Hecht letter: Solar power
If, like the vast majority of Americans, you prefer clean air and water, you can select Idaho sunshine to power your home. I chose clean energy for my home last summer through the Solarize the Valley program, and now my monthly electric bill is only $5.27.
Solarize the Valley connects solar PV electric installers, approved by the U.S. Green Building Council and the Snake River Alliance, to homeowners and businesses at lowest-possible prices by providing installers with volume business. My installation quote last year was 40 percent lower than previous quotes; this year, prices are even lower per kilowatt. Idaho provides low finance rates for the PV electric system. And real estate agents with experience tell me it raises my home’s resale value.
This year, I enjoyed both a 30 percent federal investment tax credit, and Idaho tax relief, which I can use to buy an electric vehicle. Fortunately, Solarize the Valley includes EV charging stations as well this year.
Installation was a breeze, and with no moving parts, my system has quietly and flawlessly provided me clean energy.
Check out this incredible opportunity at SolarizetheValley.org and apply for a free estimate by July 31 to go solar this year. You’ll breathe easier.
Lisa Hecht, Boise
This story was originally published June 23, 2017 at 1:07 AM with the headline "Hecht letter: Solar power."