in Massachusetts and Connecticut to navigate the installation process and maximize solar financing and incentive opportunities.  If you are interested in learning more about how solar power can offset your electricity demand for your home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut, please contact us for a free evaluation of your site.

It’s been awhile since we’ve had a chance to update our Bay State customers about local incentives.  Massachusetts remains one of the top places in the country to make a solar power investment.  The reason the state ranks high is its strong political support for PV incentives and favorable net metering and interconnection regulations. 

Here is a short rundown of the latest and greatest happening with residential solar power incentives in the state:

1. Block 6 of the Commonwealth Solar II rebate is now open – Block 5 of the Commonwealth Solar II Rebate program ended on March 24^th.  A new block of funds are available and the MassCEC is accepting new applications for residential and commercial projects (under 10 kW).  The state-funded program is open to customers of the Ashburnham, Holden, Holyoke, Russell, and Templeton Municipal Light plants and the following utility companies: Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light (Unitil), National Grid, NSTAR Electric, and Western Massachusetts Electric.  The state has allotted about $1 million in rebate incentives to be available per quarter.  A rebate block will end when funds are exhausted or the quarter has ended, whichever happens first. I anticipate that Block 6 will be overfunded by late May/early June based on the enormous growth of installations in the state.  Block 7 will likely open in early to mid-July timeframe. 
2. Chinese-made Evergreen solar modules do not qualify for the Massachusetts company adder –The Commonwealth Solar II Rebate program offers a $0.10 per watt incentive for the first 5 kW if a project uses components from a Massachusetts company.  It may not seem significant, but for a 5 kW system, this would be $500.  To qualify for this additional rebate, you must provide proof that the solar (PV) panels, the inverter(s), or another component that is important to the electricity production is manufactured by a company with a significant Massachusetts presence.  Evergreen Solar, who previously had manufacturing operations in Devens, MA, has now moved its production facilities to China.  Customers can only receive the adder given if they can show proof the Evergreen solar panels were purchased before March 31, 2011.
3. Alternative Compliance Payment for 2011 has decreased – The 2011 Alternative Compliance Payment for Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) fell from $600/MWh to $550/MWh.  The price of Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in Massachusetts is based on market availability. The Solar Credit Clearinghouse Auction essentially creates the price floor because they will purchase any SRECS that cannot be sold on the open market for $300/MWh minus a 5% administrative charge, or $285/MWh.  If electricity suppliers fall short of their SREC requirement for their RPS obligation, they will have to pay an Alternative Compliance Payment (ACP), or a penalty of $550/MWh.  This is how we get to the price ceiling because the market value of SRECs will never be greater than that penalty.  SREC aggregators, who are closest to the market, believe that electricity suppliers will not meet their 2011 solar carve-out requirements and Massachusetts SREC prices should remain above $500.
4. Reading Municipal Light Offers Renewable Energy Rebate – I just found out about a renewable energy rebate for residential customers of the Reading Municipal Light Department, including homeowners in Reading, North Reading, Lynnfield, and Wilmington.  The base incentive for the program is $1 per watt and can reach up to $2.50 per watt ( $5,000 max).  Other light companies with active municipal solar rebate programs include Ipswich, Marblehead, Taunton, Concord, and Chicopee.

If you are a Massachusetts homeowner who is looking to install solar power on your home, you are able to receive federal and state tax credits, state rebate incentives, property and sales tax exemptions, and a production-based incentive called Solar Renewable Energy Credits.  Rebates are not available for “do-it-yourself” projects and installations must be completed by licensed Massachusetts solar contractors.  Please contact Brightstar Solar to schedule a free evaluation to determine if you have good site for solar power and find out about the wide range of incentives available to you.

Today marks the 41^st anniversary for Earth Day.  It’s hard to believe the holiday has been in existence for four decades and we still haven’t figured out this sustainability thing!

Most people thing that the problem is bigger than them, but if we all did our small part, we would be well on our way.  Don’t get caught in the shuffle.  Forget about the past and start today by making smart choices.  As a solar installer, we tell our customers that their energy strategy must start with efficiency.  I’d like to share some advice on creating a better energy strategy for your Massachusetts home:

