Any information can be placed in the sidebar to help your website visitors navigate your site.
News and Articles
Rebates for Solar Hot Water Remain in Effect
By Karen Cramton
August 17, 2011
As fuel prices, commodities and the stock market continue to bounce up and down, one thing seems constant – the return on solar alternative energy projects. Despite budget pressures in Concord, renewable energy rebates for solar hot water are still intact. They are funded by the state’s renewable portfolio standards (RPS). This is good news for the environment, migration to renewables, and the numerous families that have taken advantage of these rebates. For those who are still thinking about solar, funds are available now, but will be decreasing in the future.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) announced in late July 2011 that all Solar Water Heating program funds supported by the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) had been awarded. The state-funded component of the rebate program however, is still in effect. Approximately $300,000 remains for residential use, and will be awarded based on the systems’ annual rated British Thermal Units (BTU) output. Specifically, the rebate is equal to $1,500 for systems rated output of 5.5 MMBTU - 19.9 MMBTU; $1,700 for systems rated output of 20 MMBTU - 29.9 MMBTU; and $1,900 for systems rated output of 30 MMBTU or more. What do these numbers mean for a typical home owner? In general, systems installed for households of 2 – 4 people qualify for $1,500 rebate. Households of five or more people qualify for $1,700, and using solar for home heating purposes qualifies for $1,900.
Rebates will be awarded for eligible projects as long as program funding is available. The PUC has also advised that rebate levels will be reduced by $150 when the program budget reaches $100,000 or when total program participation reaches 400 applicants, whichever comes first.
And of course, the Federal Tax Credit of 30% remains in effect through 2016.
The time is now. The Sun is free!
What's a Good Investment in 2011?
By Karen Cramton
January 3, 2011
Question: Is solar hot water for my home an investment with a good return?
Answer: Yes. And it's as predictable as the sun rising each day.
Did you know that in northern climates, we typically spend between 20% and 25% of our overall energy budget on heating water for domestic use? At some point every home?s hot water heater will fail. This can be an opportunity to invest wisely. Have a plan so you can respond proactively, not reactively. A water heating system really can be an investment. Here's why ...
A traditional tank-style water heater is not an investment. It burns money, has a limited life and does nothing to enhance the value of your home. The fuel can be oil, propane, natural gas, electricity or even wood. These fuels always cost money - the sun is free! High-efficiency models may cost less to operate than standard models, but bottom line is tank-style water heaters keep water stored at 120o 24-hours per day, 365 days per year. So while you are reading this article, your water heater is using fuel to heat water just in case you may need it.
Domestic hot water is used to launder clothes, wash dishes and bathe. It is something we expect to have available when we want it. Most households use hot water in the morning and in the evening. So how does solar hot water work if the sun's not out when we need hot water? Basically, solar hot water systems use the sun to heat water during the day, storing it in a super insulated tank, ready when you need it. Generally systems store twice the daily hot water needs of a family.
Provided the house has an un-shaded southern exposure, solar hot water system will work very well in New Hampshire. Using precise solar measurements and modeling tools it's possible to project what your hot water production will be given site, system, and other variables. Generally, the goal is to provide 70% of household hot water needs with the sun. The remaining 30% of water needs can be met with a backup on- demand water heater or boiler that integrates seamlessly with your solar hot water system.
Typically, we see the breakeven point in the five to seven year range. This equates to approximately a 10% simple return on your investment! We are seeing this high rate of return due to the Federal Renewable Energy Tax Credit (30% of total system cost; with no maximum) and an increased NH Solar Thermal Rebate. While funds are available, the State of New Hampshire is offering a $2,000 rebate for replacing tank-style hot water heaters with a new solar hot water system. In addition, the state is providing a second rebate based on system BTU size.
At the end of the day you have much less water heating expense and a durable improvement to your home. In fact, many solar hot water systems installed in the early 1980's are still functioning reliably day in day out.
Don't have a good southern exposure? Switching to an on-demand water heater will not only save money on fuel (usually about 30%) and makes your home more energy efficient.
