Hot water represents the second
largest energy consumer in American households. A typical 80 gallon electric
hot water tank serving a family of four will consume approximately 150 million
BTUs in its seven year lifetime. This will cost approximately $3,600 (at $0.08
per KWH), not accounting for fuel cost increases. (According to the Arizona Solar Center)
Our system cost including installation was $6500. Federal and state tax incentives cut that amount in half. So basically we've got $3250 invested and will make that back in energy savings in under 7 years. Plus renewable technologies add value to the property but that extra value can't be taxed! Financially it's a no-brainer plus it's nice to know we're taking a giant step in the right direction for doing our part to reduce energy consumption.
If you've been keeping track of our prior greening articles you'll know we've set a goal to reduce our energy consumption by over 50%. Click this link and scroll to the bottom for a tally on how we're doing so far.
For those who want to know more please visit www.honeyelectricsolar.com. They installed our system and have a great website that includes photos and illustrations on how the system works.
Want one of these systems yourself? Visit www.FindSolar.com for qualified solar dealers & contractors in your area.
- by Lee Crumpton