Originally published July 26 2005
Sunshine may be the answer to high energy bills, expert says
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The Idaho Energy Division is offering to share some of the early costs of utilizing solar power, if Idaho residents decide to use it to cut down on their energy bills, reports the Idaho Mountain Express.
Idahoans eager to harness power from the sun can get help from the Idaho Energy Division, which is offering to share some of the early costs.
Through its Solar Electric System Site Assessment program, the Energy Division will pay up to $175 for a site assessment by a qualified solar electric dealer who can design a system and cost estimate for a home or business.
A complete list of qualified solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) dealers is available on the Idaho Energy Division's website: www.idahosolar.org.
The solar dealer will provide a sun chart for your area, a completed site evaluation form including the cost estimate for installation, and a copy of the Idaho Customer Information Booklet containing lots of useful information about solar energy.
Funds are limited; meaning about 50 site assessments will be eligible for rebates.
They will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
$175 rebates are available for assessments on sites off-grid, and $75 rebates for on-grid sites, those connected to an existing power line.
Off-grid sites are particularly suited for solar electric power because it is usually much cheaper than extending power lines to a remote site, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electricity.
When sunlight strikes a PV cell, electrons are dislodged, creating an electrical current.
Today, more than half of Silver City's buildings ---among the oldest in the state---have power again, thanks to roof-mounted PV panels.
Many ranchers also rely on PV panels to pump water for cattle in remote locations.
Look closely at your calculator or wristwatch; you might see a tiny PV cell there too.
Existing system upgrades and small solar electric applications, such as for recreational vehicles, do not qualify.
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