A Word About Buying Local

One of the things that really struck me when I attended and displayed my business at the Energy Trust Better Living show in Portland was the prevalence of foreign made solar products. Most of the other solar vendors were promoting dirt cheap installations without informing their prospects that the solar equipment proposed was from china, Taiwan, or India.

When I decided to offer solar installations for my clients, I spent a great deal of time researching all the different manufacturers of PV modules and inverters and I made a decision to install SolarWorld panels and PVPowered inverters. This decision was based on two very important points: First, each of these manufacturers has demonstrated an outstanding level of quality and craftsmanship in their products. Remember, we're talking about equipment that I expect to be producing power for upwards of 40 to 50 years under all types of conditions. Second, both of these manufactures produce their products not only here in the US, but right here in the State of Oregon. It's more important to me to purchase locally than go on the cheap and purchase from overseas.

When you're considering a solar installation, ask where the products come from and take the time to research the product. A solar installation is a significant investment in your home or business and peace of mind in the longevity of the system will go a long way!

Great Show!

Wow! I would like to thank all of those who came to see me at the Energy Trust Better Living Home Garden & Lifestyle Show at the Portland Expo Center! It was a great show that provided a ton of information about green living and renewable energy solutions. I'm looking forward to following up with all of my new contacts and providing them with common sense renewable energy solutions.

Pacific Power Looks to Increase Utility Rates

The Oregonian reported today that Pacific Power is seeking a 20% increase in electricity rates to take effect in January of 2011. An typical residential customer consuming 900 kilowatts of electricity would see their monthly electric bill increase from $80.96 to $96.78 in 2011. Again, as I posted in my last blog submission, a solar electric array installed to take advantage of an unshaded southern sky is a primary solution to offset the cost of energy. Between the tax credits and rebates which cover almost 70-80% of installation costs and the persistent threat of increasing utility rates, now is the time to take advantage of the solar incentives!