1. Get a Mass Save Energy Assessment – Utility companies in the state, such as Bay State Gas Company, The Berkshire Gas Company, Cape Light Compact, National Grid, New England Gas Company, NSTAR, Unitil, and Western Massachusetts Electric Company, have funded a wide range of energy efficiency programs that can lower your ongoing monthly costs almost immediately.  You can start learning about the programs available to you by signing up for a free Mass Save energy assessment.
2. Seal air leaks around doors and windows. If you complete a Mass Save energy assessment and have what is considered to be a “leaky” house, they will send a team to seal these leaks at no cost.  I know because they did this at my home.
3. Add insulation. Most homes lack proper insulation which means money is wasted heating and cooling costs.  A Mass Save energy auditor will measure your current insulation and give you recommendations on additional improvements.  If you move forward on a suggested insulation project, you could qualify for a 75% rebate up to $2,000.  That’s right, you could be paying as little as 25% of the cost.
4. Turn off lights when you’re not using them and use CFL and LEDs whenever possible. Did you know that lighting can account for 10 to 20% of your electricity usage?  Simple ideas like changing your usage habits and using energy efficient bulbs will equal big savings over time.
5. Look for Energy Star appliances. Major appliances, like your refrigerator, washer, and dryer, make up a large portion of electricity demand.  When buying new appliances, be sure to pay attention to energy labels in addition to the price tag.  For example, our energy efficient refrigerator uses on average the same amount of electricity as leaving a 60-watt incandescent bulb on all day.  Pretty impressive, right?
6. Invest in SOLAR! It can be the gift that keeps giving.  With rebates, tax incentives, and Solar Renewable Energy Credits in Massachusetts, a solar installation can be one of the best investments you make.  You will be saving money long after the panels are paid for.  With quickly escalating energy costs, it’s often a no-brainer.

Brightstar Solar can help you make clean, green solar electricity and do your part to reduce greenhouse gases in Massachusetts.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed Massachusetts solar installer.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) will no longer be accepting applications for Block 5 of the Commonwealth Solar II (CSII) program.  The CSII program provides rebates for residential and small commercial photovoltaic solar installations in Massachusetts and is expected to continue for the rest of the calendar year.  With the introduction of Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) marketplace at the beginning of last year, Massachusetts is now one of the best places to make a solar investment in the country.

The announcement of the rebate shutdown was made on March 24^th and the MassCEC anticipates details of Block 6 should be released in early April and applications will be accepted soon after.  The state has allotted about $1 million in rebate incentives to be available per quarter.  A rebate block will end when funds are exhausted or the quarter has ended, whichever happens first. 

The rebate levels for Block 6 will be the same as Block 5:

Base Incentive – $0.75 per watt (DC @ STC)

Massachusetts Company Components Adder – $0.10 per watt (DC @ STC)

Moderate Home Value Adder OR Moderate Income Adder – $0.85 per watt (DC @ STC) 

Interest in Massachusetts for solar installations has peaked now that the weather improved, and funding will go quick.  If you are interested in pursuing a solar installation this summer, it’s best that you secure a contract with an installer in the near future due to delays in the rebate application process.  In addition, most PV installers have a backlog of work to complete from the winter months.

It’s a great time to invest in a solar power in Massachusetts.  Rebates are not available for “do-it-yourself” projects and installations must be completed by professional, licensed solar contractors.  Brightstar Solar is an expedited Massachusetts solar installer with experience working with the Mass Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) solar rebate programs.  Please reach out to us if you’re interested in a complimentary solar evaluation and free estimate for your home or business.

Solar energy adoption was red hot in the United States last year.  In fact, solar saw the highest growth of any energy sector in the country.   According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)’s 2010 Year in Review, grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) installations saw a banner year with installations growing 878 MW even with through the troubling economic climate.   

Despite seeing the installed solar capacity in the United States double in 2010, the US lost market share globally from 6.5% in 2009 to 5% in 2010.  This is because of explosive growth of PV in Europe, specifically Italy and Germany.   While the US PV market grew to 102% in 2010, the global installed capacity grew by 130%.  In coming years, US PV installations are expected to keep this pace, while the world market is likely to slow down.

Of the 878 MW of PV installed in the US, 45% were for non-residential installations (including commercial, non-profit, and public projects) and the remaining portion was divided equally between utility and residential solar installations.  Non-residential installations saw a spike due to cheaper component prices and incentives, such as a cash grant in lieu of the federal tax credit and depreciation benefits. 

The states that saw the largest activity in 2010 include (in descending order):

1. California
2. New Jersey
3. Nevada
4. Arizona
5. Colorado
6. Pennsylvania
7. New Mexico
8. Florida
9. North Carolina
10. Texas

The states mentioned above encompass 85% of the country’s total installed solar capacity.  Massachusetts and Connecticut, who were part of the top 10 last year, were edged out this year.  What’s most interesting is that four states above are new to the top 10 list, including Nevada, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and Texas.  California, who owns 80% of market share, is expected to see installation growth taper as its CSI rebate incentive dries up.  Incentives are a large, if not the largest, factor in the growth of installed solar capacity. 

