Connecticut Solar Power Homes Save Money and the Environment While You Enjoy Energy Independence with Electricity You Produced With A Solar Power System Akeena Solar designed a 4.5 kW solar power system for a residence in Chester, CT. This solar power system included 27 Sharp 167 watt solar energy modules installed on south facing 30-degree roof pitch. The system also included 1 Fronius IG 5100 (240 volt) inverter. The solar power system is capable of producing 4,509 watts of peak power (based on manufacturer output ratings). This solar power system produces about 4,605 kWh per year – after taking into account various real-world efficiency losses. The annual utility electric expense was reduced approximately 70.6% by using solar power. Total costs of the system were $37,064, including all equipment, permits and installation. We applied for and received a $19,778 rebate from the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund. Net costs to the homeowner were therefore $17,286 -- not including the pending $2,593 Federal Tax Credit. The economic break-even point is 11.1 years. The 10-year Renewable Energy Credit revenue is estimated at $2,441. This solar power system saves the homeowner $576 per year based on: current residential electric rates 7% discount rate 30 year solar energy system lifetime 5% annual electric rate increases 6% borrowing rates, and combined State and Federal tax rates According to the Appraisal Institute, energy saving improvements increases 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 $11,514 in current dollars. Solar Power 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 interest, 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. Environmental and Financial Benefits The following two tables summarize the environmental and financial benefits that the solar energy system will have over its 30+ year lifespan.   These savings do not take into account several important factors: Distributed solar energy power is a renewable energy resource and very kind to the environment. Renewable solar power system improvements add significantly to the value of your property without any increase in the assessed value in most municipalities. Cash flow savings are likely to be hundreds of dollars per moth if you were to install a solar power system.