California California Solar Power Rebates and Incentives Solar energy systems represent a significant positive investment for either a home owner or business that delivers inexpensive power for decades. With the generous incentives available, that investment is even more affordable. These incentives include a wide range of federal, state and local programs that substantially offset initial costs in the form of tax credits, rebates, grants, loans, leasing and direct equipment sales. These programs, though extensive, can be confusing to identify and understand, then to file the appropriate documents in order to receive your rebates once a system has been installed. The best way to take advantage of these solar energy incentives is to call your local Akeena representative at (888) 253-3628, and Akeena will manage the rebate activities for your new Akeena solar system.  Additionally, there is a complete and up-to-date list of state and local programs maintained by a non-profit organization through the link provided, DSIRE, the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy as well as the California link For more information click this link to the California state Go Solar California website which details the rebates for the California Solar Initiative and the New Solar Homes Partnership.. Commercial and Residential Solar Power Financial Incentives (effective Jan 1, 2007) California Solar Initiative managed by the California Energy Commission 100 kW and smaller - EPBB - Expected Performance-Based Buy Down – generally residential and smaller commercial installations 100 kW and greater - PBI - Performance-Based Incentive – generally considered commercial installations Monthly payments based on recorded kilowatt hours (kWh) of solar power produced over a 5-year period. Payments are based on actual electricity generated in kWh per the monthly reading of the meter after commissioning of the system Note that there are different incentive rates for commercial entities and for Government or Non-Profit entities that are the System Owners. In addition many cities offer solar energy rebates on a per watt basis with Los Angeles offering solar energy rebates of up to $6 per watt on systems that are manufactured within the city.  Active solar energy systems (including photovoltaic systems) are not subject to property taxes. Availability of funding for these local programs is more limited than CEC funding. Customers in municipal utility districts are not eligible for CEC funding. A 30% federal tax credit also applies to residential systems, up to $2000. Note that this is currently scheduled to end at the end of 2008, but is in discussion in Congress for renewal. Akeena Solar will fill out and manage all of the necessary paperwork with the CEC and your local utility to reserve and claim your rebate. The most applicable California programs are summarized below: State Solar Incentive Programs California Property Tax Exemption for Solar Systems Emerging Renewable Buy-Down Program 1. <100 kW - Expected Performance-Based Buy Down Program 2. >100 kW - Performance-Based Incentive Program Incentives for Grid-Tied Technologies Local Solar Incentive Programs DSIRE, the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy Federal Business Solar Energy Incentives: The incentives below may be available for businesses (not residences) that invest in or purchase qualified solar energy equipment. They also apply to qualified home offices. 30 Percent Investment Tax Credit 5 Year Accelerated Capital Depreciation Financing Assistance Akeena Solar offers different financing programs to meet your financing needs.