As research continues to provide proof that solar panels benefit both the environment and residents, businesses are creating new projects to help residents afford solar panels on a budget.
The most recent project focuses on a large group purchase of Marin solar systems for residents over the next few months.
Despite what many would believe in an economy that continues to struggle, statistics from the state of California reveal that Marin solar system installations have remained steady.
State and federal incentive programs helped install at least 882 systems in Marin County, California between January of 2007 and July of 2011. These systems generate 3,891 kilowatts of electricity.
A new plan created by 20 year old employee of Spearhead Solar, Daniel Parrella, of Vacaville, California involves people group purchasing power to find affordable rates for Marin solar power customers. Parrella based his idea off of the popular “deal-of-the-day” company, Groupon, which grants large group discounts to its members.
Parrella’s “group power” strategy is not the first.
In November of 2007, Lisa Max of San Rafael created the group, GoSolarMarin. Her 500 Marin residents received a discount from Novato-based SPG Solar, in which 100 systems were installed.
But, her second attempt at this strategy fell short.
In 2008, her group made a deal with SolarCity of Foster City, in which only 30 solar systems were installed. During this time, the economy began to spiral downward and more residents preferred to lease rather than purchase solar systems.
Yet, Parrella’s solar system installation business remains steadfast. His group signed 150 Davis residents interested in solar panel installation. REC Solar, a mainstream energy company in San Luis Obispo, offered a 20 to 25% discount to residents who purchased a system within three months.
Although residents will pay REC solar roughly $5.45 per watt for their systems, or an estimated $15,000 for an average-sized three kilowatt system, state and federal tax credits and incentives will reduce this cost to an estimated $10,000.
Parrella is currently organizing a similar plan in Marin and Santa Cruz, with an estimated 40 Marin residents presently signed up. He plans to use the Internet and word of mouth throughout the community to spread awareness of the project.
Parrella’s company receives commission from each of the solar installers on the contracts that are signed. Contracts vary according to the size of the solar systems, and prices range from 15 to 25 cents per watt.
Unfortunately, Max did not make money on the group purchases she and her group organized.
Solar companies now offer referral fees which range from $400 to $1,000. Questions have been raised concerning the group discount method.
Aran Moore, co-owner of Sun First in San Rafael, is wary of the group method because if solar companies make a bid too low, they cannot offer good solar system service. Sun First, however, provides 10-year warranties on its systems.
Once you decide to install solar panels in your home or office, the important decision rests on selecting a reputable solar system company with knowledge, understanding and experience in solar systems and installation. Choosing a reliable solar system provider helps ensure that your solar panels will last.
At Sun First, we provide Bay Area clients including residential, commercial, non-profit, and government entities with high quality panels and competitive pricing, which are two of the most important factors in selecting a solar energy partner.
We provide solar panel options to fit your budget or system size and will handle your project beginning from sola panel design and permits to installing and activating your solar panels. Also, we will ensure all of the necessary documents are filed in order for you to receive your solar panel rebate. In addition, Sun First provides service for diagnostics, repairs and maintenance.
Since our beginning in 1984 in Northern California, our knowledgeable and experienced staff has designed and installed thousands of Marin solar systems. Sun First provides each customer with excellent customer service, creative panel design and installation, and reliability in their decision to install solar panels.
Source:
Halstead, Richard. (2011, October 25). Entrepreneurs launch Marin solar home project using Groupon approach. Marin Independent Journal. Retrieved from http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_19191768