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One
of the best investments, especially in these turbulent times is
right under your nose... or, right over your head, as the case may
be. Investing in Solar
power for your home is not only good for the environment, and good
for the new "green economy", but it's closer to
guaranteed payback than any other investment vehicles we know of.
Unless the sun stops shining or the utility lowers it's
rates (we're not sure which of those is more likely) your return
on investment is a sure thing.
The
solar cost equation is ever changing.
We run into people all the time who are sure that solar is
"too expensive" for them or just too expensive period.
While it is true that the typical payback, in purely
economic terms, a few years ago was very long, that's no longer
the case. Today there
are rebates from the utility (in California) and federal tax
credits that substantially reduce the costs.
The net cost of a solar electric system in California is
approximately 50% of the total cost (depending on your location
and utility, etc..) today.
Some
current average costs and benefits of interest:
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Average net cost of an "average size" solar electric
system installed on a home in the Sacramento area: $15,000.
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Average
lifetime payback of an average size solar electric system
installed in Sacramento (SMUD) area: $30,000.
If you live in PG&E or LEU territory the average lifetime
savings is more, and (depending on how much energy your home uses)
can be much more.
Quick
Facts:
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If
you're currently heating your home's water with an electric
water heater, check out solar hot water.
It'll be your best return on investment.
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If
you electric bill is over $100 / month, Solar electric WILL
save you money.
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No
matter what your energy usage, Energy Efficiency WILL save you
money. Make sure
your light bulbs are CFL's, make sure your home has adequate
insulation, and always look for the Energy Star symbol on new
appliance purchases.
For
the do-it-yourselfers out there, Go Solar is pleased to announce
the upcoming launch of it's Go Solar DIY Store.
We'll be selling solar equipment, professional solar
services, and installation consulting at attractive savings
compared to the average installed system cost.
Launching
in April: DIY.GoSolar.coop
Mention
Nakano Realty and we'll give you $200 off of an installed PV
system or $100 off an installed solar hot water system.
Your
local employee-owned solar sales and installation expert,
Rick Kehret
Go
Solar Cooperative Incorporated
P:
916.226.2525
F:
916.685.7382
C:
916.230.6479
rick@GoSolar.coop
www.GoSolar.coop
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