Here comes the sun

There’s a new spin on the old saying, “when it rains, it pours.” In this case, it’s “when it shines, it produces power!”

Over the last four months, there have been more than 20 new solar systems installed in Maricopa, according to Brad Hinton, a member of of the city’s development services department. “Not sure why, but we’ve seen a real increase in the number of permits being issued,” Hinton said.

During the second week in December, Dallas Paulsen had a solar system put in by Chandler-based Sun Valley Solar Solutions, which was one of seven systems the company installed that week.

For Paulsen, who lives in Rancho El Dorado, putting in a solar system really had no downside. “We had found out about the rebates offered by ED-3,” Paulsen said. “I’m hoping to generate upwards of 75 percent of my power with this system. If you have the resources, I really don’t see any reason not to do this.”

Paulsen said he started researching a solar alternative in September. “We’re just trying to cut back on everyday expenses,” Paulsen said. “Right now, we’re probably averaging between $180 and $200 per month, year round. We figure if we can get $125 per month (from solar), we’re going to be really happy.”

Paulsen said after rebates, the system will end up costing him about $12,000, the cost of which he hopes to recoup in six to eight years. “We plan on staying here a while.”

Another Rancho El Dorado resident, Steve Krebs, was one of the first in Maricopa to have a system installed a few months ago. He also used Sun Valley Solar Solutions.

“Besides saving money, I wanted to do something to get off the grid, something good for the environment,” Krebs said when his panels were installed in September. “I did the calculations, and it made sense to go ahead and make the investment.”

The 5.04 KW system, which will generate 10,080 kilowatt-hours per year, cost Krebs about $35,000. But with alternative-energy incentives offered by ED-3 and the federal government, Krebs said his out-of-pocket cost was about $9,000.  “I estimate the system will pay for itself in about seven years,” Krebs said.

A solar system transforms a home’s electrical meter into a two-way device. When the amount of energy a homeowner uses exceeds the output, the meter spins one direction. And when the amount produced exceeds usage, it spins the other way. Basically, if you’re producing more power than you’re using, the utility company will buy it back.

Russ Patzer, co-owner of Sun Valley Solar Solutions, says the city has been very proactive in encouraging solar power. “They’ve been great to work with, as has ED-3.”

Patzer said his company put in about 250 systems in 2009. “The reason most people don’t go to solar is awareness. They don’t know about the rebates; they don’t know about the incentives. But it’s coming.”

Patzer’s partner, Joe Messner, said interest in solar alternatives is growing. “We’re seeing a lot more interest lately,” Messner said. In fact, Sun Valley Solar Solutions has seen a 600-percent increase in business since the beginning of 2009.

Messner’s company has been operating since 2006. “When we started, there were only five companies in the Valley installing solar. Now, there are probably 140,” Messner said. He cautions that people should do their homework before hiring a company to install a solar system.

“Many of these companies get into the solar business for the wrong reasons,” Messner said.

The city’s Hinton says solar is an easy proposition. The total plan review and permit fee is $92.50, which can be done in one day.

“We’re working on a grant program that will rebate back the city’s fees, which should be available in the spring,” Hinton said. “We want to make it a smooth, easy process to get solar started. I don’t see any reason to see it slow down in the new year.”

Solar energy seminar slated

Learn more about residential solar electric systems at a free solar energy informational seminar Jan. 21 at the Silver Spur Grill at The Duke at Rancho El Dorado, 42660 W. Rancho El Dorado Parkway.

Representatives from Sun Valley Solar Solutions and Electrical District No. 3 will present information on how the process of photovoltaics works for a residential solar electric system, ED-3’s rebate program for residential solar, and federal and state tax credits for homeowners.

The public information seminar is designed to help Maricopa residents learn more about such solar options. The free seminar begins at 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited; Maricopa residents should call 888-576-5278 or e-mail at [email protected] to reserve a seat.
 

Photo by Jim Williams