GREEN SPACE: Good time to invest (we swear!) in solar

If you're like most Americans, the current times probably have you worried about money. And if you're not, we'd like to check your pulse and/or brain wave patterns.

The recent economic bailout bill doesn't contain much in the way of good news for the average consumer. But there is some good stuff for proponents of solar energy. Although tax credits for installation of solar panels were not made permanent (as many had hoped) they were extended for eight more years.

Good stuff, but it gets even better.

The cap -- that was set at $2,000 for residential installs -- has been lifted. Now a house system could earn up to $10,000 or more in tax credits.

Why go solar? Well, the cost of energy is likely to continue to increase, but once you are generating your own energy, that becomes a moot issue for your pocketbook. It also becomes possible that some day our electric companies will allow customers to sell power into the grid, which can generate income in the future.

Ready to go solar? A great first step is sitting down with a green building consultant that is well-versed in solar. A few local options include Brighton-based The Green Panel, Detroit-based WARM Training, Alternative Power Solutions of Eastpointe and SUR Energy Systems in Ann Arbor.

In the perfect timing department, the Michigan Sustainable Energy Coalition is hosting a conference on Oct. 21 and 22 in Lansing that will delve into the nuts and bolts of alternative energy sources, including laws and tax credits, net metering, installation, etc. Info and registration here.

A solar calculator that gives a rough estimate of your energy needs and the cost of a solar system can be found here. A great Co-op American article on solar water heaters, a good place to start if the whole house is just too daunting, can be found here.

Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh

GREEN SPACE: Good time to invest (we swear!) in solar

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