Solar Thermal

Solar hot water systems are extremely efficient, providing up to 80% of a home's annual hot water needs. Also, solar hot water isn't just for personal use anymore. EPGE offers systems for space heating, pool heating, and through advanced technologies, even cool air for air conditioning. Solar hot water has proven that it's efficient and reliable. In fact, solar hot water has been used in different ways for hundreds of years. Today, solar hot water technologies have evolved into systems that perform extremely well in all climates. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that over 1 million U.S. homes have had a solar hot water system installed.

• Dramatically lower electricity bills—many homeowners experience at least a 50% decrease, up to the complete elimination of their electrical expenses.
• The average American household uses 920 kWh per month. SolarWorld’s average installation accounts for an impressive 840 kWh per month.
• Of course, savings depend on electricity requirements, available space and system orientation.

A solar hot water system means being less dependent on your local utility company. Did you know that California utility rates alone have steadily risen 6.7% annually for the past 30 years? Because homes with solar hot water systems are far less dependent on utility companies, price hikes have little effect on them.

Scientists have proven that global warming is no longer a myth, and governments around the world are now taking action. Each of us can make a difference by using natural, renewable energy.

A solar hot water system lowers your home's electricity or gas heating usage up to 20%, dramatically reducing your home's greenhouse gas emissions. A solar hot water system is one significant way to preserve our planet for generations to come.

A carbon footprint is a term that describes the impact people have on the environment. More specifically, it measures the amount of carbon dioxide produced by each of us. Unfortunately, the United States is the world leader when it comes to CO2 emissions, producing over 29% of the global output.

Commuting, eating, bathing, and watching television are just a few examples of what adds to your carbon footprint. Water heating in particular accounts for over 30% of CO2 emissions from the typical American home. A solar hot water system is an important step in reducing your carbon footprint.

Conventional fuel resources such as coal and oil are destined to increase in cost, and eventually run out. The sun's power is unlimited and available to everyone. It's free! No corporations or utility companies own the rights to the sun's energy, so there are no monthly bills

Studies show that solar systems can increase your home value by 20 times the annual electricity savings.

In addition, homes with solar systems tend to sell faster than homes without solar- 15% faster by some studies.

Tax incentives and rebates can reduce the cost of going solar by up to 50% depending on your state and local programs. Financing options are now available in many areas to help overcome the upfront costs of going solar.

Installing a solar hot water system is a smart decision in so many ways.

• According to the National Remodelers' Association, adding a solar hot water system to your home raises resale value by the entire cost of the system!
• Homeowner's insurance policies usually cover solar hot water systems and insure them against damage.
• As gas and electric rates continue to rise, the value of your solar investment will rise too.

Currently, the Federal government offers a 30% tax credit to homes and businesses that install a solar hot water system.

The following link will direct you to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE). DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency: http://www.dsireusa.org/