Demand for PV in the United States will continue to be high in 2011.  I believe the US market may be the one to watch next year.  Brightstar Solar is a solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut.  We work with residential, commercial, and public customers to navigate the installation process and maximize solar financing and incentive opportunities.  If you are interested in learning more about how solar power can offset your electricity demand in your home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut, please contact us for a free evaluation of your site.

We had relayed the disappointing news of Evergreen Solar shutting down its Devens manufacturing facility a couple months ago.  While the company continues to operate its headquarters in Marlborough, MA and its high temperature filament plant in Michigan, Evergreen decided to close the Devens plant and accelerate production in China.

The determination was made in order to streamline manufacturing and cut expenses.  With high labor costs and less government incentives in the US, many solar energy companies are forced to move manufacturing overseas to remain competitive.  According to Evergreen’s press release, the elimination of the Devens manufacturing facility will disturb 800 jobs, but will help conserve cash and reinforce expansion of its wafer technology.

 The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) has now made a decision on how Evergreen’s move to China will affect rebates to residential and commercial customers.  Currently, Massachusetts residents and businesses can take advantage of an additional discount on their solar electric system if it incorporates components from a Massachusetts company.  The extra incentive is $0.10 per watt for the first 5 kW (on an up to 10 kW PV system).  It may not seem significant, but on a 5 kW system this would be $500.  To qualify for this additional rebate, you must provide proof that the solar (PV) panels, the inverter(s), or another component that is important to the electricity production is manufactured by a company with a significant Massachusetts presence.  This is determined at the sole discretion of the MassCEC.  Evergreen Solar is one of only six companies, including Schott Solar, Satcon, Solectria Renewables, Beacon Power, and PanelClaw, that qualify. 

According to an email sent from the MassCEC yesterday, projects that incorporate Evergreen Solar modules that submit project completion paperwork by March 31, 2011 will automatically qualify for the Massachusetts Company Components adder.  If paperwork is submitted on or after April 1, 2011, the adder will only be given if Evergreen solar panels are purchased before March 31, 2011.  Purchase documentation will be required in order to verify this requirement.  Your solar contractor can guide you through this change, or you can contact the MassCEC directly if you have additional questions.

A rebate is one of many incentives available for Massachusetts solar installations.  If you’re thinking about adding solar panels to your Massachusetts home or business, rebates are not available for do-it-yourself projects.  You must involve a solar professional to qualify.  A Massachusetts solar installer, such as Brightstar Solar, can help you determine if you have the right site to generate solar power and talk about the broad range of incentives available for your installation.  Contact us now for a complimentary evaluation and free estimate!

Three solar companies in Massachusetts were awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative to be used toward research and innovation.   The SunShot Initiative is the national effort to reduce the cost of utility scale solar installations by 75% in the next decade.  The DOE plans to reach this goal by providing grants to companies that help make solar energy cost competitive with other energy sources.

The three Bay State companies who will receive DOE funds include 1336 Technologies, Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, and Veeco Instruments.  Massachusetts has long been known as a hub for biotech and information technology. Thanks to strong political support for renewables and energy efficiency and being located near leading colleges and universities, the state is emerging as one of the hottest areas for energy innovation.  

1366 Technologies, a Lexington, MA based company, received $3M from the Department of Energy.  The mission of 1366 Tech is to cut the cost of solar power and increase the efficiency of solar cell production by eliminating two steps in the traditional manufacturing process.  Executives have said that the technology should be available commercially next year.

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates (VSEA), headquartered in Gloucester, MA, will be using the $4.8M grant they are given towards research and development of interdigitated back contact (IBC) cells, currently the most efficient silicon cells available on the market.  Solar cells traditionally have metal collectors on the front surface which blocks sunlight, thereby lowering efficiency.  Varian manufactures IBC solar cells with metallic conductors on the underside to absorb the energy generated by sunlight.

Veeco Instruments, Inc. was able to secure $4.8M in funding to manufacture cost effective Copper, Indium, Gallium, Selenium (CIGS) solar cells.  Varian, located in Lowell, MA, will use the endowment to accelerate commercialization of CIGS deposition fabrication systems. 

