For solar panels, here is information from George Horrocks of Harmony Energy Works Incorporated who is currently installing solar panels on Bob Vaccaro’s house.  Note that if you live in Portsmouth, the city has zoning provisions you may have to be approved by the Historic District Commission. These may apply to other towns as well.



The NH state energy residential rebate is up to $4500 (for 3.8KW and above) or the lower of 50% of the system cost and the state recently indicated that the funds have been replenished and there is currently about $300,000 available. As always those funds are allocated on a first come, first served basis, so it is important to prepare and submit your paperwork if and when you decide you are ready to move forward on your interests in solar. The Federal tax credit is 30% of the total cost of your solar installation. In addition to the electricity generated by the array, the system will earn SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) each year for the next 10 years, currently worth $35/ea per year.  All this makes solar not only a good choice environmentally, but also a good financial investment with a rate of return that is usually in excess of 9%.

Jack Chambers has recently installed solar panels on his home and would welcome your questions on his experience and other ways to save money.

In Durham, Julia Rodriguez and Charlie Forcey have installed solar panels on their home.

Congratulations to those we know about.  Are their others? Let us hear from you.

There is additional information on other energy efficiency rebates at http://www.dsireusa.org

Energy Efficiency information for Maine

In Maine, the Seacoast Energy Initiative is a collaboration of six towns (Kittery, Eliot, York, South Berwick, Ogunquit, and North Berwick).  SEI assists homeowners by providing information, education and low interest loans for weatherization (air sealing, insulation and related improvements) to residents of participating towns.

Increasing the energy efficiency of homes will reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, employ local businesses during the weatherization process, keep more dollars in our local economy, increase our national security, and lessen our impact on our environment.

By financing the improvements, homeowners can match the cost of making improvements with the benefits from those energy savings.

The program is funded by a grant from the US Dept of Energy and Efficiency Maine.

For more information see www.seacoastenergy.org or talk to Gillian Carter.

-The Green Sanctuary Team and Gillian Carter, 11/17/11