3 Ways to Go Solar: Simple Solutions for Going Solar

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Belita Schindler pays a little extra on her utility bill each month to support solar projects in her area.
Belita Schindler pays a little extra on her utility bill each month to support solar projects in her area.
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Patrick Ferraro says nearly nonexistent utility bills and the
Patrick Ferraro says nearly nonexistent utility bills and the "feel-good" factor make his investment in solar power worth it.
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Peggy and Glen Roberts lease a solar array that produces most of the power their home needs for $50 a month.
Peggy and Glen Roberts lease a solar array that produces most of the power their home needs for $50 a month.

Think capturing the sun’s energy is too expensive? Three homeowners–with three very different budgets–find ways to build photovoltaic power. 

1. He bought the system.

What He Did: After retiring from a 33-year career in water politics in 2003, Patrick Ferraro retrofitted his creekside home with a solar water heater and thirty-six 100-watt solar panels, which power his home and recharge his Chrysler Global Electric Motorcar neighborhood electric vehicle. Patrick researched solar options and took classes on solar energy payback, then hired Mike Clifton of Santa Clara’s M C Solar Engineering to advise him and handle the installation.

Cost: The installed system cost $39,600 before rebates and credits. Patrick received a California Energy Commission rebate for $10,700 and a California state income tax credit of $4,500. The panels reduce Patrick’s power import by 50 percent and save him $600 a year.

How It Works: Patrick’s photovoltaic (PV) system converts sunlight into energy, which powers the freezer and refrigerator; washer and dryer; window air conditioner; wall heaters; and shop tools. Maintenance is easy. Patrick washes the panels with a long-handled broom and a garden hose. In the past six years, he hasn’t had to replace or repair a panel. “The system runs itself,” he says.

Why He Did It: Since he purchased his home in 1972, Patrick has wanted to go solar. “Regardless of the cost you incur when you install PVs, the feel-good part is priceless,” he says. Nearly nonexistent utility bills are pretty nice, too.

  • Published on Dec 15, 2009
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