More Public Money for Large vs. Small NJ Solar Projects

The Star-Ledger is reporting that smaller NJ solar business-owners are getting squeezed by a focus on larger solar projects.

Small-scale projects and the local companies that install them may be in jeopardy, however, as government handouts for those operations are being reduced, according to energy experts.

In the last three years, the rate of new small-scale solar projects in the state has been slowing, dropping to 586 projects in 2007, from 717 in 2006, according to the state Board of Public Utilities. The numbers are on pace to drop again this year, with only 500 projects expected for the year, down from 645 last year, the BPU said.

"What's happening is that the BPU is headed toward the big projects," said Jeff Tittel, the director of the New Jersey chapter of the Sierra Club. "We shouldn't be patting ourselves on the back because we're No. 2 in the country in solar generation. We're starting to slip, and we need to move forward."

New Jersey Weatherization Programs

Once again, The Garden State is in the forefront when it comes to concern for its citizens. As we approach colder weather and the winters New Jersey is known for, read about NJ's Lifeline Assistance Program for Senior and Disabled persons, as well as other Low Income and Weatherization Programs.

Three Cheers for New Jersey: Green Energy

As printed in The Caldwell Progress, 'Environment New Jersey', a citizen-based environmental advocacy group predicts that the per capita cost of energy will rise to $5,000 per person (more than a 60% increase). New Jersey Residential and Commercial energy users should consider alternate ways to fight these rising costs. Read more to learn why New Jersey does better than most other states.

Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency

Here are some interesting details for you regarding various Federal Tax Credits
for Consumer Home Improvement Projects. This program continues through 2010 (and 2016 for Solar). The tax credits also include the purchase of fuel efficient automobiles. Also available are Tax Deductions for Commercial Buildings as posted by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Advice from Energy Star on Changing Filters on a Forced Air System

We've just come across a maintenance checklist written by the folks at Energy Star. Take a look at what the professionals have to say about annual maintenance! One important tip for people who have Forced Air Systems is to change the disposable filters on a monthly basis. You can do it yourself and you'll be amazed at the difference it makes in your air flow, which translates into more efficiency, and savings

NJ Solar Marketing Programs Among the Best in the US

According to TMC, a new report cites New Jersey, along with California, Oregon, Wisconsin and Massachusetts, as having the among most effective solar marketing programs in the country.

The states with the best solar marketing programs are California, Oregon, Wisconsin, Massachusetts and New Jersey, according to the report. Connecticut has been "somewhat proactive" in letting residents know about programs available to reduce the cost of installing solar energy systems in their homes, said Mark Sinclair, vice president of Clean Energy Group.

"Marketing their programs and creating messages that connect to consumers on a financial or value level are the keys to increasing solar installations," Sinclair said. "By creating a solar marketing plan that promotes the affordability of solar power, for example, states can attract new customers, create long-term consumer demand and build successful markets for this valuable energy source."

Hopatcong NJ Dumping Dump for Solar Energy Farm?

The NJ Star-Ledger reports Hopatcong is exploring a joint venture to turn the former town dump into a 23-acre solar energy farm. Officials say the project will reduce electric bills:

"This project would be the largest enterprise the town has ever undertaken," said Francis, adding the solar panels would produce about 8 to 10 megawatts of electricity and could reduce electric bills paid by the borough and the school district by 20 percent.

Be Ready for Cold Weather: 12 Home Heating Tips Help You Save Money & Energy

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NJ Home Heating Assistance Expanded by nearly 100,000 Households vs. 2008

A NewsroomJersey.com report says Corzine raises income eligibility to expand the Home Heating Assistance program to include nearly 100,000 more households than last year.

As part of his economic recovery program, Corzine raised income eligibility for home heating aid from 175% of the federal poverty level to 225%. This increase allowed approximately 50,000 more households to be eligible this year. The 288,662 households and $170,217,604.00 represents an increase of 92,200 households and $74,523,505.00 compared to last year.

NY Times: New Jersey plans to double solar power

The New York Times reports that New Jersey is going to double solar power within the state by the end of 2013. The cost per year to the average residential customer is reported to be less than five dollars.

The installation, scaled down slightly from the original plan, will cost $515 million, and will add $1.20 to $4 a year to the average residential customer’s electricity bill, a spokesman, Paul L. Rosengren, said. He did not say what the electricity would cost per kilowatt-hour but acknowledged, “solar is above-market.” The large scale of the project is intended to hold down costs, he said.

US Treasury Grants for Commercial Solar Installations

Did You Know...

New for FYE 2009 and FYE 2010, Treasury Grants are now available. Instead of taking a Federal Tax Credit, The U.S. Treasury Department will issue grants equal to 30% of the cost of Commercial Solar Installations Projects started in the US in the next 2 years! Your business can receive a cash grant per the Federal Stimulus package.

Here is a great site to visit for more information on renewable energy programs in New Jersey.

Here are some interesting facts about Federal Issues affecting the installation of Solar.
Email info@bornsteinsons.com to learn more.

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