PA Enacts Solar Energy Rebate Program

This is big news! Gov Rendell announced this today:

"Thousands of Pennsylvania homeowners and small business owners eager to slash or even eliminate their electricity bills will be able to install new solar technologies at a discount of up to 45%, thanks to a new program Governor Edward G. Rendell opened today.

The PA Sunshine Solar Program will provide $100 million in rebates to help fund solar electric and hot water projects, reimbursing eligible consumers up to 35 percent of the purchase and installation costs of solar energy technology.

In combination with federal tax credits, consumers could reduce system costs by 45%."

To take advantage of this program, homeowners and small businesses wishing to apply for rebates must first select an installer that has been approved by the Department of Environmental Protection.

The installer will submit all application materials on the consumer’s behalf.

Project approval will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted.

Rebates will be dispersed to the home or small business owner upon completion of the project.

For more information, rebate applications for photovoltaic systems, and to view DEP’s approved solar contractors, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Pa Sunshine.

Solar thermal applications will be available later this week.