July, 2007 Cover Story

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LIPA’s SOLAR PIONEER PROGRAM
How to Hook up to Green Power
STORY BY MAUREEN TRAXLER
© 2007 NETWORKING® MAGAZINE 2020 GUIDE TO GOING GREEN

The Long Island Power Authority’s (LIPA) Solar Pioneer Program encourages and helps the utility’s customers understand and find the resources to successfully install Photovoltaic or PV (solar electric) systems. The system converts energy from the sun into electricity through the use of solar panels usually installed on the roof, and consists of three components: solar modules that produce DC (direct current) electricity when exposed to sunlight, an inverter that converts DC into AC (alternating current) electricity usable in the home, and a meter that records the amount of electricity purchased from LIPA. PV systems not only reduce the amount of electricity a customer may need to purchase, but may also produce excess electric energy. Under the New York State approved Net Metering Law, when surplus energy is produced, the meter runs backwards and LIPA may issue a credit on the customer’s electric bill.

A PV system is simple, durable, reliable, and most of all, has environmental benefits. Systems are available in a wide range of sizes and outputs; the modules, which have a life span from 25 to 40 years, have no moving parts, and are resistant to extreme temperatures, high winds, moisture and salt. With a PV system, no fossil fuels are burned to generate power. A system that can output 10,000 watts (10 kW) has the potential of saving 64-pounds of sulphur dioxide, a component of acid rain, 19-pounds of nitrogen oxide, a contributor to air pollution, and 14,500-pounds of carbon dioxide, one of the greenhouse gases largely produced by fossil fuel combustion.

A solar system allows customers to stabilize a portion of their energy costs, despite the global fluctuations of fuel costs. New York State offers residential customers up to a 25% tax credit and homeowners can take advantage of a 15-year property tax exemption. The federal government offers up to a 30% tax credit for residential and commercial customers, and business-owned PV systems are eligible for tax advantages, such as accelerated depreciation and a federal tax credit.

LIPA outlines four simple steps to becoming a Solar Pioneer:

• Determine the size of the PV system that meets your needs, find out how to participate and download program forms by visiting www.lipower.org/solar.
• Contact a solar contractor to learn about the technology and installations.
• Evaluate your building’s orientation for system effectiveness (a south facing roof is best).
• Upon completion and inspection to ensure fulfillment of requirements, LIPA will issue a rebate check.

The above guidelines can be found in LIPA’s Solar Pioneer brochure. To download the brochure or find out about free Solar Seminars, visit www.lipower.org/solar or call the LIPA Energy Infoline at 1-800-692-2626.

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