SunPower Builders - Since 1972

The Big Apple Christmas Spectacle: Rockefeller Tree

2011-12-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

We couldn't get through the holidays without a holiday blog post-the demands of the age of technology . But, hopefully this one gets you thinking. We don't have any ideas for compostable or reusable gifts...but the "greening" of Christmas is an interesting trend to follow. The Rockefeller tree has undergone the transformation, the green transformation that is. But how green is it? The "Huff Post Green" recently questioned the success of this transformation. This questioning brings to light a thought process that is important always and especially this season, "green" is marketable-do your research.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/harris-silver/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree_b_1125549.html

On the flip side, for the past 4 years the Rockefeller tree trunk has been donated as lumber to "Habitat for Humanity", check out this video on the recent recipients of their "Rockefeller Tree" house.

http://hudsonvalley.ynn.com/content/top_stories/566604/rockefeller-christmas-tree-crafted-into-new-home/

The "Secrets" aren't so Secret. Start with Simple.

2011-12-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

Norbert M. Lechner of Solar Today enlightens us in this recent article.

http://www.solartoday-digital.org/solartoday/20111112/#pg48

*check out the building rotation diagram!!

Just because these ideas are not sold for money doesn't mean that they are not important. It is easy to identify necessary actions with a monetary cost, but here we recognize decisions and processes that contribute to harnessing solar energy to its fullest potential.

Although the following highlights in responsible solar design may seem obvious, keep your eyes peeled for a truly "solar responsible" building by design. Lechner points out to us that many modern architecture designs and promotions directly inhibit passive solar benefits.

PV should be used as a complementary strategy of using solar energy, not as a replacement to these “solar smart” actions

What are passive solar techniques?

o Form and orientation

o Size

o Number of windows

o Location of windows

o Solar heat gain coefficient of the glazing of windows

o Daylighting

o Shading-most of the world population lives in hot and humid climate conditions! This can make a big difference!

o Landscaping around the building

o Color of the roof and walls

Integrity, Workmanship, Honesty and Competence: A Testimonial

2011-07-08T05:21:00.000-07:00

“Bill and I work hard for our money so we think long and hard about how we spend it. Like many people, our home is our largest investment - besides, it is where we raised our family and we are rooted in our community. When we thought about choosing a contractor for a new solar system at our home, cost was important of course; but equally important to us were integrity, workmanship, honesty and competence. We found all of these things in Jon Costanza and his team.

At first the vocabulary of solar technology was new and intimidating to us. Jon and his staff took the time we needed to explain the technology, walked us through the grant process, and showed us how it would work and look at our home. They filed paper work and patiently answered all our questions thoroughly and professionally. We are delighted with our new solar powered system and delighted that we chose SunPower Builders.”

Bill and Mary
West Chester, PA

PA Solar and Wind Expo a Success!

2011-06-27T11:33:00.000-07:00

On June 11^th and 12^th, Sunpower Builders and Jon Costanza participated in the Solar and Wind Expo at the Valley Forge Convention Center. The Expo was well attended and showcased a variety of vendors, all specializing in the sustainable market, including producers, financiers and top experts in the field.

Jon Costanza was a popular speaker, engaging attendees with two presentations; “Solar Homes, 1711 – 2011: From Commonsense to Green Building, and “ 4 Decades of Solar and Ecological Design and Construction: A Practical Perspective. One listener, hoping to speak to Jon personally after his Sunday talk said, Costanza was “extremely informative and the speech was packed with useful information”.

PA State Rep Wants to Stabilize the Solar Industry

2011-05-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Here is some great press on the efforts of Representative Ross and his dedication to making sure the solar energy industry in PA stays as strong as it can be.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11145/1148916-454.stm#ixzz1NQSh0dBi

Solar Term of the Month: SRECs or Solar Renewable Energy Credits.

2011-05-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

We posted last week about the price of SRECs - so it makes an excellent choice for our Solar Term this month.

The state of Pennsylvania, as well as many other states, requires electricity suppliers to provide a percentage of their electricity sales from solar generation – this requirement, stipulated through legislation, is called a Renewable Portfolio Standard. If the electricity suppliers and distributors do not meet their requirement, they must pay a

penalty called an Alternative Compliance Payment.

This means that electricity suppliers/distributors will a) Have to construct large solar arrays to provide sustainable electricity or b) More likely, they will purchase this power in the form of “Credits” from homeowners and businesses that have solar installed on their homes and facilties. If you own solar photovoltaics, you produce SRECs, which can be sold on the open market like any commodity. Price per SREC varies and fluctuates with the market, and will continue to do so, but current pricing is approximately $125/SREC (you can visit www.srectrade.com for info. on current pricing and recent sales!) SunPower will take care of registering your system and aggregating your SRECs.

SREC Credits Are Dropping In Value

2011-05-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

The solar industry and its customers are currently experiencing a dramatic drop in the price of solar credits due to the lack of market demand for solar credits. This situation is getting worse and it is not going to improve for the next few years because the number of solar credits utilities need to comply with the law is set too low for the number of projects currently in operation or planned. The result is there is virtually no market for Pennsylvania SRECs.

Four things you can do to help today!

1. Contact your House Member now and ask him/her to co-sponsor Representative Chris Ross’ bill to fix the solar requirement. The bill provides an easy “bridge” solution by adjusting the requirement in years 2012-2015 and restricting out of state projects so that Pennsylvania ratepayers would have to pay for out of state development of solar. If you are not sure who your Representatives are, it’s easy to find out: go at www.legis.state.pa.us – in the upper right hand corner, enter your zip code and you will see their contact information.

2. Stay on top of developments and participate by joining PASEIA or contributing to the saving solar campaign . Go to: www.mseia.org and click on the PA state icon for information.

3. Come to Harrisburg for the launch of our legislative campaign on May 24th. Press conference at the capitol at 10AM followed by visits to legislative offices. This is a key event to show businesses and the public are interested in seeing this problem fixed.

4. Plan to be an active participant on this issue until the legislator’s adjoin for the summer (around June 30)

Solar Cars to Stop Traffic in Philadelphia This Saturday

2011-05-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

The Junior Solar Sprint will take place outside of the Franklin Institute this weekend, and will include 140 solar powered cars built and raced by Philadelphia’s youth.

Philadelphia, PA May 12th, 2011: It may be cloudy this Saturday May 14th, but the race will go on at the Franklin Institute for nearly 350 students who designed and built their own solar powered cars in preparation to compete at the 18th annual Junior Solar Sprint.

The race will take place on the Winters Street side of the Franklin Institute, who sponsors the event every year. There are 3 categories: Speed, Technical Merit, and Creativity. Local artists and members of the Eastern Electric Vehicle Club will judge a first, second, and third place prize for each category, as well as award one car as Most Outstanding. There is also an adult division, and the contest is open to anyone who wants to participate.

Winter Street will close for the event and the public is invited to come along and cheer for their favorite solar powered car during the race. Jon Costanza of SunPower Builders, a Collegeville based ecological design firm and solar installer who is also sponsoring the Solar Sprint, says “We’ve been involved with this race for nearly 20 years, and we always have lots of fun. We hope to educate and excite schools and kids so that they grow up with solar technologies becoming common place in their thoughts and their communities.”

Other contributors include Trader Joe’s who donated cereal bars and Arnold’s Way Café who will provide green smoothies to the participants and onlookers.

The annual event is held at many locations throughout the East Coast and is coordinated by NESEA. The Philadelphia race is held by the local division, PSEA, and managed in the Philadelphia area by Joe Bruno. The winners from this event will go on to compete at the regional level held in Springfield, MA in June. Rain date: Sunday, May 15th at 9am.

For more info on the Junior Solar Sprint, contact Joe Bruno, 610.639.1813

Spring Newsletter Snippet- Spotlight on Solar

2011-05-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Our Spotlight on Solar client became a good friends of ours over the course of designing and installing their new solar system. Mark and Nancy Johnson, owners of The Riding Ringmasters, brought solar to their beautiful home where they house horses, their business, and their family.

Read the full story here: SunPower Builders Spring Newsletter

Solar Is On The Rise

2011-05-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

The U.S. solar market grew 67 percent between 2009 and 2010 and is now a $6 billion market, according to a recent report from Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and GTM Research. The report saw growth potential in the space as more and more utilities seek to build installations for themselves, or source solar electricity for their portfolio.

Worldwide demand for solar is also expected to grow to a $113.6 billion industry by 2020, according to a recent report from Clean Edge.

To learn more:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-20046216-54.html

Jon Costanza: President, SunPower Builders

2011-05-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

"So here it is: My hope lies in Massive Change. I hope that we will learn to coexist with our planet and our neighbors. The hope is that we can bridge the gap from today to the future with common sense, respect and conservation."

