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Solar Energy Fair Explores Options Available Now

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Aug 28, 2008 11:54 pm US/Mountain

Solar Energy Fair Explores Options Available Now

Written By Paul Day
Reporting
Paul Day
DENVER (CBS4) ― Supporting clean, renewable energy is a priority for the Democratic National Convention and one way that's getting done is by educating delegates about solar energy.

A solar energy fair was timed for maximum publicity around the convention. Making energy from the sun has huge potential, especially in Colorado, but still lacks widespread support.

"Solar has been slow to catch because it's still the more expensive energy option," Monique Hanis with the Solar Energy Industry Association said.

One example of solar technology is a thermal solar system. Water is pumped through solar collectors and heated as hot as steam. The renewable energy is great for things like home heating and hot tubs, but despite tax incentives, consumers pay a premium.

"I would say this solar thermal heating is four to five times the cost of a conventional heating system," David Woycio with Metro Solar Inc. said.

Plan on a payback of up to 12 years, but the founder of Sun Edison, the country's largest solar services provider, says he has a better way. Founder Jigar Shah's company erected the new solar energy park at the Denver Federal Center.

It was a cash deal, but typically Sun Edison will put solar panels on the roof of a business or government building then sell them the power in a long-term agreement with no up-front costs.

"With our solar program they can lock in electricity rates for the next 20 years today," Shah said. "The reason they can do that because once the solar is installed the sunshine is free and maintenance is low."

Right now, solar benefits from a 30 percent investment tax credit, but it's due to expire at the end of the year.

The solar industry wants it extended and claims some customers are not signing contracts until they see what Congress is going to do.

(© MMIX CBS Television Stations, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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