Posted by Pem McNerney (Editor) , October 04, 2013 at 08:53 PM

First Selectman William Fritz announced today that the Town of Clinton has joined the CT Solar Challenge™  (CTSC), a nonprofit organization, that is a statewide, community-based group purchasing program that promotes the adoption of solar energy through cost reductions, volunteer-driven outreach and education. The CT Solar Challenge™ program in Clinton will run for a limited time, beginning October 1, 2013.CT Solar Challenge™ completely changes the way solar systems are currently sold in Connecticut- making solar simple and affordable for participants. The CTSC model virtually eliminates traditional marketing and advertising costs through the outreach and networking efforts of volunteers. Group savings are achieved by installing multiple solar systems in the same geographic area through a pre- selected single source vendor. These savings are passed on to participants who save thousands of dollars on the cost of installing a solar energy system.

Solar energy systems are now more affordable than ever. Solar panel prices are at a record low, driven down by heavily subsidized Chinese panels flooding the US market. Participants receive a 35% upfront rebate from the State of CT and a 30% Federal tax credit. Solar systems are also sales tax and property tax exempt, but the window of opportunity is closing.

Connecticut plans to completely eliminate upfront solar rebates in coming months. Residential rebates have been reduced twice in the past year. Each system installed through the program earns the Town of Clinton credit towards the installation of a solar system on a town property.

“Going solar is a win – win – win!” says Paul Gebauer, Clinton’s Solar Liaison and Clinton Energy Task Force Chair. “The Solar Challenge is a win for the individual, a win for Clinton and a win for the planet. I urge everyone to come to the free workshop coming up in a few weeks.”

Clinton residents and business owners are invited to the kick off of the Clinton CT Solar Challenge™. Everyone is invited to the Solar Workshop to be held on October 16 from 7-9 p.m. at The Morgan School. Please register by visiting CTSolarChallenge.com, clicking the CLINTON button and filling out the form.

 

For more information contact:

Maggie Treichel, Assistant Director
CT Solar Challenge

Branford, CT 06405
800- 505-7419

Maggie@CTSolarChallenge.com

www.CTSolarChallenge.com