Did you know....

2011-04-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

Germany is on the Green fast track. Despite being one of the cloudiest countries in the world they are a leader in solar energy, proving clouds don't cancel out the sun's power, and potential. The country also holds an annual contest for the "German Sustainability Award," which encourages companies to operate sustainably while raising awareness for the cause.

The German Green Party is paying extra attention to their capital city, Berlin, whose Parliament building is now warmed by geothermal heat and generates its electricity using refined canola oil. The city is also teeming with bike lanes, electric cars, and grass roofs. The best part? Berliners believe that “sustainability can be sexy, and that environmental consciousness and creativity go hand in hand.” Way to go Berlin!

PA Sunshine Grant Is In Final Tier - Act Now To Save On A New Solar System

2011-04-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

If you or someone you know lives in Pennsylvania and is thinking about going solar, now is the time! The PA Sunshine Solar Program is in the final tier of rebate funds, and there will be no warning when they run out completely.

The grant began with $100 million in rebate funds and is now down to its last $5 million in a few short years. The popularity of this rebate program shows what a great asset it can be for new PV and Thermal Solar System residential or small business owners, and we would love to help you take advantage before the funds are gone. Contact SunPower Builders today and we can help you get the most return on your solar investment by taking advantage of this rebate program now!

Official PA Sunshine Solar Program Site

Solar Blog Pick Worth Watching

2011-04-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

A leader in the solar industry, Jeff Spies has a beautiful, and very informative blog that we love to follow. Jeff posts on anything from Tradeshow tips, to industry news, to training standards in the solar field, and his writing is quite clear and easy to read.

To see Jeff Spies’ latest post detailing exciting new electrical cars that use solar panels to provide energy and therefore consume less gas, visit his Blog at:

http://www.solarspies.net/blog/

Solar - It's Not All Bad News

2011-03-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of downers in the solar field – rebate money is depleting, Congress won’t back us, Solar jobs may be on the decline…however it’s always nice to remember the good news too.

Recently President Obama has pledged to generate 80% of America’s electricity from clean sources by 2035, which may be a difficult task, but shows that energy efficiency is on the minds of those in charge, which is encouraging.

There are also recent advancements in technologies of solar panels, which can lower the cost of creating energy from the sun, and take up less space to do so. Floating solar panels will begin testing in September 2011 in the East of France on the expanses of a hydo-electricity facility’s water surface. Scientists predict that by June 2012 they will have enough information on the productivity of the new floating solar panels to release to the market. This is great news for the solar industry as two of the highest difficulties are finding the space to install the panels, and the cost of maintenance. If these new panels work as predicted, both of the difficulties will be reduced and could potentially make solar energy much more accessible. Read more about the future...Floating Solar Panels

Rejoice in encouraging news!

SunPower Afrique - February Newsletter

2011-02-22T11:45:00.000-08:00

Read about our nonprofit's latest achievements and plans for 2011

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=450350fe6aba0a22d432828ca&id=fbeefbb933&e=02a253ded7

A Victory for Solar, A Victory for the Environment and Job Creation

2011-01-07T08:12:00.000-08:00

Our recently-completed 66 kilowatt installation at Victory Brewing Co. in Downingtown, PA means local investment and local jobs."That's energy money spent right here in Pennsylvania," said a spokesman for Sen. Andy Dinniman at the event."It's a wonderful example of smart energy investment in Pennsylvania." Victory brewers Ron Barchet and Bill Covaleski said government incentive money is money well spent.

"From our viewpoint as a business, it enticed us to jump in," Covaleski said."It made the deal more palatable and more attractive."
"I think the real hope is that these incentives will kick-start the manufacture of solar to bring the prices down so that solar energy could be more cost-effective without any subsidies in the future," Barchet added. A monitoring system inside the bar area promotes education and advocacy as it shows electricity Victory generates and uses. "We're in a unique position to show environmental leadership and hopefully, that will entice others to do the same," Covaleski said. We hope so!

Over $120,000 lost in Shale Revenue to date

2011-01-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

Over $120,000 lost in revenues from PA having no Marcellus Shale tax to date. Every other state has it- we are looking at cuts in early childhood services, human service programs, environmental protection, agricultural programs, libraries and state parks.
Environmental Protection and Conservation and Natural Resources funding was collectively cut by 24% under the current budget, and the Oil and Gas Lease Fund was recently diverted away from environmental uses.
The Senate adjourned in October without taking up a severance tax bill, despite promising to enact the tax in last summer’s state budget agreement.Governor Rendell said the severance tax is “clearly dead” this year.
Governor-elect Tom Corbett took $3 million from the oil and gas industry, more than any other candidate in the last election cycle.

Treasury Grant Program extension will create jobs

2010-12-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

The Department of Energy Treasury Grant Program for renewables has been extended until the end of 2011. This is good news for large commercial solar. What does it mean for the economy? Independent studies estimate that since the program was initiated in July 2009, the Grant Program has created some 20,000 jobs. If the program is extended, it will help create 65,000 more jobs in the solar industry.
Part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009, The Treasury Grant Program allows those who qualify for an investment tax credit to receive a cash grant instead. If not extended, the loss of the Program would have placed ten billion dollars of renewable energy investment at risk.

Solar to take a back seat in next Congress

2010-12-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

Even with the recent passage of the Treasury Grant Program, which continues for one year the 30% cash grant for businesses installing solar, this 111th Congress has been no big friend to renewables. A recent study predicts that Republicans in the upcoming Congress will push for more extraction of traditional fossil fuels, resist regulation of carbon emissions, and replace mandates with incentives.

A Dec. 15 post by Solarnation quotes the study by Ernst & Young, and recalls that the House Republicans pre-election "Pledge to America" specifically opposes cap and trade. "

Ernst & Young fully expect Republicans to oppose, delay and hamper EPA rulemaking on regulation of carbon emissions under the Clean Air Act."

According to Solar nation, "it’s also anticipated that Democratic Senator Jay Rockefeller (WV) will introduce a bill to delay for two years EPA authority to regulate stationary sources, his part of a deal reached with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to compensate her for the failure of her resolution of disapproval of EPA carbon regulation back in March.

Corbett appoints Walker of PA. Coal Assoc.

2010-12-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

Governor-elect Tom Corbett this week nominated C. Alan Walker of Clearfield County to head the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Walker is the President of Bradford Energy Company, and past president of the Pennsylvania Coal Association. We will stay tuned to find out what this appointment means to the future of Pennsylvania's growing clean energy economy and the more than 100,000 jobs in the thriving clean energy sector.

Will PA lose solar jobs?

2010-12-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

It is amazing to think that PA is Second only to California in solar jobs, with our conservative .05 percent solar share of our renewable energy portfolio (we have 6700 jobs, California has 36,000). Already, though, we are making more solar energy than utilities are required to purchase, and if the "solar share" is not increased, these green jobs will go away.

Copper Mountain open, largest solar farm in U.S.

2010-12-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

Copper Mountain, the largest solar facility in the U.S., opened last week. The 48-megawatt plant in Boulder City, NV., can generate enough electricity to power about 14,000 homes. The solar farm incorporates 775,000 thin-film solar photovoltaic panels that are designed to change the harvested sun power into electricity directly.

First Solar Pope?

2010-12-03T06:15:00.000-08:00

We love the concept of a solar "popemobile," but the real story is that, according to SolarWorld, a company that worked with the Vatican on the auditorium installation, the Holy See is also considering a 100-megawatt solar facility on Vatican land in the outskirts of Rome.

Leftover stimulus funds remaining hope for tax credit grants

2010-11-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

CNN Money

The White House has proposed to extend cash grants for renewable energy projects using leftover stimulus payments, CNN Money reports today.

If Republicans object to handing out checks, they could be amenable to using funds, or increasing state mandates that would require utilities

to buy a certain percent of their power from renewable energy as part of a broader "clean energy" standard that includes nuclear and natural gas.

About 30 states already have such a mandate, and the industry has been pushing hard for a federal standard of at least 15%.

Joe Biden praises solar grants, but little hope of extension

2010-11-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

Vice President Biden is calling for the extension of Recovery Act policy that has allowed solar applicants to take a 30% tax credit in the form of a cash grant, and has helped to get 1,000 megawatts in solar started this year.

Created last year, the tax credit program has sustained thousands of jobs in construction and installation and supplied enough power for up to 220,000 homes.

It has doubled the solar capacity installed in 2009 and nearly tripled that of 2008.

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the already-existing tax credit allowance was converted to cash grant disbursement. Without the cash grant component, applicants completing projects will have to wait until after they file their taxes to receive payment, which could prove to be a damper on investment.

Prospects of an extension are dim in a lame-duck session of Congress where many now want to roll back the gains made in advancing renewables.

