HARTFORD -- Nov 13 - New Haven Register

The state is expanding a program that will allow more homeowners to reduce their electricity expenses by installing affordable solar energy systems. The Connecticut Solar Lease program, the first of its kind in the nation, eliminates the high initial costs associated with the purchase and installation of residential solar photovoltaic systems.

Through the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, a combination of rebates and tax credits can be used to lower the cost of leasing solar systems.

The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund is increasing the eligible income limits for homeowners with qualifying credit to 200 percent of the median income in their area, up from 150 percent when the program began.

For example, a Hartford family of four with a total household income of less than $162,000 will now qualify.

The program requires the homeowner to choose an installer from a list of about 20 installers that have been preapproved by the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund and Connecticut Solar Leasing.

Since the beginning of the program, AFC First Financial Corp., which administers the program, has processed more than 300 applications.

The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund promotes the production and use of energy from clean and renewable sources, for the benefit of Connecticut ratepayers, according to its Web site.

The fund is administered by Connecticut Innovations, a quasi- public organization, and is funded by a surcharge on electric utility bills.

For more information about the program, visit www.ctsolarlease.com.

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