As with any financial plan, the outcome depends on the underlying assumptions. Here are the ones used in the calculations below. The loan has a 4% interest rate. Your itemized federal income taxes put you in the 15 percent bracket,…
Yes. The payback period - the length of time it takes for your savings from lower utility bills to equal the initial cost of the system - varies widely, based on the size and type of system you buy, the…
The greatest benefit for the owner is creating a clean, renewable form of energy right at home. Eighty percent of Indiana’s electricity is generated from central coal-fired plants, which results in double the carbon emissions of a typical Indiana household…
As a volunteer-run organization, SIREN is supported via tax-deductible contributions made by individuals and businesses in our community. If you are interested in supporting our work, you can donate at a level of support that fits you best. Individual $25/year Family $50/year Sustainer $100/year Business…
Solar owners are more likely to drive hybrid or electric vehicles. The savings for using solar to charge an electrical vehicle is better than for using solar energy in the home. The pre-owned Chevrolet Volt or Nissan Leaf can be purchased in 2019…
Indiana offers a property tax exemption for the assessed value of most renewable energy systems, typically based on the actual cost of components and labor. Effectively this means that you can increase the value of your home without paying tax…
Leasing is an option for homeowners in many states but not currently in Indiana. The closest thing to it is the community solar option available from Tipmont REMC, Indiana’s first community, remote solar program. The REMC owns and operates an…
Many people finance with a bank home equity line of credit. The minimum monthly interest payment can be less than your savings from electric bills. Talk with your local credit union or bank for financing options. Another avenue to check…
For both individuals and organizations, the best place to start is DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency). It is the most comprehensive source of information on this topic in the United States. It includes financial incentives including…
You can get paid for the renewable attributes of your grid-tied PV energy source by registering with a broker such as SRECTrade or Sol Systems. Participating utility companies purchase renewable energy credits to meet state required renewable portfolio quotas. Indiana…