Still sitting on the fence? Ask yourself, where do you see fuel prices heading, up or down?
Reducing Home Energy Costs
By Karen Cramton
December 30, 2010
"A penny saved is a penny earned " (Benjamin Franklin).
On average, New Englanders spend 55% of their home energy budget on heating. Making your home more energy efficient will save you money. Here are some ideas to ensure you are keeping the cold out of your home and the heat in this winter!
First a few no cost ideas ? clean warm-air registers, base board heaters and radiators; they work most efficiently when they are clean. Move furniture and drapes away from heaters and radiators to allow the heat to disperse into the room. Make sure carpets and rugs are not blocking heaters. Turn down thermostat or turn off heat in rooms you do not use or use infrequently. Close curtains at night to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. Open curtains during the day and let the sun heat your room!
The next steps cost a little but can add up to big savings. A relatively inexpensive thermal loss evaluation can be had by hiring a professional energy auditor with a thermal image camera. A simple home walk-through can be very useful in guiding your efforts. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal cracks and leaks. These repairs prevent the warm air from escaping and keep the cold air from creeping indoors. Check the following areas for drafts: attic access door/hatch, recessed lights, fans, external doors, skylights and windows. If windows are single pane, or drafty, consider adding another interior layer. Window film, interior window panels and insulated curtains are much less expensive than replacement windows. Made to order interior window panels provide this additional layer and do not require hardware for installation. Another benefit is they are reusable for many years.
Often overlooked, fireplaces and chimneys are also sources of heat loss. Make sure the damper is closed when the fireplace is not in use. Block the fireplace opening with glass doors or a fireplace insert to prevent even more heat loss.
Have your boiler or furnace serviced, it will run more efficiently and use less energy. For forced hot air systems, change your air filter each season.
Other, more expensive, projects include insulation and system upgrades. Ensure there is adequate insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior walls, basement, floors and crawl spaces. Fill in gaps and add new layers of insulation if possible to increase the R-value.
At some point every home?s heater/furnace and hot water heater systems will fail. Have a plan so you can respond proactively, not reactively. When replacing a heating system, consider installing a high-efficiency model. These typically cost a little more up front but will cost less to operate over the life of the system. This may also be a good time to consider switching fuel types. Research your options ahead of time.
As for replacing your hot water heater; did you know that in northern climates, we typically spend between 20% and 25% of our overall energy budget on heating water for domestic use? Switching to an on-demand water heater will not only save money on fuel (usually about 30%) but can provide efficient back-up water heating should solar hot water be installed in the future.
How will you use your "earned" energy savings?
Note: Some suggestions came from "Energy Use less Save More" by Jon Clift and Amanda Culhbert.
The Gift of Awareness - Energy Detective
By Karen Cramton
November 30, 2010
Where are my energy dollars being spent? Does someone on your gift list ask this question? If so, the gift of energy detection may be perfect.
In northern climates, we spend approximately 25% of our energy budget on electricity! Where are we consuming all of this electricity? There are meters and monitors available to show exactly how much energy appliances, lights and refrigerators are consuming. These make great gifts for the curious and will even allow the recipient to save money!
The first level of detection is determining the energy needs of individual appliances and lights (anything that plugs into a wall outlet). The Kill-A-Watt meter tells you how much electricity is being used. There are two models available the Basic and the EZ. Both provide accurate data, but the EZ stores the rate per kilowatt (currently $0.165/KW) and will project hourly, daily, monthly and annual cost of operating a particular appliance. These gadgets are easy to use and the hunt for phantom loads and energy hogs can begin as soon as the box is opened.
Take your detective work to the next level with a whole house energy monitor. The Power Cost Monitor attaches to your electric meter. An optical eye tracks the kilowatt dial spinning and displays real time data anywhere in your home with a remote wireless display. The device installs easily and will build awareness of electricity usage. Put it on your kitchen counter.