I’m proud to live in a state well positioned for the new energy economy.  Not only is Massachusetts home to some of the most innovative solar companies, the Bay State is committed to lower carbon emissions by 25% below 1990 levels in the next 10 years.  Brightstar Solar can help you make clean, green solar electricity and do your part to reduce greenhouse gases in Massachusetts.  We keep abreast of the latest technologies and how to incorporate them in existing projects.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed Massachusetts solar installer.  Please contact us online or at 617-564-0050 to schedule an appointment.

Last November, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) introduced the PowerSaver Loan which provides low-cost loans for energy retrofits of single family homes.  The two-year pilot program will provide borrowers with  up to $25,000 for certain energy improvements, including solar panels, insulation, duct sealing, doors and windows, HVAC systems, water heaters, and geothermal systems.  The program is unique because it does not impose energy rating restrictions or a requirement for an energy audit.  Some say it could be a replacement for PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing) which has been on hold since the FHFA issued a statement citing serious concerns about the program.

FHA Commissioner David H. Steven, said, “PowerSaver provides lenders with a new product option to serve a potentially growing market.”  The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development hopes that they will fund 24,000 loans totaling up to $300 million in its two year term.  In addition, the FHA will provide $25 million in grants to incent lenders to participate in the program and pass on savings to borrowers. 

A few details have been released about how PowerSaver loans would work, but FHA guidelines have yet to be published.   THE FHA would insure up to 90% of the loan and the lender is responsible for the remaining 10%.  Homeowners can qualify for a total of $25,000 in FHA Title 1 financing for a 15 or 20 year term.  In addition, no mortgage or deed of trust is required if they borrow $7,500 or less, which means much lower closing costs.  Interest rates have yet to be set, although we hear they will be competitive.  One of the nicest features of this new loan is you can deduct interest on your annual tax return.

In the pilot program, homeowners must meet high credit standards and other restrictions, including a 660 or higher credit score with a maximum of 45% debt-to-income ratio.  Loans will only be given to detached single-family homes.  Since this is a new program, a list of lenders hasn’t been released.  If you are interested in a PowerSaver loan, the FHA has announced that it will restrict the amount of lenders and the communities where the program will be available.  Please speak with your bank to see if this is a program they will offer in the future.

The FHA’s PowerSaver loan sounds like a great new way to finance a home solar project.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut.  We work with residential, commercial, and public customers to navigate the installation process and maximize solar financing and incentive opportunities.  Please reach out to us you are interested in a complimentary solar evaluation of your home, business, or institution in Massachusetts or Connecticut.

In a report released by Pike Research, 75% of Americans surveyed said they are interested in Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing programs.  PACE is a financing arrangement run by a municipality where energy retrofits are paid through an annual special tax on the homeowner’s property tax bill, typically repaid over 15 or 20 years.  63% of those polled were most interested in using this type of financing for solar panels or tankless water heaters.   

What is unique about PACE is that it allows energy retrofits to be attached to the home, not the borrower.  Many homeowners don’t want to make the commitment for solar or towards energy efficiency because they aren’t sure how long they will be in their home.  If for some reason, the homeowner has to move before he recovers the project cost, the liability (and benefits) will be passed on to the future owners.  In addition, these improvements usually require a large cash outlay upfront.  PACE gives a lot of flexibility by spreading that cost. 

The earliest PACE program was introduced in Berkeley, California and was called the “Berkeley FIRST” program.  Berkeley completed the pilot program in November 2009, approving and completing thirteen solar installation projects. The program achieved great recognition.  In just two years, twenty-four states have passed legislation that would allow municipalities to create PACE programs, including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin. The program even garnered the Vice President’s attention.  Joe Biden pitched to make Berkeley FIRST available nationwide and funded through the Recovery Act.  This, however, was never sent to Congress or signed in to law. First, PACE will have to deal with other adversaries, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and their regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).

On July 6^th 2010, Fannie and Freddie issued lender guidance letters that said PACE was incompatible with their mortgages.   Until further clarification is made, all PACE programs have come to a halt around the country.  Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are resisting PACE programs because they are concerned about its implication on customers’ existing mortgages. The debt from PACE would be considered senior to existing debt.  This means that if a homeowner defaults on their loans, they would first take care of their annual PACE obligation before they pay any of their mortgage.  Property tax assessments have always been deemed senior to home mortgages, but this was before homeowners could use assessments for energy improvements. 

This has ignited a fury from government officials and the general public alike.  The argument is that energy improvements have a short payback period and will be cash positive immediately – utility savings should outweigh increases to property assessments.  If anything, proponents of PACE believe that homeowners who opt for these retrofits should be even better positioned to pay their mortgage.  In my opinion, PACE is one of the most viable ways to increase adoption of renewable energy and energy retrofits by allowing these improvements to be more accessible by the middle class.

Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut.  We keep abreast of developments in solar financing and incentives and will work with our customers to navigate the installation process, maximize their return, and manage the rebate and permitting paperwork involved.  If you have a home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut and are interested in solar power, please contact us for a free evaluation.

In the 2011 State of the Union, President Barack Obama said he envisioned the United States as the first nation to have one million electric cars on the road by 2015.  With two electric cars introduced to the market late last year in limited supply, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt, statisticians are skeptical that it will happen.  In order to meet the goal, we must have the infrastructure in place to support the technology shift, including access to electric charging stations. 

The President hopes to support his target by cutting subsidies to fossil fuels.  The public can infer this will make the price of gasoline higher, which, in turn, will make electric vehicles more attractive.  Most pumps around the nation have already risen to more than $3 per gallon, while Europeans have been paying close to $7 a gallon in recent years.  The initial investment in an electric vehicle is more than a gas-powered car, but buyers should look at the total cost of ownership.  Experts say charging an electric vehicle can cost $3 per 100 miles while filling a gas tank will cost $9 per 100 miles.

We are seeing significant support from the government in promoting EV adoption.  Buyers of electric cars will qualify for $7500 in federal tax credits and states can offer additional incentives toward the purchase price.  The federal government has also allotted $2.4B in R&D funding for electric vehicle batteries.  Finally, the Vice President is rekindling a $200M grant opportunity for 30 chosen communities as pilot programs for electric vehicle adoption. 

As the number of electric cars on the road grows, charging stations will be needed to provide energy for this new fleet.  Carports, utilizing solar panels, seem to be an obvious choice for supplementing electricity demand by supplying clean, green energy.  Vehicles can easily pull up and plug in to the electric charging station and any excess solar energy can be sent to be used in a nearby home or business.  Solar carports have a double benefit, by decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels and locking in a reasonable price for electricity.    

Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut that can help you construct a solar carport for your home or business.  We enable our customers to make their own sustainable energy safely, dependably, and with an attractive return on investment.  Please contact us if you’re interested in a free solar evaluation in Massachusetts or Connecticut to determine your site’s viability to generate solar power.

When you make an investment in solar panels, most people assume that they will generate power for the next 20 to 30 years.  In recent years, reports of solar panel theft are becoming common in communities in California and Colorado, although still rare in most parts of the country.  To many, safeguarding their solar investment has become a priority.

Solar insurance providers have seen the incidence of theft move at the same rate as installed solar capacity.  Typically, panels aren’t stolen from roof-mounted residential solar installations.  Burglars are usually too lazy to go on a homeowner’s roof to unclamp solar modules.  With most roofs being 35 to 45 degrees on the east coast, it’s also dangerous work at night.

As a homeowner, the best way to protect your investment is to insure your solar panels with your home’s policy.  Make sure your solar installer also gives you a list of serial numbers for your equipment.  If your modules are stolen, you can report that information to authorities and your insurance company.

Thieves usually go for large ground-mounted commercial installations where it is easy to pick off solar panels without alerting attention.  In California, many wineries are targeted because they are situated in remote locations which aren’t monitored at night.  Burglars often sell the stolen panels on Craigslist or Ebay for a fraction of the cost.

There are a few ways that you can safeguard your investment.  A motion detected light or a fence around the installation is a conventional way to deter thieves.   You can also install security cameras to monitor panels in remote areas.  Using security fasteners is another way to protect your solar panels.  These theft-resistant bolts require special tools to install and remove.  Burglars may get frustrated enough to move on or at least delayed until police arrive.

GridLock Solar Security is one of the vendors that have emerged to deter solar panel theft.  If a panel in an array is disturbed, it will trigger the GridLock alarm and activate a deafening siren.  They offer comprehensive security solutions that make it impossible for burglars to take panels without alerting authorities and damaging equipment.

You should understand all of your risks before you decide on a solar installation for your home or business.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut.  We will work with our customers to navigate the installation process, maximize incentives, and manage the rebate and permitting paperwork involved.  If you have a home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut and are interested in solar power, please contact us for a free evaluation.

Many solar installers in Connecticut forecasted growth in the industry was hinging on the approval of an energy bill that was introduced last year.   After being passed by large margins in the House and Senate, the legislation was eventually vetoed by Governor Jodi Rell, citing that the bill was introduced so late in the session that it “was disrespectful to those who honestly desired to read and deliberate the bill’s provisions” and expressed “deep concerns that the measure would raise utility rates for consumers – not reduce them, as bill sponsors claim.” 

