Maine's Solar Rebate Program
Takes Off
Source:
Shirley Bartlett
Program Manager
Maine State Energy Program
The Maine State Energy
Program’s Solar Rebate Incentive has had a very fast start. Since Governor
Baldacci signed into law, the “...act to encourage the use of solar energy,” the
Solar Rebate Program has either rebated or reserved 150 photovoltaic or thermal
systems.
Photovoltaic and thermal water systems have been the most popular with thermal
air a distant third. The solar thermal funding has picked up speed and
interest in pre-heaters for domestic water seems to be the most popular with
tying into baseboard heating a close second. The majority of systems that have
been installed are in residential settings and this segment seems to have the
greatest interest in them. Additional information about the program and an
application form for the rebate can be found on the program's web site.
As part of introducing Solar use in our state the Maine State Energy Program has
sponsored three very well attended training classes on solar thermal systems and
has expanded its list of qualified installers by over 90 new participants.
This ever-expanding list of qualified solar
thermal installers is also on the program’s web site, as well as a
list of
qualified photovoltaic system installers.
The photovoltaic portion of the program has been particularly busy and at this
point has reserved all available funding for systems through 12/31/08. While
the PV portion of the program has been capped, there are Federal tax incentives
available which should be thoroughly investigated. A link to information on
this is provided on our web site as well.
We strongly encourage anyone interested in installing a solar system to check
out the web site for additional
information and contact some of the companies listed. Even though Maine is not
thought of as a “Solar” state the quality and volume of installations are
quickly proving that wrong.
For more information about Maine's Solar Rebate Program, contact
Shirley Bartlett at 207.287.3318