The ultimate is to track and log electricity usage. The Energy Detective (TED) enables whole house electricity monitoring, provides a graphical google interface and stores historical data for analysis. Be aware, this monitor offers a level of sophistication that appeals to a certain personality type?.you know any engineers or techies? It?s the perfect gift for the detail oriented person. The device does require hardwiring to your circuit box, so the installation is more complicated and requires some electrical knowledge.
For those that like to read, there are a number of great energy related books available. A few good ones to start with are Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings, New Green Home Solutions and On the Grid. This year, consider giving the gift of knowledge!
Weatherization 101
By Karen Cramton
October 18, 2010
Cooler weather is upon us and now is the perfect time to get your home ready for winter weather. On average, New Englanders spend 55% of their energy budget on home heating. Making your home more energy efficient will save you money. Here are some ideas to ensure you are keeping the cold out of your home and the heat in!
First a few no cost ideas : clean warm-air registers, base board heaters and radiators; they work most efficiently when they are clean. Move furniture and drapes away from heaters and radiators to allow the heat to disperse into the room. Make sure carpets and rugs are not blocking heaters. Turn down or turn off heat in rooms you do not use or use infrequently. Close curtains at night to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. Open curtains during the day and let the sun heat your room!
The next steps cost a little but can add up to big savings. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal cracks and leaks. These repairs prevent the warm air from escaping and keep the cold air out. Check the following areas for drafts: attic access door, external doors, and windows. If windows are single pane or double pane with a broken seal, consider adding another interior layer. Made to order interior window panels provide this additional layer and do not require hardware for installation. Another benefit is they are reusable for many years! Skylights are another example of a heat loss area so consider using window panels for skylights too.
Chimneys are also a source of heat loss. Make sure the damper is closed when the fireplace is not in use. Block the fireplace opening with glass doors or a fireplace insert to prevent even more heat loss.
Other projects include insulation and heating system upgrades. Ensure there is adequate insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors and crawl spaces. Have your boiler or furnace serviced, it will run more efficiently and use less energy.
Remember the 2009/2010 Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credit will expire at end of this year. Upgrading to energy efficient water heaters, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, central air conditioners, building insulation, windows, doors, roofs, and circulating fans used in a qualifying furnace all qualify for this credit. The aggregate amount of credit for all technologies placed in service in 2009 and 2010 combined is limited to 30% of the amount spent up to $1,500. If you haven?t yet used this credit, there are some real deals available when you combine this personal tax credit with the NH Energy Efficiency rebates.
Note: Some suggestions came from "Energy Use less Save More" by Jon Clift and Amanda Culhbert.
Energy Efficiency ... Time is Running Out On Incentives
By Karen Cramton
September 20, 2010
The 2009/2010 Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credit will expire at end of this year. Upgrading to energy efficient water heaters, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, central air conditioners, building insulation, windows, doors, roofs, and circulating fans used in a qualifying furnace all qualify for this credit. The aggregate amount of credit for all technologies placed in service in 2009 and 2010 combined is limited to 30% of the amount spent up to $1,500. If you haven't yet used this credit, there are some real deals available when you combine this personal tax credit with the NH Energy Efficiency rebates.
NH is providing rebates to residents who upgrade to high-efficiency water heaters, gas furnaces, and gas and oil boilers. With rebates ranging from $300 to $1,000, now is a great time to upgrade old, inefficient, appliances. Your initial purchase will cost less and you will use less fuel to heat your home or your water, saving you money in the long run.
Did you know that in northern climates, we typically spend between 20% and 25% of our overall energy budget on heating water for domestic use? Switching to an on-demand water heater will not only save money on fuel (usually about 30%) but can provide efficient back-up water heating should solar hot water be installed in the future. Upgrading now makes sense when you consider the combined federal and state incentives. Therefore, one of the best values this fall is upgrading from a tank-style water heater to a tank-less, on-demand, model. The deal - NH offers a $300 rebate on most tank-less (on-demand) water heaters! This is in additional to the 30% federal tax credit.
Further, we spend on-average 55% of our energy budget on heating our homes. Upgrading to a more efficient furnace or boiler again will further reduce your fuel consumption. NH is offering rebates of $500 or $1,000 depending on the efficiency of the furnace or boiler. Again, this is in additional to the 30% federal tax credit!
