Positive News US is a free, not for profit newspaper published four times a year in Ithaca, NY. We report on successful projects around the world in the areas of sustainability, social equality, education and happiness, with a clear message that "another world is possible."
more...
| a part of Positive News International |
A Bright Idea in Berkeley |
by Steve Gabriel
In early November the Berkeley, California, city council approved a solar power loan pro- gram that pioneers a new way of getting solar into homes and businesses. The program will pay for the installation of solar PV panels and solar hot water systems in the form of a loan paid back over a 20 year period. This move attempts to overcome one of the biggest hurdles for solar; the upfront investment of thousands of dollars for installation and equipment. Mayor Tom Bates' chief of staff, Cisco DeVries began developing the plan about eight months ago as a method to address Berkeley's goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050, mandated by Measure G, which was passed in 2006. "Over 20 years, the economics of installing solar panels are great," DeVries said. "But the financial hurdle of the up-front costs was pre- venting people from doing it." Most residential systems in the city cost from $15,000 to $20,000. Under the plan, a homeowner or commercial building owner could hire a city-approved solar installer who would determine the best system for the property. The city would pay the contractor for the system and its installation, using state and federal rebates to help with payment. The system would be the property of the building owner, who would make payments (including administrative costs and interest) as part of their property tax bill. City officials note that over two decades the payments would likely be equal or less than what property owners would save on electric bills. The payments would continue if the owner sold, with the solar panels remaining an asset to the building. Mayor Bates notes that, "A lot of people say, " I'd love to go solar but I'm not planning to be here the rest of my life,' When they sell, they get the benefit. The new owner will take over the obligation. So, it's a big giant win-win." The initiative will be financed through bonds and financial institutions, who will pro- vide the city with low-interest loans. A grant from the EPA will provide Berkeley with $160,000 to cover some of the city's legal, accounting and staff costs. In addition to the opportunities provided to property owners, the solar industry is eager for the program, which is likely to expand the market for solar. Manufacturers, dealers and installers all stand to benefit. The city expects to begin installations in June of 2008. The concept has inspired several city and state officials who working toward California's goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2020.
Contact: www.cityofberkeley.info/sustainable
In early November the Berkeley, California, city council approved a solar power loan pro- gram that pioneers a new way of getting solar into homes and businesses. The program will pay for the installation of solar PV panels and solar hot water systems in the form of a loan paid back over a 20 year period. This move attempts to overcome one of the biggest hurdles for solar; the upfront investment of thousands of dollars for installation and equipment. Mayor Tom Bates' chief of staff, Cisco DeVries began developing the plan about eight months ago as a method to address Berkeley's goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050, mandated by Measure G, which was passed in 2006. "Over 20 years, the economics of installing solar panels are great," DeVries said. "But the financial hurdle of the up-front costs was pre- venting people from doing it." Most residential systems in the city cost from $15,000 to $20,000. Under the plan, a homeowner or commercial building owner could hire a city-approved solar installer who would determine the best system for the property. The city would pay the contractor for the system and its installation, using state and federal rebates to help with payment. The system would be the property of the building owner, who would make payments (including administrative costs and interest) as part of their property tax bill. City officials note that over two decades the payments would likely be equal or less than what property owners would save on electric bills. The payments would continue if the owner sold, with the solar panels remaining an asset to the building. Mayor Bates notes that, "A lot of people say, " I'd love to go solar but I'm not planning to be here the rest of my life,' When they sell, they get the benefit. The new owner will take over the obligation. So, it's a big giant win-win." The initiative will be financed through bonds and financial institutions, who will pro- vide the city with low-interest loans. A grant from the EPA will provide Berkeley with $160,000 to cover some of the city's legal, accounting and staff costs. In addition to the opportunities provided to property owners, the solar industry is eager for the program, which is likely to expand the market for solar. Manufacturers, dealers and installers all stand to benefit. The city expects to begin installations in June of 2008. The concept has inspired several city and state officials who working toward California's goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2020.
Contact: www.cityofberkeley.info/sustainable
Announcements
What do You find hopeful in the world today? Please contribute a short paragraph and be published in Positive News. We are currently selecting...
more >
The California Edition of Positive News is well on the way! We are looking for volunteers to help make it happen. To join our team contact...
more >