Energy reform encouraged support for energy efficiency and alternative power sources, including solar energy, wind energy, and fuel cells.  There were many specific provisions related to solar.  In fact, Environment Connecticut predicted that these alone would create 300 MW of installed solar capacity statewide.  The legislation introduced a Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) market into the state.    An SREC program in Connecticut could drastically change the economics of an energy project.  Just to give you an example,  SRECs were introduced in Massachusetts last year and cut the payback of a solar electric investment in half. 

The legislation also called for an overhaul of the Department of Public Utility Control which would bring together all state offices dealing with energy policy under one administration renamed the Connecticut Energy and Technology Authority.  It’s most controversial mandate was a 15 percent reduction in the state’s electric utility rates by 2012.   Right now, Connecticut has the highest electricity rates in the domestic United States and this change would have put consumers at the same rates as neighboring states.

Even with disapproval that it was too substantial and all-encompassing, the bill will go back in front of lawmakers mostly as-is.  After removing one provision about separate billing for energy retailers and utilities, retailer suppliers broke from the opposition and are now behind energy reform.  Governor Dan Malloy is known to be a proponent of renewable energy technologies.  As Mayor of Stamford, Malloy supervised the first municipal solar installation in Connecticut.  The new governor also mentioned he would have signed the above Senate Bill into law if he was in his post last year, although he hasn’t commented on supporting the legislation in coming months.

2011 is going to be a great year for solar energy in Connecticut, and it will only get better if SREC legislation is signed into law.  Although SRECs are not currently available in the state, solar power generators can earn some money selling Class I Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).  Brightstar Solar, a licensed Connecticut solar installer, can provide a complimentary evaluation to determine if solar energy would be a viable option for your home or business in Connecticut.  If you decide to move forward, our company will help you complete the necessary paperwork to maximize available incentives for your project.  Please contact us today to schedule your free solar evaluation.

Many people wonder if the manufacturing processes for photovoltaic solar modules and other PV equipment are harmful to the environment or particularly carbon intensive.  There has also been a lot of negative press that photovoltaic solar panels can be toxic to the environment.  Do the benefits of the energy generated from solar panels outweigh the harmful effects of the manufacturing process?

According to NREL (the National Renewable Energy Laboratory), the truth is a PV polycrystalline module will produce enough clean power in about four years to offset the energy required to manufacture it.  You unfortunately have to consume a little energy to save a lot more.  After a module is manufactured and installed, it will be a zero emissions energy source for the rest of its life.  Over a 30 year life expectancy, almost 90% of the energy generated from the solar panel will be pollution free. 

The major manufacturing input of PV modules is silicon, one of the most abundant elements on earth.  It is easily gathered from the top of the earth’s crust and is available all over the world, eliminating the need to transport heavy raw materials. Purifying and crystallizing silicon is the most energy intensive process of manufacturing PV panels.  Energy is also expelled when cutting silicon wafers, processing wafers into cells, and assembling cells into panels.  The industry is moving towards recycling PV modules which will save energy in the reuse of silicon cells and metals.

In regards to the toxicity of solar panels, experts have been discussing the use of chemicals in the manufacturing process.  As a result, the EPA has cited certain panels as toxic and has imposed regulations on employee safety when handling chemicals and the disposal of toxic materials.  This has, in turn, made PV manufacturers more aware of risks and they have implemented standards to make the production safer.

A lot of the negative news you hear about solar is generated from incumbent energy producers.  They want us to believe that our current energy infrastructure is the only logical answer when it is clearly not.  From the first day a PV installation is turned on, it will create clean, green electricity.  And, whatever the system generates will reduce its owner’s need to purchase “dirty” electricity.  An average 5 kW solar electric installation in Massachusetts or Connecticut will produce an equivalent of 10 to 12 barrels of oil each year.  This would save about 10,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, which would be similar to planting 20 mature trees annually or driving your car 7,000 miles less a year.

Brightstar Solar enables our customers to make their own sustainable solar power safely, dependably, and with an attractive return on investment.  Please contact us if you’re interested in a free solar evaluation of your home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut.

