The Time for Solar is Now

摘要

Solar energy has proven to be a viable alternative and sustainable way of meeting U.S. energy requirements. In the short term, however, key issues are impacting the solar energy industry. Most notably, the Federal Section 1603 Grant program, originally scheduled to expire at the end of 2010 and extended through 2011, likely will not be renewed.The program, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, provides 30 percent cash rebates for qualified projects. The 30 percent grant is in lieu of certain tax credits, although projects are still eligible to depreciate 100 percent of the system, less half the cash grant or investment, for qualifying energy systems put into service between Sept. 8, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2011. Many financial institutions are more willing to lend with the grant as a down payment. Commercial companies essentially can purchase a solar installation's equipment with no money down.