KNOW GOOD SUN FROM BAD

BBB exposes solar energy scams
April 13, 2011 (Consumer Reports)

"As sure as the sun rises in the East, the home improvement scammers come knocking on doors in Spring promising top-notch improvements at cut-rate prices. This year’s favorite flimflam is green, specifically solar, according to the Better Business Bureau.

"The solar scams borrow from the more tried-and-true home improvement ripoffs…[but take advantage of] homeowners who are unfamiliar with solar energy, which is most of us. And because solar installations can cost from $5,000 to $60,000, the financial stakes of a mistake are high…"

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"The BBB advises…[1] Learn how solar energy works. For example, panels facing south that receive maximum sun exposure during the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., will provide the greatest amount of energy…[2] Is solar energy right for you? Conduct a self energy audit. If your monthly bill is less than $100, consider other ways…[3] Make sure your roof is in good repair…though a properly installed solar system will not damage your roof…avoid any future problems…"

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"…[4] Consider all costs. Determine if the benefits and savings outweigh the cost…[5] Check state and federal incentives. State and federal programs can save you as much as 50 percent on installation costs…[6]Be wary of installers that promise no out of pocket costs. Be leery if an installer suggests obtaining credit for the full amount of the system…

"Consumer Reports recently tested four solar water heaters…based on the consumption of hot water by two to four people (80 to 85 gallons per day). The cost, including installation, ranged from $2,500 to $8,500 and we saw annual savings of from 19 to 55 percent. Payback time, including the federal credit, also varied, ranging from 5 years to 33. How much you save in your home may differ based on climate and usage..."