Is the solar boom of the 1980s repeating itself today? If you lived in the Valley during this time, you may remember seeing solar water heating systems popping up on rooftops. The rising fuel costs of the 1980’s, combined with federal tax incentives spurred a frenzy of solar investments.

Seemingly overnight, solar design and installation companies, who knew very little about the industry, set up shop and began calling on customers. Yet within a very short time, the federal government pulled the plug on incentives and the boom ended. Solar companies faded back into the night, and many homeowners were left with poorly designed systems they knew little about related to maintenance and performance.

Fast forward to today and again we are in another solar boom. So, what’s different today? A lot. While we are once again experiencing rising fuel costs and tax incentives have been reinstated, the major difference is technology. A new generation of solar water heating systems has developed. Today, the solar water heating systems must be certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation to ensure the highest quality of design and manufacturing. Systems are better equipped to withstand extreme cold, preventing the leaking issues of their predecessors.

Another difference – a heightened awareness that reducing dependence on fossil fuels, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving energy will help protect and preserve the environment for future generations. Using the power of the sun to heat water for your home is an efficient, emission-free, renewable source of energy that can save you money on your monthly electric bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, heating water accounts for one fifth to one quarter of an average U.S. household’s energy use.

Investing in a new solar water heating system can cost on average about $5,000 to $6,000. Yet, recouping those costs may take only a few years. For SRP customers, a $5,000 solar water heating system is reduced to a cost of only $1,590 when you subtract state and federal incentives along with the $.50/kwh incentive from SRP. SRP representatives work with customers to locate licensed contractors to find the right system, and educate them on the performance and maintenance of these systems.

It’s a simple, easy process that can be completed in less than a month.

I feel confident in saying that the consumer-driven solar industry is here to stay.

To learn more about using energy from the sun to reduce your monthly electric bill, visit www.srpnet.com/solar.