New Hartford, CT Solar Power Home Save Money and the Environment While You Enjoy Energy Independence Generating Your Own Electricity With Solar Power Akeena Solar designed this 3.15 kW solar power system for a residence in New Hartford, CT. This solar power system includes 18 Sharp 175 watt solar energy modules installed on south facing 30-degree roof pitch. The solar power system also includes 1 Fronius IG 3000 (240 volt) inverter. This solar power system has a peak power generating capacity of of 3,150 watts (based on manufacturer output ratings). This solar energy system provides about 3,569 kWh per year – after taking into account various real-world efficiency losses. The annual utility electricity expense was reduced by 33%. Total costs of the solar power system were $24,912, including all equipment, permits and installation. We applied for and received a $13,878 rebate from the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund. Net costs to the homeowner were therefore $11,034 -- not including the pending $1,655 Federal Tax Credit. The solar power system reaches an economic breakeven point in 11 years. This solar energy system will save the homeowner $407 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 Federal tax credits 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 $8,136 with the addition of the solar power system. The 10- year Renewable Energy Credit revenue is estimated at $1,891.   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 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 analysis. Environmental and Financial Benefits The following two tables summarize the environmental and financial benefits that the solar energy system will provide 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 energy 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.