Between the federal tax credits and NH rebates for energy efficiency upgrades, investing in energy efficient technologies has never been more affordable. The renewable energy tax credits continue through 2016 and the NH renewable incentives will continue into 2011. Remember, defining energy saving goals and investigating efficient and renewable energy solutions takes time and careful planning.
Senator Peggy Gilmore Visits NEO Solar Store
By Anne Saunders
July 1, 2010
New Hampshire Senator Peggy Gilmour installed a solar-powered hot water heater in her home in the early 1970s. She uses drying racks for her laundry and has a root cellar in her basement. So when the Solar Store ? which offers conservation and alternative energy products ? opened in Hollis last fall, she was curious.
"My husband is a huge conservationist," she explained.
Gilmour (D-Hollis) got a tour of the Post Office Green store from owner Karen Cramton on Tuesday.
Cramton is a former systems engineer who switched careers after she and her husband went through the process of retrofitting their own home to make it more efficient, taking many of the same steps that Gilmour and her husband took in the 70s.
Opening a local store seemed like a good way to help other families and to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy by making it easier for people to see and touch what they were buying.
"I wanted to do something I enjoyed, that I believed in, that I thought would make a difference in the world," Cramton explained of her decision, with her husband, Steve, to launch Nashua Energy Options LLC, doing business as NEO Solar Store.
The store, which opened in October, has been laid out to make it easy for newcomers, she explained to Gilmour.
Many conservation steps can be taken in increments so the store starts with books and brochures closest to the door and then moves on to a display of kilowatt meters that measure electric usage.
By plugging into appliances, a homeowner can determine how much energy each device uses. It also provides a measurable incentive to turn off certain appliances or chargers that aren?t being used. Other energy meters will measure total household electrical use.
"We made a family game of it, to see how low we could go," Cramton said of her efforts to involve her kids in the family?s conservation efforts.
Cramton also has made her store attractive to children by setting up a display of solar-powered robotics kits. She had one teenage customer that afternoon curious to see the solar-powered jumping frog.
Other areas of the store feature wood drying racks since clothes driers are among the greatest household energy users. Another wall in the store features composting supplies ? including a composting toilet.
As Gilmour continued around the circle, she saw a solar storage tank, much like the one in her own home that stores hot water heated by solar collectors on her roof. Cramton also showed her an on-demand hot water heater that heats water so quickly and efficiently that homeowners can avoid maintaining a traditional 40-gallon hot water tank.
Many of these changes can be made in stages if homeowners have a plan, Cramton explained.
She also keeps up on state and federal rebates and tax incentives that help make alternative energy investments more affordable. And she knows where people can go to line up financing. She may be an advocate for conservation and alternative energy, but she doesn?t see herself as a salesman.
As more people do seek out ways to cut their energy costs, Cramton sees her store as a resource. Even those like Gilmour who've already embraced conservation and alternative energy in their own homes can find something they need in the store.
Gilmour walked away that day with a ceramic kitchen compost pail for her home and a solar radio she plans to give as a gift.
"Hollis and the other communities in this area are really fortunate to have this place nearby. I?d love to see our state lead the way in conservation and alternative energy. I?ve benefited from solar power for decades ? it?s really pretty easy to do. This store makes it even easier," Gilmour said.
Grand Opening ? Nashua Energy Options
(Hollis Brookline Journal)
Opting for Green (Nashua Telegraph)
www.nashuatelegraph.com/business/488904-192/opting-for-green.html
What's Your Energy Plan?
By Karen Cramton
June 29, 2010
The coming vacations and lazy summer days ahead offer a chance to reflect on your home?s energy situation. With the tragic events occurring in the Gulf of Mexico and the stock market continuing to bounce up and down, wouldn?t it be nice to have stability and gain control of your home?s energy bills?