Making an investment in solar power is a smart decision, but installing it yourself could be a big mistake.  Most DIYers, who want to take on a solar project, may do it for the learning experience or to save money.  I think it is great that individuals want to get educated about how solar works, but I don’t think they should do that at the expense of their own safety.  Here are a few reasons why you may change your mind about a DIY solar installation:

1. Electrical Work is Dangerous – With the wiring involved in solar electric installations, there is always the risk of electrocution if precautions aren’t taken.  I’m not sure about regulations in other states, but Massachusetts requires that solar electrical work be done by electricians. 
2. DIY Solar May Not Qualify for State Incentives – Most people take on a do-it-yourself solar project because of the cost savings.  They don’t think about the rebates they may be sacrificing if they execute the project by themselves.  States, such as Massachusetts and Connecticut, require that a licensed installer do the work in order to qualify for rebates.
3. DIY Solar May be Ineligible for Grid Interconnection – Most utilities allow renewable energy systems to interconnect to the grid, but impose standards on system design.  A grid-connected PV system allows you to draw power from the grid at night when you are not generating solar energy.  It also allows you to push excess solar power back to the grid during the day if you are generating more than you need.
4. Solar Should be Built to Last – DIYers may not have access to the same high-quality components (panels, inverters, mounting equipment) or the techniques that solar installers generally use.  Systems are designed to be on your roof for 25 or 30 years so quality of the installation and the durability of the equipment are especially important.   
5. An Installer Can Customize Solar for your Needs – Distributors now offer packaged self-installation kits.  These kits don’t offer much flexibility with the design and could offer limited power output.  If you contract the work, the contractor can customize the installation to maximize your roof space for power production. 

Before you proceed with a do-it-yourself solar installation, I recommend you contact a local solar installer in your area.  They can talk about the differences that you expect with DIY project versus a contracted solar installation.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer that will work with our customers to navigate the installation process, maximize incentives, and manage the rebate and permitting paperwork involved.  If you have a home or business in Massachusetts or Connecticut and are interested in solar power, please contact us for a free evaluation.

I’m happy to announce some good news for nonprofits and not-for-profits.  There are finally some solar incentives available for entities that do not pay taxes, including charitable, educational, scientific, religious, and artistic organizations.  Connecticut has opened two very generous grant programs – the On-Site Renewable Distributed Generation program and the ARRA Commercial Solar PV program – that will help make solar a viable option for these groups.

Since nonprofits and not-for-profits are ineligible for the 30% federal tax credit available for residential and commercial installations, it was previously difficult to justify the renewable energy expenditures.  With the new grants available in Connecticut, this levels the playing field and gives these entities a larger motivation to move forward with a solar power project.

ARRA Commercial Solar PV Program – Projects between 50 kW and 200kW AC

This is a state grant program intended for on-site solar power generation.  The payout of the grant will be determined by the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) based on a reasonable time to breakeven compared to purchasing the electricity from the utility.  Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the funding is exhausted.  See the CCEF website for additional details on eligibility and application requirements.  Funding limits for not-for-profit projects for the first 100 kW (PTC) is $4.50 per watt and the next 100 to 200 kW (PTC) is $4.00 per watt.

On-Site Renewable Distributed Generation (OSDG) Program – Projects between 10 kW and 200 kW AC

This is a state grant program for on-site generation projects in CL&P and UI service territories.  The payout of the grant will be determined by the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) based on a reasonable time to breakeven.  To qualify for the current round of funding, proposals must be submitted by February 28th, 2011.  Funding limits for not-for-profit projects for the first 100 kW (PTC) is $4.00 per watt and the next 100 to 200 kW (PTC) is $3.50 per watt.

To give you an idea of how generous these grant programs are, the average installed cost per watt for a U.S. solar project was $7.16 per watt (STC) in 2010according to the Open PV Project.  A not-for-profit project could qualify for one or both grants mentioned above and reduce the upfront cost of a system by 50% to up to 100% potentially.  The grants I mentioned above establish that funding is determined by a reasonable time to breakeven so it’s safe to say that the CCEF won’t fund the entire project.  It will, however, pay for a large portion of the installed cost.

If you’re affiliated with a nonprofit or not-for-profit in Connecticut, I would suggest that you don’t wait to look into solar power for your organization.  The ARRA program will only be available until funding is exhausted and applications for the OSDG program are due by the end of February.  Brightstar Solar is a licensed Connecticut solar installer who can help nonprofits maximize incentives, navigate the installation process, and complete the necessary grant and permitting paperwork.  Please reach out to us for a free solar evaluation and complimentary financial analysis of your site.

Solar panel manufacturers are doing a great job giving consumers a variety of panels to choose from. To some, solar panels are considered a commodity because they are often alike in size, power rating, and quality.  Depending on your preferences, there are slight nuances you can pay attention to like cell type, efficiency, power tolerance, and warranty periods. 