D.O.E. Creates Renewables Advisory Committee

2010-11-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Department of Energy today established the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Advisory Committee, a 19- member federal advisory committee whose members will report directly to the Secretary of Energy with recommendations for renewables.
"They will be contributing their expertise and experience to help address the energy challenges faced by our nation," said Secretary Chu. See the full story at: http://xrl.us/bh734m

Sunshine Money Going...

2010-08-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

The unfortunate word from DEP is that the PA Sunshine Program funds are nearly exhausted.

Small business funds have been dried up for several months, but as DEP has been working to bring in additional dollars from the remaining stimulus funding, we remain optimistic that the commercial program will continue to fund projects for a little while longer.

The Residential Program, now in Tier 3 ($1.24/Watt) has arrived at the same turning point. Reservations online show that the program is at capacity, but no reservation is final until the complete mailed-in portion has been approved by the Department and an email confirmation sent out. Many projects have dropped out of the queue (and more may begin to fall off as we approach more and more 12 month deadlines), allowing for more applications to be considered. We think that this will indeed be the case.

Until an official notice is sent out from the Department that the program is closed, SunPower will continue to submit applications and procure solar rebates for our customers.

However, the eleventh hour has arrived for the PA Sunshine Program - if you've been interested in going solar all along, and were waiting for the right moment...here it is!

Please contact carrie@sunpowerbuilders.com for an estimate - get the remaining rebate dollars while they last!

Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) Solar Grant Funds Exhausted

2010-07-08T11:54:00.001-07:00

For better or for worse...the Solar Energy Grant Program administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (the CFA) has allocated the entirety of its $80M funding resource for LARGE-SCALE solar projects in PA.
The remaining $24M was reserved for the following projects: http://www.newpa.com/newsroom/news-detail/index.aspx?nid=495
SunPower did successfully procure a grant for a volunteer fire company in Schuylkill County - a very worthy recipient :)

Misleading Inquirer Article muddies the TRUTH About the PA Alternative Energy Tax Credit

2010-06-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, a misleading article was published in the Philadelphia Inquirer. As a result of the calls and emails that have been coming in from solar clients and potential clients, SunPower would like to clear up any misunderstanding as a result of this article, “PA Quietly Drops Alternative Energy Tax Credit."
Please see our LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
14 June, 2010

To Whom it May Concern:

We, members of the PA solar industry, are disappointed in the misleading nature of this weekend’s article on the PA 15% alternative energy investment tax credit. Based on the large number of calls and emails many PA solar service providers have received, many readers were apparently left with the mis-impression that the popular PA Sunshine Program (which provides direct rebates) was somehow curtailed. Only the short-lived PA investment tax credit has been removed.

The 15% PA tax credit was only applicable to a handful installations that took place between the previous grant availability and the opening of the Sunshine Program…there was a 3 month window in which to qualify and was not at all a large incentive in the grand scheme of alternative energy incentives. Importantly, those that were under the impression that they were eligible for the tax credit were misled by ill-informed salespeople – consumers should be more concerned about finding a qualified contractor.

We would like to set the record straight, that the $180 million set aside for the PA Sunshine Program through a BOND (not through the General Fund or other fluid financial mechanism) is not going to disappear without notice. On the contrary, once a qualified project receives a rebate reservation, it is just that, reserved. We, the PA solar industry, hope to reassure existing and future solar enthusiasts in PA that the funds they rely upon to finance their projects are not exhausted until the $180 million has been fully allocated. The Federal tax credit, similarly, has been legislated by the Federal Government through 2016.

Respectfully,

The Pennsylvania Solar Energy Industries Association (http://www.mseia.net/)

With special input from:

Andrew Kleeman, Mercury Solar Systems
Kira Costanza, SunPower Builders
Nick Baker, Aztec Solar Power
Nate Ruhl, MT Ruhl Electrical Contractors

Busy Summer Solar Season - PLEASE JOIN US at our upcoming FREE SOLAR SEMINARS

2010-06-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

In addition to a packed schedule of installations and policy work (to pass House Bill #2405 critical to the continued growth of the solar industry!) SunPower is pleased to offer several FREE SOLAR SEMINARS and educational sessions this summer.

LEARN FROM THE BEST! SunPower was here long before the Sunshine Program and we will be here long after the Sunshine Program - go solar with PA's most experienced contractor.

On JULY 12th at 7PM at the Lower Providence Community Library, SunPower Solar will be offering a free seminar on how to implement Solar Electric & Solar Thermal (hot water & pool heating) Systems for homeowners & businesses. The seminar will focus on how solar systems work, available incentives, grants & financing in PA & how to get started going solar.

Please visit http://lpc.mclinc.org/adult_solar_pgrm.htm for more information - RSVPs appreciated to mwadsworth@mclinc.org.

A similiar seminar will be offered at a SunPower client's home on JULY 20th at 6:30PM. See a recently installed solar electric AND solar hot water system at a PA residence in Elkins Park, PA. This event is being hosted by the homeowner - take this opportunity to hear firsthand experience from a PA resident. Please email kira@sunpowerbuilders.com or call 610.489.1105 if you would like to receive an invite. Attendance is free and light refreshments will be served.

Interested in holding a seminar at your home or business? Let us know! Generous referral fees offered - we take pride in our positive word of mouth!

What Makes a Good Roof for Solar?

2010-05-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

While getting started on your research on going solar, in addition to learning about incentives and tax credits, payback and financing, analysis of your site is critical to a successful project.

SunPower has found that rooftop installations and ground mounted installations are equally popular, based on your site's constraints and aesthetic considerations.

Often, to install a larger system or if township ordinances prohibit solar installations on the street-facing side of your home (even if that is the south-facing side!) consumers will go with a ground mounted system. Such as this project, installed in Bluebell, PA.

One of the benefits of a ground mount is the ability to orient it 180 degrees due south and tilt it at 35-40 degrees, ideal for our area.
So what makes a good roof?
* ORIENTATION: South (180 due south is ideal, but any south facing roof will work. SunPower will perform a thorough analysis to determine the output of your site's specific sun angle.) East-West roofs can also work
* SHADING: None! Any shading is not ideal, as long as you get good sun from 9am- 3pm however a solar system will work.
* AGE: The younger the better.
Please visit this site for more information:
http://www.getsolar.com/blog/what-makes-a-roof-good-for-solar/6928/

Celebrate with SunPower Afrique!

2010-05-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

May 11th 2010, was a momentus day for SunPower Afrique, and the first physical, tangible step towards the pilot project in June. The container has been loaded!

At approximately 4PM a tractor trailer pulling a 20 foot Maersk shipping container labored its way down Pechins Mill Road, executed a 35 point turn and grunted to a halt amidst the boxes and packaged solar equipment being shipped to Togo on May 18th.

The entire SunPower team, including SunPower Builders employees and SunPower Afrique volunteers (often one in the same these days...!) made this possible throughout the past 2 weeks. I am eternally grateful. Last minute runs to the electrical supply house, frantic phone calls to Conway and UPS tracking packages and confirming shipments, rigorous testing of all system components...

Miraculously, when the truck arrived, so had everything else...except for one 21lb package containing an inverter controller, which we will carry with us in a month, along with all of the other items we realize-we-might-possibly-need-and-didn't-already-bring-3-extras :)

For 2 hours, we loaded the container. All items were boxed and itemized, protected and secured and lifted into the gaping mouth of the giant, echoing metal box that will carry our prized cargo across the ocean.

Please support the project! You can make a tax-deductible donation by mail or online: http://www.sunpowerafrique.org/ (80 Pechins Mill Road - Collegeville, PA - 19426)

Protect the PA Solar Market! Help us pass House Bill #2405!

2010-05-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

PA Alternative Energy Legislation - Now or Never

HB 80, one of the most important pieces of legislation for the solar industry in PA's history, kicked around the PA House of Representatives for over a year. Now HB80 has a new life.

It is now HB#2405 and has a new chief sponsor: Rep. Eugene DePasquale, York. The bill is stronger for the solar industry and recent coalition building has created a large and effective group to counter our well-mobilized opponents, the utility companies and the PA Chamber of Business and Industry.

We have 6 weeks to pass HB2405!

The bill puts in place measures to enable financing for solar projects and provide reliability and price stability to PA’s energy grid through the increased use of solar and other renewables. (Specifically, the bill increases the solar share of PA’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard from .5% to 3%, front loads SREC requirements in the early years of the ramp-up to avoid a saturated market, and sets a firm Alternative Compliance Payment.) HB2405 ensures the continued growth of the PA solar industry and positions PA to be a leading solar market in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Call your representatives and tell them to pass HB2405 now to support jobs, businesses and solar in PA!

