Solar rebates have been on the horizon in PA for some time now, and installers have been holding projects for clients waiting for something to happen. This spring, Pennsylvania rolled out the first phase of what they’re calling the “Sunshine Solar Program”. This program will provide $100 million in rebates to assist in funding solar electric (PV) or solar hot water (Thermal) systems throughout the state, both for small businesses and homeowners. By the way, much of the funding will come from the “stimulus” bill. Lancaster County PA solar systems will be able to participate.

The funding will be distributed in the form of rebates for approved residential and small business solar projects. Interestingly, rebates will be awarded on a “first come, first served” basis. Other limitations are that households may receive one PV electric (photovoltaic) rebate for up to 10KW (kilowatts) of power plus (not “or”) one solar hote water (thermal) rebate of up to $2,000. Only one application per business at a time will be allowed – once the project is completed the business can reapply for a second project.

Now, your typical solar thermal install these days will run you about $8,000 to $10,000, so the rebate at max works out to 25-20% of the total cost. With the PV jobs the typical cost is going to be $30,000 to $70,000 on the high side (for a residential or small business). According to Mike Newman, Renewable Energy Services rep for Worley & Obetz in Manheim PA, the typical cost is about $68,000 for a 10KW PV system. “Plus the 30% federal tax credit on the whole (project)…it’s pretty substantial” Mike added.

I’m glad to see that this program is off the ground and running. Solar providers are reporting that they are busy writing estimates and working long days. Let’s see more PA summer sun being used to generate energy! I’ll write more here as details come to light. For a list of approved PA solar vendors visit this link on the PA DEP website. Worley & Obetz have 3 nice flyers summarizing the PA incentives for wind, solar and geothermal projects.