New Solar, Wind Rebate Program Launched in Massachusetts
New Solar, Wind Rebate Program Launched in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) Executive Director Mitchell Adams recently unveiled a new $5 million program from the state’s Renewable Energy Trust to expand the production and use of solar photovoltaic, wind electric and micro-hydroelectric technologies in Massachusetts.
“Supporting hundreds of new clean energy projects will help create new jobs and economic opportunity for small, medium and large clean energy businesses that manufacture, install and service solar and wind technologies,” - Rob Pratt, Renewable Energy Trust Director The Trust is providing rebates to homeowners, businesses, municipalities, nonprofits and other organizations seeking to harness clean energy. The goal is to support 400-500 small-scale renewable energy installations across the state. Through its highly successful Solar-to-Market Initiative and similar programs, the Trust spurred the installation of 206 solar systems during the past two years with an additional 70 systems in the pipeline.
“Just in time for spring and summer, Massachusetts is open for business with clean energy rebates that will jumpstart more solar and small wind projects than ever in the state’s history,” said Adams. “In the past two years alone, we exceeded the total number of solar systems installed in Massachusetts during the previous decade.”
Applicants are encouraged to work with experienced, professional designers and installers listed online at www.nesea.org or www.sebane.org. The rebates are designed to offset 25% - 50% of the cost of these clean energy systems. A well designed, on-site renewable energy system on an energy efficient home or building can meet 40% - 75% of the site’s electricity needs.
“Supporting hundreds of new clean energy projects will help create new jobs and economic opportunity for small, medium and large clean energy businesses that manufacture, install and service solar and wind technologies,” said Renewable Energy Trust Director Rob Pratt. “These technologies offer ways for individuals to impact the way we generate electricity by tapping into clean, renewable sources of power.”
“My solar panels are operating flawlessly and provide much of the electricity I need for my apartment,” said Ethan Hoag, a resident of East Boston who had a system installed in 2003. “I am concerned about our environment, and I would definitely recommend others pursue clean energy opportunities.”
“When I was thinking about some home improvement projects like a new roof, I really wanted to do something good for our environment,” said Janis Anderson, a resident of Jamaica Plain. “I am thrilled with the solar panels I had installed through this program, which made it easy and more affordable. It enabled me to do my part to help reduce the pollution of our environment.”
Competitive grants from the Trust drive down the cost of installing systems in Massachusetts. The Trust is working with the IBEW-Local 103 electricians union to expand the number of qualified electricians who install small-scale solar and wind systems. The Trust is also working with the Solar Energy Business Association of New England to promote the solar industry so it can compete effectively in the global marketplace.
Massachusetts is home to some of the fastest growing renewable energy companies, which are creating hundreds of new jobs and producing cutting-edge technologies to harness power from the wind, sun, water, biomass and fuel cells. Companies like RWE Schott Solar and Evergreen Solar are manufacturing and exporting solar panels. The Trust’s new $5 million program includes extra incentives for products made in Massachusetts as a way to strengthen the growing cluster of clean energy companies in Massachusetts.
September 20th, 2005 - Posted in Other Alternative Energy, Solar Energy News, Solar Power News | |
on March 21st, 2006 at 12:38 am
who can i contact to evaluate my home to see if it is feesiable for a solar system