Find your rep. here: http://www.legis.state.pa.us/

Simple talking points and more information about HB2405 can be found here:

http://www.themarea.org/energybill.shtml

http://www.paseia.blogspot.com/

SUNPOWER BUILDERS SUPPORTS HB2405. PLEASE JOIN US.

Sales Position Opening at SunPower

2010-05-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

Looking to get in to the solar industry with an established contractor?

SunPower is looking for an experienced salesperson to contribute to the sustainable growth of our company.

Will work closely with CEO and project developers to bring in and cultivate new leads, generate sales from new and existing leads and participate in residential and commercial project development and customer relations.

Required: Excellent written and communication skills, interpersonal skills, flexibility, genuine interest in solar and in SunPower, significant sales experience.

Experience in the solar industry and/or understanding of the financing of solar projects is a plus, but not required.

Please email cover letter and resume to kira@sunpowerbuilders.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Barriers to Solar? Working with Local Governments and Municipalities proves more and more critical!

2010-04-19T08:55:00.001-07:00

Posted by Kira Costanza

Much of my policy work in Harrisburg has revolved around removing obstacles to the deployment of solar in the past 6-9 months.

Since the PA Sunshine program opened and solar installations began appearing throughout the state, local code officials and townships, having never been faced with such a permit application, have responded in one of 2 ways - constructive inquisitiveness or flat out mistrust.

First, they ask questions. They want to learn and work with us to understand wiring diagrams, safety and structural concerns and general information about solar systems. At SunPower we love the opportunity to educate local government on the process of going solar and how to facilitate more and more installations in their municipalities. We share a draft solar ordinance and Municipal Guidebook, created after months of hard work in the Gov's Solar Working Group. We also invite inspectors and code officials ot visit our installations and learn about solar! This approach has proved mutually beneficial, and we encourage all PA installers, new and old, to remain engaged with townships in which you are working, to support the continued growth of our industry. No permit = no project, and more often than not, a friendly explanation can help to push even those that are inherently distrustful of something new, to embrace solar energy.

Here is an example (of many!) of this mentality in PA:
http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/west/index.ssf?/base/news/1271285756226990.xml&coll=1

This article states that "commissioners don't want solar panels piling up willy-nilly in residential neighborhoods" and Until this mentality shifts, both amongst consumers (who still often do not want solar panels installed on the 'front' of their roof - even if it is the south-facing side!) AND code officials, solar will not take its place in our communities as a permitted use and as our energy future.

Having trouble with a township? Call us! We'd love to help out.
610.489.1105 - ask for Kira.

Kira Costanza to Speak at GO GREEN EXPO

2010-04-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

Please visit SunPower at the Go Green Expo this weekend at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks - we are BOOTH #318.

Free and discounted passes available! Please contact kira@sunpowerbuilders.com if you would like one!

Kira will be speaking on this panel on Friday the 16th at 12:30PM:

Green Entrepreneurs: Case Studies in Success

Leanne Kruger-Braneky, Sustainable Business Network of Philadelphia

Bradford Rand, Go Green Expo

Paige Wolf, Paige Wolf Media and Public Relations

Tim Cassidy, Green-BusinessPlans.com

Jan Marie Rushforth, Rushforth Solar LLC

Kira Costanza, SunPower Builders / SunPower Solar

Hope to see you this weekend!

SunPower Builders Spring Newsletter 2010 and New Referral Program!

2010-04-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S ON SUNPOWER'S HORIZON

After record snowfalls in PA, we are thrilledto be back on the roof! SunPower continues to lead the SouthEastern PA solar market with its experienced designers, installers, project developers and policy experts. SunPower’s spring schedule is packed with solar electric and solar hot water installations for local homes and businesses, including a 66kW PV system at Victory Brewing Company! We continue to grow and are again expanding our facilities in Collegeville, this time to include warehousing space.

We have also launched an exciting REFERRAL PROGRAM! We have always received the majority of our business through word of mouth…and we would like to reward you for it!

Existing customers, potential customers or solar enthusiasts in general can send interested parties our way and earn referral fees to show SunPower’s appreciation for their efforts. Please visit http://sunpowerbuilders.com/solar-referral.html to learn more.

POLICY UPDATE

SunPower always has its finger on the pulse of solar policy in PA as a result of its membership and active participation in groups such as the Mid - Atlantic Solar Energy Industries Association, the Governor’s Solar Working Group, the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance (KEEA) and other stakeholder groups. Kira Costanza is frequently in Harrisburg to lobby and ensure that SunPower is always well informed and able to connect our customers to the best solar resources possible! (no pun intended…) This spring SunPower’s policy work will focus on the development of PASEIA, a new version of House Bill 80, which increases requirements for PA utilities to distribute solar energy, and the continued success of the PA Sunshine Rebate Program. Please visit this SunPower Blog for regular updates on the status of state programs and ways you can help support solar in PA.

~ UPCOMING EVENTS ~

Please visit SunPower at the exciting upcoming events to celebrate Earth Day and the arrival of Spring!

April 8 (6:30PM – 8PM) – ‘River to Tap’ PennEnvironment& Guardians of the Brandywine Fundraiser Victory Brewing Company

April 16-18 – Go Green Expo
Greater Philadelphia Expo. Center at Oaks
http://www.gogreenexpo.com/

April 17 (1PM-4PM) - Rep. Briggs Family Green Fest
Bryn Mawr College, Merion Green

April 18 – Lower Providence Earth Day Event http://www.lowerprovidence.org/events.htm

April 23 (1PM – 3:30PM) – Montgomery School Earth DayFair http://www.montgomeryschool.org/

April 24 (11AM – 2PM) Local Alternative Energy and Environmental Resource ExpoSpring-Ford District 9th Grade Center, Royersford PA

May 9 (11AM – 5PM) - The Willowdale Steeplechase http://www.willowdale.org/

May 15 (10AM-4PM) – North Wales Community Day http://www.northwalesborough.com/

April 22 - Earth Day Celebrates 40th Anniversary!

SUNPOWER PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

KAUFFMAN - GAMBER PHYSICAL THERAPY

In 2004, SunPower installed a 4.8kW solar PV system and a 6 collector solar thermal system for the progressively minded environmentalists at Kauffman- Gamber Physical Therapy in Lancaster, PA. The project was funded with a grant from PA’s first solar grant program, the Sustainable Development Fund, and a grant from the Sustainable Energy Fund. At that time, Kauffman-Gamber and SunPower were true solar pioneers in PA, and it is almost surreal, and wonderful, to see what has happened since!

Continuing their commitment to solar, Kauffman-Gamber has recently increased their PV system to 9.6kW with a PA Sunshine Grant. SunPower offers a special thanks Ben and Tim
Kauffman for their tireless enthusiasm for solar and the great partnership we have established over the years.

BEFORE

AFTER

S U N P O W E R B U I L D E R S & S U N P O W E R S O L A R

P A ' S O R I G I N A L S O L A R C O M P A N Y

T. 610.489.1105 F. 610.489.6608 Collegeville, PA 19426 http://www.sunpowerbuilders.com/

Solar:Beer as SunPower:Victory

2010-03-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

Check out this blog written by Victory Brewing's Bill Covaleski:

http://www.victorybeerblog.com/beerblog/coming-to-victory-green-beer-year-round.html

We can't wait for this project! We will be joining Victory, PennEnvironment and Guardians of the Branywine for the "River to Tap" fundraising event at Victory Brewing Company on April 8, 6:30-8pm. Please come visit us and support this great local cause!

More about the event can be found here: http://www.watchourwaters.org/

Coming Soon:

* SunPower's new Quarterly Newsletter - next week

* Official launch of SunPower's Referral Program - next week

PA Incentive Updates

2010-03-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

SunPower would like to update you on several important developments in regard to available incentives for solar installations in PA.

1. PA Sunshine Program

First, the residential tier of the PA Sunshine Program has STEPPED DOWN from Tier 1, $2.25/Watt, to Tier 2, $1.75/Watt. For the next few weeks, SunPower will continue to try to send contracts in to DEP at Tier 1, in hopes that they can squeeze into Tier 1 (as no application is final or reserved until both the online and mailed in portions have been received and evaluated.) However, Tier 2 residential solar systems still show a great ROI and payback period! Contact us to learn how and speak to our policy specialist about the most up-to-date information coming out of Harrisburg.

Second, on the commercial side of the PA Sunshine Program, funds continue to dissapear rapidly. The program has now gone through Tiers 1-3 (10MW each!) and is now in Tier 4, which includes 5 more MegaWatts of small business solar rebates. The new rate schedule is: 0.75/Watt (3-10kW); 0.50/Watt (10-100kW); 0.25/Watt (100-200kW)

2. Solar Rebates for PPL customers!

PPL Electric Utilities has announced a $2/Watt rebate for residential customers to install PV in their service territory. These rebates are however capped at $5000 AND if you are a PPL customer that takes advantage of this rebate you are INELIGIBLE for a Sunshine Program rebate. DEP has posted an official position paper on this "double-dipping" on their website and we encourage you to have a look: http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/in_the_news/10475/pa_sunshine_solar_program/553019

The most exciting thing about the new PPL program is that there is finally funding for non-profit solar in PA!! Governmental and non-profit customers can receive up to $500,000.

