are there grants for solar??

[lyne]

we live in southcentral missouri on a very limited income. we would like to start turning the house to solar power. are problem is the cost. does anyone know of personal grants that will help in the purchase of solar equipment? i have found information for corporations but not personal. thanks lyne

[MadTripper]

We have one in PA called the Energy Harvest Grant. I'm not sure it covers residential applications however it did a few years ago. I'm sure there is something that will help, the issue is everyone is looking for these grants now. A few years ago, the number of applicants was tiny, it is much higher at this point with good reason.

This might be a good start for you.

http://www.dnr.mo.gov/energy/renewables/solardata.htm


Tripper

[12vman]

Grants are OK but just remember that the person(s) who provides the cash sets the rules..

If you are not licensed or bonded to install alternative energy products then you personally can't do the install. A large portion of the grant money will go to pay the high wages of certified installers which is a requirement of grants. You"ll need keep maintenance records of the system and provide that info to them on a regular basis. Do you really want to be controlled like that? You don't save a lot if you look at the numbers and the stipulations, IMO..

Do some serious planning on the size of system that you desire and build it yourself! No strings attached.. 8)

http://www.siliconsolar.com/build-your-own-solar-panel-kits-p-16188.html

$170 for 42 watts is a great price! Buy 200 watts and get it for $2.95 a watt!
~Don

[walls0stone]

no strings unless you know how to play the game and set up a non-proffit business that pays you a fat check for being the presedent of said company.... in other words.. are you underhanded with the ability to pay off a few people?

[bee_pipes]

There are probably grants out there, and there are grants and tax breaks for all kinds of stuff. We have one called the "Green Belt" - it's a tax break for agricultural properties. We don't apply for it because I don't want the government getting into my business or telling me what to do. I don't like taxes, but I value my privacy and freedom more.

Regards,
Pat