It is a law enacted in 2005 that provides cash rebates for about one-quarter of the cost to install solar photovoltaic electricity producing systems or solar thermal heating or hot water systems in residential and commercial buildings.
How did the Solar Energy Rebate Program get enacted?
With leadership from Governor Baldacci, NRCM strongly advocated for passage of LD 1586 “An Act to Encourage the Use of Solar Energy.” Passed unanimously by both houses of the Legislature, the law was signed into law by the governor and became effective on September 17, 2005.
When is the rebate program effective?
Systems installed by certified installers after July 1, 2005 are eligible for rebates.
Who is eligible for a rebate?
Maine residents who own or rent residential and/or commercial buildings are eligible. Rebates from new construction are available to the original owner.
How long will the solar rebates be available?
A total of $500,000 has been allocated to the Solar Energy Rebate Program Fund for distribution through December 31, 2008. Rebates are available on a first-come first-serve basis. 75% of the funding is available for solar thermal system rebates and 25% is available for solar photovoltaic system rebates.
Where can I buy solar energy equipment?
There are numerous solar equipment suppliers in Maine. Check the yellow pages, do an Internet search or check out: www.solarbuzz.com for listings of suppliers in Maine.
How do I get my rebate?
The Maine State Energy Program, a division of the Public Utilities Commission, is responsible for administering the Solar Rebate Program. Download an application form from the Maine State Energy Program at: www.maine.gov/msep/
What kinds of solar systems are eligible?
Solar photovoltaic electricity producing systems or solar thermal heating or hot water systems are eligible for rebates. Solar photovoltaic systems use energy from the sun to create electricity. (All of the funding for solar photovolatic systems has been reserved through the end of the program in 2008.) These systems must have a generating capacity of 100 kilowatts or less. Solar thermal systems use energy from the sun to heat water or air. (Funding for solar thermal systems is still available.)
How much will my rebate be?
Solar photovoltaic system rebates are $3 per watt on the first 2,000 watts of installed capacity and $1 per watt for the next 1,000 watts. Solar thermal systems designed to heat water or air, are eligible for rebates of 25% of the cost of the system, including installation, or $1,250, whichever is less.
Can I pre-certify my rebate?
Yes. Mainers can submit applications prior to system installation so that system qualification and availability of funds can be determined before a system is actually purchased and installed. When an application is pre-certified, funds will be set aside to ensure the availability of a rebate.
How long will it take to receive my rebate check?
Once the solar system is installed and all paperwork is submitted, the Maine State Energy Program estimates that rebate checks should have a turn-around of about 30 days.
Where is the list of "certified installers?"
The lists of certified installers for the Solar Rebate Program can be found here: http://www.maine.gov/msep/PDF/SolarInstallersInternet.pdf
Who do I contact for more information?
Fore more information, contact Richard Fortier, the Program Manager for Maine State Energy Program at the Maine Public Utilities Commission, at richard.fortier@maine.gov or at (207) 287-3319.
What are the benefits of installing solar energy equipment?
- Provides essentially pollution-free energy.
- Reduces utility bills.
- Reduces electricity prices (operating costs) over the long-term region-wide. Solar power also boosts long-term energy security and reliability by decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Stimulates local economic activity and supports local businesses.
- Reduces ozone smog thus improving Mainers’ respiratory health and the environment.
- Reduces global warming pollution generated by fossil fuel-fired power plants.
How do solar energy systems help fight global warming?
Solar energy systems use a clean, renewable source of energy - the sun. Using solar energy instead of standard electricity sources or fossil fuels reduces the amount of global warming pollution created.
Where can I get more information about global warming?
Read our publication, “Global Warming in Maine: Warning Signs, Winning Solutions.”
The Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) works to improve the quality of Maine's rivers, reduce poisonous chemicals threatening human and wildlife health, decrease air and global warming pollution, and conserve Maine lands. NRCM harnesses the power of the law, science, and the voices of almost 9,000 members and activists statewide and beyond. Together, we are making a difference. Help us protect the nature of Maine - become a member today!
For additional information, please contact: Dylan Voorhees, Energy Project Director (207) 622-3101 ext. 212.