============================

Stay tuned for exciting things coming from SunPower this spring - many events and Earth Day celebrations, a new newsletter and referral program and the continued expansion of our facilities. Even through this spectacular growth in 2009, and continuing in 2010, we are still proud to address the triple bottom line in everything we do - WORK LOCAL, ACT GLOBAL.

And of course, GO SOLAR.

SunPower Featured as a "PA Solar Success Story" at Philadelphia Press Conferece

2010-03-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

Kira Costanza, alongside our buddies at Solardelphia and environmental advocates at PennFuture, spoke to reporters today about the growing solar industry in PA. A similiar press conference was held today in Harrisburg, to support the passage of House Bill 80 and strong, effective solar policy.

PennFuture highlighted SunPower Builders as a Pennsylvania "Solar Success Story" :

Pennsylvania solar companies have greatly expanded within the past year, thanks to the PA Sunshine Solar Program and the Commonwealth Financing Authority Solar Grant Program. Before the opening of these programs, SunPower Builders was one of only roughly 20 solar installers in Pennsylvania; today over 300 solar installers are participating in these programs.

“As a Pennsylvania solar company that has been designing and installing solar systems since the early 1970s, this is a very exciting time and a period of massive change,” said Kira Costanza, Director of External Relations for SunPower Builders. “SunPower has grown from an office of 3 with a few installers in the field to a company of 20. Green jobs are real, and we look forward to working with the growing industry to turn Pennsylvania into a solar powerhouse.”

Read the full press release here:

http://www.pennenvironment.org/newsroom/energy/energy-program-news/new-report-solar-power-can-reap-huge-benefits-for-environment-energy-security

The story was also featured on The Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News GreenSpace Blog:
http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/greenliving/

Thank you to Nathan Willcox at PennEnvironment for organizing today's event and to everyone at PennEnvironment who worked on this important report.

Kira Costanza to Speak at Tuesday Press Conference on Solar in Philadelphia

2010-03-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

For Immediate Release: Friday, March 5th, 2010

Contact: Nathan Willcox, PennEnvironment 215-732-5897, nwillcox@pennenvironment.org

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

New Report to Outline Solar Energy Benefits - Local Solar Energy Success Stories & Technologies to be Highlighted at Release Event

What: PennEnvironment will join with solar power installers and labor leaders from the Philadelphia area to hold a press conference to release a new report highlighting the benefits of solar energy. The report, Building a Solar Future, outlines the potential of solar energy to power and heat homes, businesses, farms, neighborhoods and even our cars, enhancing energy security and reducing pollution. The report also identifies the obstacles to wider use of solar energy in Pennsylvania and the United States, and identifies a combination of policies that could boost solar enough to meet 10% of America’s energy needs by 2030. If any reporters would like an advance embargoed copy of the report, please send an email to nwillcox@pennenvironment.org.

When: Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 - 10:30am

Where: Next to the fountain in the center of Washington Square6th and Walnut Streets, Philadelphia

Who:
Nathan Willcox, Energy & Clean Air Advocate, PennEnvironment
Mike Neill, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 98
Kira Costanza, Director of External Relations, SunPower Builders
Jude Webster, President and Owner, Solardelphia

Visuals: Solar panels will be on display at the event.

###

PennEnvironment is an environmental advocacy organization with roughly 15,000 citizen members across Pennsylvania, which works to protect Pennsylvania’s air, water and open spaces. http://www.pennenvironment.org/

Announcing PA SEIA! The Pennsylvania Division of the Mid-Atlantic Solar Energy Industries Association (MSEIA)

2010-03-05T06:23:00.000-08:00

SunPower Builders and Kira Costanza take their participation in PA Solar Policy Advocacy to the next level as founding members of PA SEIA.

Heavily engaged in solar legislation and policy-making in PA, we are excited to work with other PA solar installers and enthusiasts to develop the PA Division of MSEIA. Kira already represents SunPower in many stakeholder groups and associations, including the Governor's Solar Working Group, the Smart Energy Initiative (http://smartenergypa.org/solar-energy.asp) and of course MSEIA (where she was a board member in 2009) and PASEIA.

Kira is also an active participant in outreach directly to legislators and the media (such as Tuesday's Press Conference releasing PennEnvironment's new report outlining the benefits of solar energy in PA!)

READ THE FULL PASEIA ANNOUNCEMENT:

MARCH 2010

Pennsylvania members of the solar industry trade association MSEIA have formalized and are expanding the PA Division of the Association, to respond to the unique needs of the rapidly growing solar industry in PA and expanded PA membership. Presently, at least half of MSEIA members do business in Pennsylvania.

For over ten years, MSEIA has been extremely instrumental in developing the infrastructure for implementing solar energy technologies in Pennsylvania. Now that many hundreds of solar energy systems have been installed in PA, stimulated by the Sunshine Solar Rebate Program, as well as DEP’s Energy Harvest and PEDA Programs, and the Sustainable Development Fund Solar PV Program, it is time to tighten MSEIA’s focus on Pennsylvania.

In a survey sent to PA solar installers, 100% of respondents saw a strong correlation between effective solar policy and the success of their business. 87.5% of respondents felt that they would be more inclined to join a trade association that addressed state-specific solutions.

PA SEIA, a Division of MSEIA, will represent solar installers and integrators, manufacturers and distributors, training and education centers and other players in the PA solar industry. The Division will advocate for strong legislation to support the continued growth of solar businesses, promote both a diverse, as well as a tightly unified industry in Pennsylvania, and serve as a resource for both policy-makers and the public.

As a first step, PA SEIA has formed a steering committee composed of current MSEIA members who are working to develop the Division, and plans to hold elections in the near future. The interim steering committee officers are: Ron Celentano, VP for PA on the MSEIA Executive Committee, Kira Costanza, SunPower Builders, Secretary, TBD Treasurer Liaison, and Maureen Mulligan, Lobbyist and Policy Specialist. Other active participants are: Vincent O’Grady, Solardelphia, Shannon Jefferson, Solardelphia, Mark Connolly, Atlantic Energy Concepts, Sal DePrisco, Russell Solar, Mike Newman, Worley & Obetz, Roan Confer, Aset Solar and Anthony Guerrera, Guerrera Electric.

To learn more about MSEIA, PA SEIA or to become a member please visit http://www.mseia.net/ (new website coming soon!) or email pennsylvania@mseia.net.

Sign-Up for PA Rebates While They’re Hot!

2010-03-01T06:55:00.000-08:00

The PA Sunshine Rebate Program is a success! The PA solar industry is growing at breakneck speed and companies from all over the country have their eyes on the PA market…this kind of growth creates positive momentum, but can also create confusion.

At SunPower Builders, we focus our work not just on the sale, but on our policy research and advocacy work in Harrisburg. Therefore, we wanted to share that while commercial funds in the PA Sunshine Program did move very quickly, the residential PV program has been slow and steady. Contrary to scare tactics being used by many installers in recent weeks, funding for the residential portion of the PA Sunshine Program is NOT running dry.

At least not yet…the Tier 1 $2.25/Watt rebate level should continue through the Spring, but we are contacting you because SunPower Builders is urging our most interested customers to hedge against scare tactics and sign up now to guarantee the highest rebate level.

Please feel free to contact Kira Costanza at kira@sunpowerbuilders.com at any time with questions about PA solar policy, the Sunshine Program or project financing inquiries.

SunPower Builders and SunPower Solar are SouthEastern PA’s most experienced and committed PV installer – working in the solar industry since 1972! We have installed nearly 100 systems and completed over 300 solar and green building projects, all within a 50-100 mile radius of our HQ in Collegeville.

A certified B-Corporation addressing the triple bottom line of People, Planet, Profit, please join SunPower in creating a more sustainable future, one project at a time.

Your Solar Panels in the Snow

2010-02-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

As snow has continued to accumulate in SouthEastern PA, many of our existing customers have contacted us about what to do, if anything. The answer is simple: Nothing!

Structurally, solar systems are adding only a few pounds per square foot of load to the roof, so no need for alarm there, even though this has been quite a heavy snow.

With regard to power production, it is true that generation is, for the most part, halted by snow cover. If you would like to climb around on these historically snow covered roofs to sweep of your modules, feel free, but we would recommend that it is not worth risk of falling! In addition, power production in February in our region is typically only 7% of the annual average, so missing a few days has no significant impact on annual production.

