Santa Cruz Solar Power Home Save Money and the Environment While You Enjoy Energy Independence A 6.2 kW solar energy system was designed for a Santa Cruz, CA residency. This system included 30 Sharp 205 watt solar energy modules and 1 Fronius 5100 inverter. A total of 6,150 watts of peak power generating capability is provided (based on manufacturer output ratings). This system provides about 8,637 kWh per year -- after taking into account various real-world efficiency losses. This system will reduce the annual utility electric expenses by 79.4%. Total costs of the solar energy system were $42,102, including all equipment, permits and installation on this concrete tile roof (flashed standoffs were used to prevent leakage). The customer received a $14,108 rebate from the California Energy Commission and a pending $2,100 state tax credit. Net costs to the homeowner were therefore $25,894. The PV system will provide an economic breakeven point in 8.3 years. Based on current residential electric rates, a 7% discount rate, 30 year solar energy system lifetime, 5% annual electrical rate increases, 6% borrowing rates, and 42% combined State and Federal tax rates, this system will save the homeowner $1,505 per year. According to the Appraisal Institute, energy saving improvements increase your home's value by $20 for every $1 reduction in annual energy usage. In this case the value of the home was increased by $30,096 in current dollars -- more than the net cost of the solar energy system itself! The positive annual cash flow is about $124 a month. Solar Energy System Design and Energy Bill Analysis Our recommendation to install this particular solar energy system was based on a detailed analysis of the customer's energy bill, roof condition, orientation, house electrical system, local weather conditions, environmental interests, financial goals and aesthetic preferences. This analysis was summarized in a detailed, 50 page report that we presented to the customer. The two bar charts below highlight the results of our before and after energy bill analysis.