However, it is difficult to do research on your own on which modules are most aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sound, or best suited for certain environmental conditions.  You should discuss your requirements with your solar installer who can suggest panels that will fit your needs.  You will see a lot of good and bad information out there, and the panels you may be reading about may not be commercially available or feasible for your project.  It is your solar installer’s job to educate you about the advantages and disadvantages of one panel versus another.  

There are two resources I want to offer in sorting through the hype:

CSI’s List of Compliant Modules – This is a list of solar modules that meets the California Solar Initiative’s eligibility criteria testing.  Most state rebate programs require that your equipment meet these requirements.  You will see a STC power rating and a PTC power rating for each solar panel that is listed.  STC, or Standard Test Conditions, is the power rating that is measured under laboratory conditions.  PTC, or PV USA Test Conditions, is the power rating under more practical climatic and solar conditions.  For that reason, the power output of PTC will always be lower than STC conditions.  STC and PTC conditions will not account for all “real world” losses due to dust or dirt, temperature loss, DC and AC wire losses, and inverter efficiency.

Solar Design Tool – I think this is the best tool out there for evaluating solar panels.  Did I mention it’s free?  You can’t beat that.  You can select up to 7 different models for a side-by-side comparison of 27 different criteria.  I’m not sure how often new solar modules are added, but I’ve had little trouble finding what I’m looking for.  The only deficiency with the tool is that they are sometimes behind with the “CSI listing” field.  I suggest you go to the previous site to see if a module is CSI compliant.

Brightstar Solar is a licensed solar installer in Massachusetts and Connecticut.  We work with residential, commercial, and public customers to maximize incentives, navigate the installation process, complete grant and rebate paperwork.  Please reach out to us you are interested in a complimentary solar evaluation of your home, business, or institution in Massachusetts or Connecticut.

If you own a home in the Ipswich, Marblehead, Taunton, Concord, or Chicopee, you may be eligible for generous municipal solar rebate incentives.  Massachusetts has a state-funded rebate program but it is only open to customers of the Ashburnham, Holden, Holyoke, Russell, and Templeton Municipal Light plants and the following utility companies: Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light (Unitil), National Grid, NSTAR Electric, and Western Massachusetts Electric.  If you live in one of the other areas I mentioned above, I will outline the general benefits and eligibility requirements for each of the municipal solar rebate programs.

Ipswich – I have confirmed with the Director of the Ipswich program that the solar rebate levels will remain the same for 2011, or until funds are exhausted.  The solar rebate program for Ipwsich is capped at $10,000 per residential customer.  The base rebate is calculated at $2.50 per watt, depending on the equipment used in the solar installation.  There is a $0.50 per watt adder if you use solar panels or an inverter manufactured by a Massachusetts company.

Marblehead – Marblehead’s solar rebate program mirrors the state’s Commonwealth Solar II (CSII) rebate program in both eligibility and incentives.   The rebate is available for photovoltaic solar installations less than or equal to 10 kW, and only offered to residential customers.  Solar rebates are only paid out on the first 5 kW.  For the latest installment of the CSII rebate, the base incentives is $0.75 per watt  and there is an $0.85 per watt adder for meeting Moderate Income or Moderate Home Value requirements and a $0.10 per watt adder if components are used from a Massachusetts manufacturing company.  Thus, the maximum rebate is $1.70 per watt, or $8,500 per system.

Taunton  - The Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant (TMLP) solar rebate is open to residential utility customers in Taunton, Raynham, Berkley, and North Dighton.  The rebate for 2011 will be $2.00 per watt for the first 2.5 kW.  Therefore, the maximum rebate per customer will be $5,000. 

Concord – Concord Light’s solar PV rebate is calculated based on the first 5 kilowatt AC installed.  The rebate is calculated to be $625 per kW of installed rated capacity.  Therefore, the rebate is restricted to $3,125 for a 5 kW (rated capacity) system.

Chicopee – The rebate for photovoltaic solar installations is $2.50 per watt for a maximum of $5,000 per project.  I’m sure you can do the math, but it the rebates are determined based on the first 2 kilowatts.  Chicopee’s solar rebate program is only open to residential customers and is limited to the first 15,000 watts annually – that means only 8 Chicopee homeowners can benefit from the incentive per year so residents need to act fast!

You should keep in mind that a solar rebate is only one out of many incentives that are offered for Massachusetts solar installations.  Between rebates, state and federal tax credits, and Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), there has never been a better time to make a solar investment in the Bay State.  Rebates are not available for “do-it-yourself” projects and installations must be completed by professional, licensed solar contractors.  Please talk to Brightstar Solar to schedule a free evaluation to determine if you have good site for solar power and find out about the wide range of incentives available to you.