Feb 16 2009
Today, Oncor officially launched its first solar power initiative, the Take A Load Off, Texas Solar Photovoltaic Incentive Program (Solar PV Program), to encourage expansion of solar energy in Texas, create new jobs for experienced installation experts, and make solar systems more accessible.
Oncor’s Solar PV Program offers cash incentives to qualified homeowners, businesses and governments to add solar photovoltaic power systems. Oncor expects to install about 1,400 new solar systems through this $16 million, four-year program. Only homes, businesses and government buildings served by Oncor are eligible for the incentive program.
“The Take A Load Off, TexasSM, Solar PV Incentive Program is an exciting and innovative project, the first of its kind for Oncor. With so much interest in the solar power industry at the state and national level, Oncor’s Solar PV Program is the right idea at the right time,” said Michael Stockard, Oncor’s Director of Energy Efficiency Programs.
Oncor will pay an incentive of $2.46 per DC watt up to a maximum of $24,600 for each residential installation and up to $246,000 for all other installations. Most residential solar panel projects range from 1 to 10 kilowatts, while business and government installations may receive incentives for projects up to 100 kilowatts. Larger installations will be considered.
Oncor’s Solar PV Program is one of 12 new programs Oncor plans to offer this year to promote renewable energy and encourage energy efficiency. With the implementation of these new programs, Oncor will administer a total of 31 programs that encourage energy efficiency. As a result, Oncor will operate one of the largest energy efficiency initiatives sponsored by a regulated utility in Texas.
“Oncor is committed to helping consumers find creative ways to save energy, protect the environment and reduce emissions,” Stockard said. “Consumers and businesses are interested in solar power and want to learn more. The Solar PV Program will help consumers understand the benefits of installing and operating a solar PV system.”
In November 2008, the Texas Renewable Energy Industries Association honored Oncor for its leadership in developing the Solar PV Program for the Texas market. For more information on Solar PV and other Oncor energy efficiency programs, visit www.takealoadofftexas.com or call 1.866.728.3674.