It can cost $25,000 to install solar panels on the average home, a little less if you live in Bristol. As of Friday, the price went down even further for Bristol residents.
Because participation in the “Solarize Bristol” program reached a new tier (Tier 2), the price just got lower for any Bristol property owner who signs up for a solar installation from Oct. 27 until April 1.
If participation can climb to another tier in the next three months, the price will drop once again.
Here’s how it works:
The State of Rhode Island has been making big investments in solar energy incentives and rebate programs, and the programs have been popular.
“A tariff program opened in April last year, and all of it was used up in six months,” said Dana Weinberg, director of inside sales and marketing for Sunwatt Solar. “It’s really a matter of getting yourself in position and taking advantage of the incentives while they’re here.”
One of the first Bristol customers to sign with Sunwatt is thrilled with the program so far. “We were one of the first to install solar panels on our house through the first Solarize Bristol program and can’t say enough good things about it,” said Carlton Tucker. “We pay virtually nothing for electricity and we are actually making money from National Grid for the next 15 years.”
Bristol was able to reach the second pricing tier thanks in large part to one of its Industrial Park businesses, GMT Composites, which signed up for a 25-kilowatt system.
Solarize Bristol is hosting an information forum later this month for residents who want to learn more about the program (see below).
Public forum
Tuesday, Jan.. 23; 6:30 p.m.
Mt. Hope Farm, Bristol
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