Snow also melts of solar PV modules and solar hot water collectors faster than anything else - these photos were taken at the SunPower warehouse. As you can see, the snow cleared almost immediately off of the hot water collectors, which are used for our radiant floor heating.

SunPower on the Front Page of the Sunday Inquirer Business Section!

2010-02-08T06:51:00.000-08:00

http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20100207_Alternative_energy_splits_Pa__business_community.html

SunPower Builders was once again featured on the front page of this Sunday's Inquirer business section.

Kira Costanza and Bill Helenski, our PV foreman extraordinaire (who also impressed everyone - including the Inquirer reporter and photographer - by carrying the pictured PV module up a ladder onto Victory's roof - we tell you, the man is comfortable with a solar panel!) are pictured in the above photo with Victory Brewery owners, Ron Barchet and Bill Covaleski.

The partnership between Victory and SunPower is fitting, as the 2 companies share a common vision of local, sustainable and responsible business practices, and for the most part enjoy a clientele with similiar philosphies.

The Victory Brewing Company system will be installed this spring by SunPower, with a Tier 2 PA Sunshine Grant of $102,473.50. The grant was supported by letters from local politicians and the project enjoys much local support and excitement.

We will install a kiosk in the Victory Restaurant, to showcase the solar power being produced by the PV system, and sharing with the public and the next generation of both fine beer drinkers and energy consumers the value of alternative energy and responsibility!

Full article here:

http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20100207_Alternative_energy_splits_Pa__business_community.html

And thank you to Diane Mastrull, Inquirer reporter who continues to shine light on the PA solar industry and important environmental issues.

SunPower Net-Zero Energy Building Project Featured in Harrisburg Examiner

2010-02-03T12:32:00.001-08:00

This 2005 project, completed in conjunction with site owner Gretchen Lea, is featured in this article about the NorthEast Sustainable Energy Association's (NESEA) annual NESEA Zero Net Building Award. One of our favorite projects, we are happy to have it showcased here:

http://www.examiner.com/x-36818-Harrisburg-Green-Building-Examiner~y2010m1d27-Netzero-building-projects-in-northeast-vie-for-10000-award-from-NESEA

The Truth About House Bill 80

2010-02-01T16:28:00.000-08:00

To: Local PA Chamber of Commerce Leaders & Membership

From: Perkiomen Valley Chamber Member Kira Costanza, Director of External Relations, SunPower Builders

Pennsylvania needs a resounding YES VOTE ON HOUSE BILL 80.

As a long time Perkiomen Valley Chamber member, I am disappointed to hear that the PA Chamber's continues lobbying our local chamber to oppose pro-business legislation like House Bill 80. In particular, I would like to respond to Jim Willshier’s note of January 11.

HB80 advances our state’s position to become a solar energy leader and powerhouse. The Chamber's position fails to note the lost opportunity costs of NOT passing HB80, particularly in regard to job creation and economic development - both significantly effecting PA’s small business community and thereby the growth and success of my family's solar business. According to a report released TODAY by Black & Veatch, “the growing advanced energy industry is projected to add over $25 billion to the commonwealth's economy.”

HB80 also creates many benefits to consumers not noted by the PA Chamber, including a net decrease in energy costs. Black & Veatch noted that an increased supply of electricity generated by alternative energy sources like wind and solar power that use no fuel, will place downward pressure on overall electricity prices and result in savings for consumers. This study therefore refutes one of the Chamber’s largest oppositions to HB80: an exaggerated projection of rate increases on small businesses. The solar industry’s detailed analysis of ratepayer impact mirrors the Black & Veatch study, putting the initial rate increase on small businesses to be only around 1% and actually declines in the out years of the requirement.

A yes vote on HB80 is a vote for a diverse portfolio of energy sources, ensuring long-term electricity reliability and availability, as well as reducie costs by cutting peak demand. HB80 will also expand support for traditional PA energy industries, with investments in innovative technologies such as carbon sequestration, ensuring that the PA coal industry will remain at the forefront of national and international energy development.

A yes vote on HB80 is also a vote for jobs, jobs, jobs. The solar industry is largely comprised of small, local companies creating sustainable, green jobs throughout the commonwealth. In 2000 there were approximately 25 solar installation companies in PA, today, as a result of the PA Energy Independence Strategy; there are over 300 solar companies in the state employing thousands of Pennsylvanians. Solar jobs are high paying, multi-skilled positions for all 67 Pennsylvania counties and they can't be exported.

While unemployment continues to hover around 10%, PA cannot afford to turn its back on the 125,000 new job-years of construction and ongoing operation jobs between now and 2026 that will be created with the passage of HB80 (a job-year is defined as 2080 hours of employment over a single year.

Federal climate change legislation is now stalled in Washington. PA must take a lead and a proactive, innovative approach to alternative energy, so as not to fall behind surrounding states (with much more aggressive RPS schedules than PA!) in industry development, technology and supply.

Please urge your members and legislators to support responsible energy choices, to create jobs and benefit consumers, and serve as a hedge against higher electricity prices. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions – I can be reached via email at kira@sunpowerbuilders.com or at 610.489.1105.

The Black & Veatch study is available on the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies Web site at: www.cfalleghenies.org, or on the Black & Veatch Web site (select "News & Publications" then "Reports & Studies") at www.bv.com.

SunPower Builders is Officially Certified as a B-Corporation!

2010-01-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

We are incredibly proud to announce that SunPower Builders has been officially inducted into the community of B-Corporations - a new type of corporation which uses the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.

Through our environmentally concious and sustainable business here in PA to our efforts to fight poverty and climate change in Togo, West Africa, SunPower Builders truly exemplifies a B-Corporation by addressing the triple bottom line in everything we do - People, Planet, Profit.

Excuse us for a small digression: This insiring mantra of "People Planet Profit" is also promoted by the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia - who were the ones who introduced us to the B-Corporation Survey for the first time. This survey is now required for all SBN members, a great step in spreading the word about responsible business in our area. Thank you SBN! http://www.sbnphiladelphia.org/

B-Corporation status requires examination and revision and renewal of our organization documents and bylaws. We look forward to putting our practices into words and continuing to make the world a better place.

Learn more here about the B-Corp movement and how you too can practice triple-bottom line business! http://www.bcorporation.net/

SunPower Builders at Greater Philadelphia Historic Home Show THIS WEEKEND

2010-01-26T09:50:00.001-08:00

Want to learn more about SunPower's mission to promote the common thread between history and energy?

Over 35 years - from historic restorations and period renovations to energy efficient renovations, additions and solar homes -SunPower Builders has created a name and reputation for of quality, integrity and craftsmanship in SouthEastern PA.

Come visit us at Booth #22 at the Valley Forge Convention Center this Friday (6-9PM), Saturday (10AM-5PM) and Sunday (11AM-4PM).

For more information on the event, please visit: http://www.goodrichpromotions.com/historic_home/index.html

PA Sunshine Program Update - January 2010

2010-01-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Progress and Updates from DEP – January 2010

• Small Business Program: Now in Tier 3

Megawatts in Step: 10

Rebate Levels: $1.25/Watt for 3-10kW; $1.00/Watt for 10-100kW; $0.75/Watt for 100-200kW

DEP has received enough applications to fill Tier 3 as well, but have not officially reserved these funds. Many projects were likely rushed in due to the rapidly declining rebates and are likely not to qualify or go through. If you are a small business – do not delay!

• Residential Program: Still Accepting Applications for Tier 1 Funding, Nearly in Tier 2

There are 3.7MW left in Residential PV Tier 1, which has been moving and slower and steadier pace than the small business program. However, the program should be moving into Tier 2 in early spring.

Megawatts in Step: 10

Rebate Level: $2.25/Watt

• Solar Thermal Program: Still Accepting Application for Tier 1 Funding

Number of Systems in Step: 1500

Rebate Level: 25%

================================

METRICS ARE UPDATED WEEKLY ON DEP’S SUNSHINE PROGRAM WEBSITE:

http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/in_the_news/10475/pa_sunshine_solar_program/553019

For questions on the Sunshine Program, incentives, or other policy issues, please contact Kira Costanza at kira@sunpowerbuilders.com.

SunPower Solar Stands With Haiti

2010-01-15T07:53:00.000-08:00

We urge you to join us in supporting Partners in Health (PIH), who have been working on the ground in Haiti for over 20 years. They urgently need your support to help those affected by the earthquake.

Partners in Health have also partnered in recent years with the Solar Electric Light Fund, who is currently diverting 13 kW of solar panels to a PIH facility to provide electricity for critical lighting and emergency medical treatment.

Now is the time for deep and thoughtful generosity in the name of humanity.

May the world's thoughts, hearts and prayers remain with the population of Haiti.

SunPower Solar Projects Map - Now Live!