Long summer days can lead to increased electricity demand due to air conditioner and fan usage. How can you efficiently control heat in your home during the summer months? A simple measure to take would be utilizing shade by drawing curtains and pulling down shades during the daytime. Keeping your attic well-ventilated and cool can significantly reduce the temperature in your living area. A great way reduce attic heat is to keep the air moving with a solar attic fan. It runs when the sun is out (i.e. when it?s hottest) and requires no electricity!
Are you still using your dryer? Drying racks and clothes lines are the perfect ?renewable energy? solutions to your electric or gas dryer. Added benefits to air drying include lower bills, longer lasting clothes, and better smelling clothes without the use of chemicals. Did you know sunlight naturally bleaches and disinfects?
Power goes out, water heaters start leaking, boilers don?t restart in the fall, water softeners stop working and energy costs increase. What will you do when one of your household systems needs to be replaced? Do you have a plan? Will you replace it with a similar technology, upgrade to a more energy efficient solution or switch to renewable sources? When a system malfunctions decisions and installations need to happen quickly. Research and preplanning will help you make educated, smart, decisions for replacement when the time comes ? usually without notice!
Water heater failure is a great example of an urgent decision that may happen to you. Will you continue to use a traditional tank style hot water heater or make a change? Switching to an on-demand water heater will not only save money on fuel (usually about 30%) but can provide efficient back-up water heating should solar hot water be installed in the future. NH is now offering a rebate on tank-less (on-demand) water heaters! If you currently heat water with electricity, there are highly insulated tanks available which minimize heat loss. In fact, these highly insulated tanks can be converted to solar storage tanks should solar hot water be installed in the future. Having options researched and defined ahead of system failure will enable you to make smart, long term, decisions.
Summer is a great time to think about long term plans for your home. Between the federal tax credits and NH rebates for renewable energy solutions investing in solar hot water and solar electric systems has never been easier and more affordable. There are efficient steps you can take to begin saving money while still positioning your home for renewable energy solutions. Defining energy saving goals and investigating efficient and renewable energy solutions takes time and careful planning. Why not pack a book on energy and efficiency along with that perfect summer beach read? It could end up saving you money on your home?s energy bills.
Nashua Alternative Energy Purveyors Offer Financing Options for Solar Systems
By Jim Cavan & Karen Cramton
June 10, 2010
By now, many who have even remotely entertained the idea of installing a solar energy system have heard about available state and federal rebates. Still, while these programs indeed help absorb part of the initial cost, most have had to pay cash up front for such an investment.
Now, local alternative energy companies themselves are stepping up to the plate, offering their own unique financing options for a whole range of systems and products.
What's more, these financing options can be used in tandem with existing rebates and credits, providing even more incentive to invest in technologies with a proven track record of saving ? and even making ? money for homeowners down the road.
Take the Nashua Energy Options (NEO Solar Store) in Hollis, one of seven USA Solar Stores throughout New Hampshire who have partnered with Holy Rosary Credit Union, a Seacoast area credit union headquartered in Rochester, in an effort to extend attractive financing options for would-be customers.
After searching for prospective banks to partner with, SEA Solar Store Manager Jack Bingham was thrilled to have Holy Rosary on board. "Truth be told, most banks weren't interested at all," says Bingham. "Luckily Holy Rosary saw something in this idea that no other banks did."
According to Bingham, what Holy Rosary saw was a lending opportunity that was far safer than most.
"You look at most banks, and they're willing to lend you 35 grand for a new car, and will give you good rates, for something that in 5 years won't be worth anything," explains Bingham. "What we're offering is an energy system that's going to last you 25 years, cut down on your operating expenses, and save you lots of money. So we felt like we were bringing better customers to the credit union."
While certain rebates and credits aren't actually paid out until the end of the fiscal year, Bingham claims they can still be used to pay down the principal of the loan.
According to Julie Coakley, Director of Lending at Holy Rosary Credit Union, offering comprehensive financ-ing for alternative projects was simply another piece of the credit union's green puzzle. "We already offered home equity loans for certain efficiency measures, so it was really a natural fit," explains Coakley. "When we saw their website and what they were doing, we were impressed and wanted to add this to our initiatives."
