Solar rebate programs start in Feb.

MONTROSE  — Delta Montrose Electric Association got the final word from the Governor’s Energy Office and will be able to provide solar energy rebates again in 2009.

Last week, the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) and the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association announced that DMEA could administer their Solar Rebate Programs in Montrose and Delta counties.

Starting in February, DMEA residential members that install a photovoltaic and/or solar hot water system may be eligible for rebates as part of the program.

DMEA will rebate $3 per watt up to a $9,000 maximum for a residential photovoltaic (PV) installation. Solar hot water installations may qualify for a maximum $3,000 rebate, according to a DMEA news release. With a combination of the rebate and federal tax credits, DMEA members could save 50 to 55 percent on the initial cost of solar installations to help reduce a homeowner’s energy costs.

DMEA is able to administer the rebates because they provided $50,000 in matching funds; the GEO also provided a $50,000 grant.

The program was created by the GEO in response to growing demands for renewable energy initiatives to help homeowners. By partnering with  DMEA, the funding for rebates is effectively doubled.

DMEA will begin accepting rebate applications in February.

For more information, visit DMEA’s Web site at www.dmea.com, or visit www.coseia.org or www.colorado.gov/energy.

DMEA is also hosting an information meeting on these solar technologies and the rebate program on Friday, Jan. 23 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at its Montrose headquarters. Interested parties need to RSVP by calling (877) 687-3632 or 249-4572.