2010-01-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

38 years later, SunPower has installed nearly 100 systems in SouthEastern PA!

Founded by Jon Costanza in 1972, we are proud to be the most experienced installer in the area, practicing what we preach every day from our 100% solar-powered HQ in Collegeville.

Click here to see an interactive map of our projects: http://sunpowerbuilders.com/map.html

Happy New Year and here's to a lot of solar in 2010!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-17T06:17:00.000-08:00

The entire team at SunPower wishes you all a happy happy holiday and a peaceful new year.

May 2010 bring the continued growth of the solar industry in PA, enthusiasm for solar amongst politicians and consumers, and a deepening love and respect for the only planet we have.

We look forward to a great year.

Peace and Sunshine,

Kira, Jon, Nancy, Holly, Carrie, David, Bill, Colby, Joe, Eric, Marc, Levi, Zak, Garian, Mike and Sean - and of course, our solar kitties and pups, who always manange to help us keep things in perspective.

Where do we begin...

2009-12-01T14:30:00.000-08:00

...so much is going on at SunPower!

1. THIS FRIDAY is our first non-profit benefit event, to raise funds for SunPower Afrique!

Event info. and registration are available here: http://www.sunpowerafrique.org/invite.html

2. Kira Costanza was quoted in this weekend's Inquirer, commenting on a new solar panel manufacturing facility opening in Philadelphia.

The full story is here: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/20091128_Solar-panel_factory_coming_to_Navy_Yard.html

At SunPower Builders, one of our M.O.’s is and has always been to provide locally manufactured solar products – which is why we have done business with the GE solar plant in Newark, DE for over 15 years. It is sometimes ironic that “green energy” products like solar panels are often shipped halfway across the world and have a massive carbon footprint…that’s why it’s important to us to work with local suppliers – we practice what we preach and others are starting to follow.

3. SunPower's Solar HQ will be feaured on this Saturday's Green Home Tour run by the Delaware Valley Green Building Council (DVGBC). All are welcome to 80 Pechins Mill Road, Collegeville, PA between 12:30 and 2PM. Rumor has it Joe Sestak will be in attendance!

Just a sampling...much more to come as we continue to grow in 2010 and take our efforts to West Africa.

DEP Press Release: PA Sunshine Program Boom!

2009-11-17T11:36:00.000-08:00

The PA solar industry continues to grow :)

http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/news/cwp/view.asp?a=1278&q=549454

PA Sunshine Program Rebate Step-Downs

2009-11-17T06:32:00.000-08:00

Here at SunPower we pride ourselves on being well-informed and tuned in to PA policy. It is important to provide accurate and timely information on incentives to our customers.

First, the Small Business PV program Tier 1 rebate level has closed - future projects will receive rebates in the Tier 2 rebate level.

Second, please note the following message we received from DEP, the state agency that runs the PA Sunshine Program:

The residential PV program is still accepting applications for Tier 1 incentives. Tier 1 will end as soon this program reaches 10 MW of project applications and/or reservations. There will be no extensions to this limit. As of November 13, the program has received applications for 4.66 MW of residential PV projects. The Department will accept 5.34 MW of additional applications before the residential PV program steps down.

An announcement like this went out for the small business program and it closed the next day, which is why we were concerned and wanted to get this out to consumers and potential clients considering an installation. If you’re planning to do a project please contact us ASAP and we will file your rebate to secure the high incentive level!

Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you soon - GO SOLAR.

610.489.1105

SunPower Solar Open House Press

2009-11-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

Our annual Open House, part of the National Solar Tour, was a great success.

Please see a write-up about the event from the PV Chamber here: http://www.pvchamber.net/pdf/Oct-2009.nl.pdf

Thanks to everyone who came out and here's to another great year of solar.

Federal Incentives

2009-10-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

There's been so much talk around here lately about the PA Sunshine Program that we thought we should remind everyone about the Federal Government's support for solar.

Here are our top tips for taking advantage of Federal Incentives:

1. Don't believe your CPA when he/she tells you that the Federal ITC is capped at $2K...

The Federal Tax Credit of 30% for Residential Solar PV installations was UNCAPPED at the end of 2008. It is not at all rare for the IRS not to put out new forms until partway through the year. Therefore, the 2008 form that shows a $2000 cap on the residential ITC for solar projects (Form 5695) is still floating around...HOWEVER, the truth is that the Federal ITC is 30% and uncapped, effective 2009, and extended thru end of 2016. You can find this notation in the "What's New for 2009" section in the notes on the 2008 Form 5695.

Your CPA still doesn't believe you? Call SunPower, we are here to help.

2. Commercial Project? Go for the ITC Cash Grant!

The Stimulus Bill created an additional incentive for commercial projects that are put in service in 2009 - 2010: you can take the Federal ITC as a Cash Grant!

Treasury will administer the solar grant program and is required to pay out each solar grant within 60 days of the receipt of each application [Section 1603]. The solar grant is not subject to federal taxes [Section 1104].

This is a very informative link about the program: http://www.sunwize.com/commercial/business-solar-grant.php

What's next? Let's hear it for some MEANINGFUL climate change legislation!

Ontario, Canada has just implemented a feed-in tariff and we can't get PA House Bill 80 out of committee...stay tuned for legislative alerts to call your reps!

SunPower's Annual 2-Day Open House! Oct. 2nd & 3rd

2009-09-23T12:56:00.001-07:00

It's that time again! You are invited to our annual 2-day open house in Collegeville.

Come see our expanded facilities - Net-Zero Energy and 100% solar powered! Celebrate this exciting year for solar with SunPower staff and other solar enthusiasts.

When: Friday October 2, 12pm -2pm & Saturday October 3, 10am-4pm

Where: SunPower Solar HQ - 80 Pechins Mill Road - Collegeville, PA 19426

What: SunPower Solar's 2-day Annual Open House, part of the NESEA Green Buildings Open House and ASES National Solar Tour. Enjoy networking, refreshments and presentations about PA rebates and solar financing, solar electricity and solar hot water and SunPower Afrique (www.sunpowerafrique.org)

Please call 610.489.1105 or email kira@sunpowerbuilders.com for more information.

Read the full Press Release:

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kira Costanza, 610-489-1105, kira@sunpowerbuilders.com

PUBLIC INVITED TO SUNPOWER SOLAR’S OPEN HOUSE

Leading PA Solar Installer to open doors October 2 and 3

Collegeville, PA – September 16, 2009 – Always wanted to learn about solar and energy efficiency? SunPower Solar (a division of SunPower Builders) is a local company that has been installing solar energy systems since the 1970s, and invites the community to celebrate solar at their annual “Off-the-Grid Gala” from 12 pm – 2 pm on Friday, October 2 and during the National Solar Tour & Green Buildings Open House from 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday, October 3. Both events take place at SunPower Solar office at 80 Pechins Mill Road, Collegeville, PA.

Now in their 4th decade of solar installations and energy efficient design and construction, SunPower Solar has compiled a diverse portfolio of projects in Southeastern PA, bound by the common threads of fine design, high quality craftsmanship and energy efficiency. Jon Costanza, President of SunPower Solar, states, “With state rebates, Federal Tax Credits and other incentives, solar is now more affordable than ever.” More information about how you can afford to go solar can be found at www.sunpowerbuilders.com.

Friday’s “Off-the-Grid Gala” is an opportunity to see a large solar energy system at work, completely powering the SunPower Solar office! Enjoy networking, meet the staff, and learn about everything solar, from technology to financing. Saturday’s event, part of the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s (www.nesea.org) Green Buildings Open House and American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour. SunPower Builders’ office, also the site of Founder and President Jon Costanza’s super energy efficient 1703 stone farmhouse, will be featured on the Tour for the 12th consecutive year. Costanza’s property is not only host to his home’s and business’s active photovoltaic (solar electricity generation) and solar hot water heating systems, but also exemplifies passive solar techniques, daylighting, superinsulation (soy-based), a geothermal heat pump and is built out of 80% salvaged and recycled materials.

At both events, information will also be available about SunPower Afrique, SunPower Solar’s nonprofit partner that is working to install solar energy systems through microfinance in Togo, West Africa. More on SunPower Afrique can be found at www.sunpowerafrique.org. Light refreshments will be served and casual dress is highly recommended.

Visit SunPower Solar at the PA Renewable Energy Fest - Kira Costanza also to speak about SunPower Afrique - Friday 9AM

2009-09-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone -

Just a quick note to let you all know that SunPower Solar will be participating in the Pennsylvania Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Festival this weekend in Kempton, PA. Please come visit us at BOOTH 115!

In addition, Kira will be giving a presentation about SunPower Afrique's non-profit solar projects in Togo, West Africa at 9AM ON FRIDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER. For more information about SunPower Afrique or to support these projects, please visit http://www.sunpowerafrique.org/

Hope to see you there!