Unlike most commercial banks, Holy Rosary is able to extend loans for up to 100% of a home's
invested eq-uity.
While the economic slowdown has caused most banks and other lending institutions to be more cautious about offering large loans, for Coakley and the folks at Holy Rosary Credit Union, the nature of what those loans pay for can ? in the case of a solar system ? invite far more rewards than risks. You may even be able to deduct the interest paid on your home equity loan, although Coakley recommends seeking the advice of a tax counselor beforehand.
"When you look at it from a risk standpoint: yes we finance up to 100 percent, but we feel that what they're putting into their home is increasing the home's value, which is good for everyone," she said.
Jack Bingham echoes that sentiment: "We feel a fair number of customers could afford going solar if they could just get a reasonable loan rate," said Bingham. "We've been accustomed to working with people who have cash to spend on systems like this, but we know there are more people out there that could really benefit if they could just get into a program like this."
NH Solar Stores is a statewide cooperative of renewable energy businesses serving as a local resource for in-formation, education, products, and services spanning energy conservation, energy efficiency, and the many renewable energy options available to customers.
On Earth Day How Can We Make a Difference in Our Own Household?
April 22, 2010
By Karen Cramton
Turning off lights, lowering thermostats and other conservation measures are all good common sense. But did you know approxi-mately 20% of your home's energy use goes to the production of domestic hot water? If you have a standard electric, gas or oil hot water tank you are heating water 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. This is a cost you cannot control directly since water is being heating all of the time regardless of household needs. These tanks are generally under-insulated causing heat loss when hot water is waiting to be used. So, while you are reading this article, fuel is being wasted and heat is being lost. In addition, oil boilers that heat water for domestic use are sized for home heating on the coldest winter night. Therefore, in the summer, boiler burner inefficiencies waste fuel when making only hot water.
Are traditional hot water heaters current technology or obsolete?
Glad you asked because there are energy-efficient options! When thinking about replacing your current hot water heater several al-ternatives exist. Upgrading to a well-insulated hot water heater or insulating your existing tank with wrap-around insulation is a sim-ple step (always check your Owner's Manual first). Another option is to install a tankless water heater. These energy-saving prod-ucts provide an endless supply of hot water on demand. Water is only being heated when it is needed! Tankless water heaters re-quire less space than traditional water tanks. They can produce hot water using a variety of fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil and electricity.
A renewable energy option is solar thermal. Solar thermal systems produce hot water using the sun's free energy. Water is indi-rectly heated by the sun then stored in a well-insulated storage tank. Hot water is ready for home use day and night. Solar hot water systems can generally provide 70% of domestic hot water needs on an annual basis.
So why change? There are a number of economic reasons to change. Energy-efficient home improvements add to your home's value. With solar thermal solutions your fuel usage for hot water is dramatically reduced for 20 + years. This provides for more stable and predictable overall energy costs. Significant Federal and State incentives are available to reduce upfront costs.
Conservation and reducing our fossil fuel usage is good for the Earth. Energy-efficient changes and use of renewable energy leads to reduced carbon footprint. Reducing carbon output helps protect our environment. On Earth Day, let's start to make positive changes!
Hollis Celebrates Earth Day 2010
April 22, 2010
By Karen Cramton
Simple ways to celebrate Earth Day while making big differences to the environment:
- Ride your bike or walk instead of getting in your car.
- Unplug cell phone and other chargers. It's estimated that only 5% of power drawn is
used for charg-ing! - Put electronic devices on a power strip and turn it off when not in use. This will eliminate phantom loads and save you money.
- Turn off the lights when you are not in the room.
- Change a light bulb. CFL bulbs use 75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs; LED
use 90% less! - Wash your clothes in cold water. No energy is wasted heating water.
- Air dry clothes instead of using a dryer. Air drying uses no energy and helps your clothes last longer.
- Recycle your newspaper, clean paper, plastics and glass.
- Turn off the TV and enjoy the outdoors.
- Eat an ice cream cone for dessert. There is no plastic bowl or spoon to throw away or wash.