New Jersey Solar Power Residential Case Studies Save money and the environment while you enjoy energy independence  producing your own electricity in New Jersey. Akeena Solar designed this solar power system for a new 4,000 square foot house in Montville. This system included thirty-six 167 watt solar power modules installed on the south roof (second story) and west roof (garage), all at the existing roof pitch. This solar power system produces a  total of 6,012 watts of peak power generating capability (based on manufacturer output ratings). This solar energy system provides about 6,598 kwh of solar electricity per year -- after taking into account various real-world efficiency losses. The section below describes the detailed energy bill analysis and system design work we did for the customer Total costs of the solar power system were $45,000, including all equipment, permits and installation. We applied for and received a $31,215 rebate from the New Jersey Clean Energy Program. Net costs to the homeowner were therefore $13,785 -- not including the pending $2,000 Federal Tax Credit for installing solar electricity.   This solar power system will save the homeowner $755 per year with a Net Present Value of $4,892 based on the following: current residential electric rates 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 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 $15,093 in current dollars -- more than the net cost of the solar energy system itself! On a cash basis, this customer's electric bill went down by $62.89 per month, and their after tax loan payment went up by $53.49. Their monthly positive cash flow was therefore $9.39. Ten bucks a month, free and clear for 30+ years! Solar Energy System Design and Energy Bill Analysis Our recommendation to install this particular solar power 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.         Environmental and Financial Benefits The following two tables summarize the environmental and financial benefits that the solar energysystem 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 month if you were to install a solar energy system in conjunction with other energy saving devices - and then refinance the entire package at a lower interest rate.