The SunPower Team

PA Sunshine Program Update and Upcoming Events!

2009-07-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

The PA Sunshine Program is humming along quite smoothly. SunPower has received a slew of rebate reservations and is actively installing PV and SWH systems throughout SouthEastern PA!

Contact us to get started on going solar! (info@sunpowerbuilders.com)

The rebate level will remain at $2.25/Watt until the first "step" of installed capacity is reached in the state. Here is an update on those numbers:

In other news...

SunPower will be joining MSEIA and the SEF at the Sustainable Energy Conference at Lafayette College in Easton, PA on the weekend of July 31st. The event is open to the public and information is available here: http://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?eventid=710259

Kira Costanza will be traveling to Togo, W. Africa in August to work on SunPower Afrique project development. Please learn more and support SunPower's nonprofit work here: http://www.sunpowerafrique.org/ (every little bit helps!)

UPCOMING EVENTS: This fall will bring SunPower's annual hosting of the NESEA Solar Homes Tour and Open House, scheduled for the weekend of October as well as several other events including:

- September 12: Trappe Community Day
- September, TBC: Main Line Today Magazine's Home & Garden Show
- September 18-20: PA Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Festival where Kira will be giving a talk about SunPower Afrique! (http://www.paenergyfest.com/)
- September 26: Willow Creek's "Beyond Cans and Bottles Recycling Day" - SunPower has designed a large-scale solar PV system for this organic farm in Collegeville. (http://www.willowcreekorchards.com/)
- October 10: Peace Valley Nature Center's Solar Tour - SunPower designed and built a passive solar atrium at this Nature Center in Doylestown. (http://www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org/)

Please contact kira@sunpowerbuilders.com for information on any of these events and please do come out and join us!

Go Solar - Allez Solaire

Action Needed on PA House Bill 80!

2009-06-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Your help is needed ASAP to ensure the successful passage of House Bill 80, which has the potential to increase the solar share, continue our industry’s spectacular growth in PA and grow solar companies like SunPower!

Now is the time to make THREE calls to your reps! Please take 5 minutes to do so this afternoon or tomorrow morning, it will make a huge difference!

1. Please call your own representative and ask them, very simply, to support HB80 to grow the PA solar industry and create jobs (a personal anecdote or sentence about your company is helpful.)

Find your rep. here: http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/find.cfm)

2 & 3. Please call Rep. Keith McCall at 717-783-1375 (Democratic leadership) and Rep. Sam Smith (Republican leadership) at 717-787-3845.

The message is: Please support solar in HB 80 with amendment 1997, which is the 3 percent solar share starting in 2011-2012.

Background: HB80 will increase the amount of solar power by a factor of six, and lead to the development of new renewable energy generation. This legislation would extend the timeline for the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards (AEPS) act to 2026 and strengthen Pennsylvania's competitive position by sending a strong, long-term market signal for new investment.

Thank you for your help – please call Kira Costanza at 610.489.1105 if you have any questions!

SunPower is Hiring!

2009-06-16T11:49:00.000-07:00

Needed: Lead Carpenter to work with a growing solar and green contractor.

You have a sharp mind and pencil. You are nice, motivated, diligent, reliable and ethical. You can read and interpret plans and walk a roof like a mountain goat.

Must have reliable transportation, valid DL, and tools.

Great company, pay and benefits; solar training and incentives for a committed craftsperson.

Please send cover letter and resume to kira@sunpowerbuilders.com.

Go Solar! Save the Polar Bears!

2009-06-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

A typical 10kW system is equivalent to:

Planting more than one acre of trees per year.

Driving a car 10,000 miles less per year.

Burning 50 less barrels of oil per year.

Emitting 5 less tons of Carbon Dioxide per year.

Emitting 40 less tons of Sulfur Dioxide per year.

Join SunPower & the PA Solar Community at PV AMERICA!

2009-05-28T17:24:00.001-07:00

On June 8-10, 2009 PV America conference takes Philly by storm! The conference, being held at the Convention Center in Philadelphia, comes at an exciting time for the PV (Photovoltaics - used to generate solar electricity) industry,whose momentum appears unstoppable in 2009. It is also exciting to have the nations first conference dedicated solely to PV right in our backyard!

As a member of the Executive Comittee for the Mid-Atlantic Solar Energy Industries Association (MSEIA), a co-sponor of the conference, Kira Costanza has worked for months with fellow MSEIA members to ensure the conference's success.

If you have not already signed up for PV America, please do! (especially if you are an MSEIA member! You get a great discount!) If you are a solar business, the conference is an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about new incentives and financing opportunities. If you are not a business, just an individual interested in solar, the conference is open to the public as well on the 9th, from 12pm-8pm.

AND if you can't make it to the conference, MSEIA is also organizing SOLAR TOURS in the greater Philly area - You can register and find out more information here: http://www.mseia.net/SolarTours.html or contact kira@sunpowerbuilders.com.

Hope to see you there! Solar Geeks Unite.

PA Sunshine Program NOW OPEN!

2009-05-18T04:10:00.000-07:00

MEDIA ADVISORY: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kira Costanza, 610-489-1105, kira@sunpowerbuilders.com

SOLAR TAKES OFF IN PA with LAUNCH OF REBATE PROGRAM

Collegeville, PA – May 18, 2009 – On Monday, the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) begins accepting rebate applications for residential and small business solar energy installations. The rebate program, called the PA Sunshine Program, was approved by the legislature last July under Gov. Rendell’s $650 million Alternative Energy Funding Act, and allots $100 million for the Commonwealth’s new solar initiative.

In the wake of the new program, new solar companies are cropping up throughout our region. PA has an aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standard, with 225 mW of required solar installed by the year 2015, and a developing SREC market. Thousands of kilowatts of PV are expected to be installed in the first year of the program, SunPower Solar alone has nearly 30 contracts in queue to receive funding. Once a 3 person operation, SunPower’s staff of 20 now looks forward to hiring more installers and office staff, as well as increasing its office facilities to accommodate the business’s growth in 2009.

The beginning of the program may present a bumpy ride, as thousands of applications are filed in the first few days and the state grapples with new procedures and a lack of personnel to administer the program. In addition, the solar Thermal (solar water heating) portion of the program will be opening one week late, as a result of problems with the online application. However, PA is the first state in the US to open up a state-wide solar thermal program and its energy policy is quite progressive, ensuring a bright future for solar in PA. SunPower Solar has worked with legislators, the Mid-Atlantic Solar Energy Industries Association (MSEIA), and others throughout this program’s development. As Ron Celentano, VP for MSEIA, states, “MSEIA worked very hard to help shape the Sunshine program design. Although not all of our recommendations were included, we are very happy to see this program finally launch.”

In addition to the PA Sunshine Program, several other initiatives are opening in our state to fund solar energy projects. The Commonwealth Financing Authority has also opened its Solar Energy Program, for larger solar projects as well as R&D and manufacturing. Details on this program can be found at http://www.newpa.com/. The DEP is also accepting applications for Pennsylvania Economic Development Authority (PEDA) grants, which can be used for large-scale, innovative solar projects, and hopes to open a new program for nonprofits and municipalities called PA Conservation Works! in mid-June. Information on these, as well as the PA Sunshine Program can be found at www.depweb.state.pa.us/energindependent.

About SunPower Solar, Est. 1972 – SunPower is now in our 4th decade of solar installations and energy efficient design and construction. SunPower has compiled a diverse portfolio of projects, bound by the common threads of fine design, high quality craftsmanship and energy efficiency. More information on SunPower’s projects, experience and how to get started with solar energy can be found at http://www.sunpowerbuilders.com/

PA Solar Rebates

2009-05-08T11:38:00.001-07:00

It's official! The PA Sunshine Program will open on May 18th!

SunPower has confirmed that the program will be offering $2.25/Watt installed reimbursement grants for residential PV projects up to 10kW (close to our 30% projection.) For projects greater than 10kW, the rebate amount will step down $.25 for each level (11-100kW @ $2.00/Watt; 100-200kW @$1.75) For residential solar thermal projects (solar water heating) there is also a $2,000 rebate available.

This rebate, when combined with the 30% uncapped Federal ITC, savings on your electric bill and SREC sales, makes the payback on your home or small biz solar system 6-7 YEARS!

The public guidelines for the program as well as the list of participating contractors will be available on the 16th of May. SunPower has already received its certification as a Participating Contractor for the Sunshine Program from DEP (image below.)

Solar has never been more affordable in PA - Contact us to get started and schedule a site survey!

info@sunpowerbuilders.com or610.489.1105

Jon Costanza Profiled in Grid Philly 2009 Issue!

2009-05-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

These days, when Jon Costanza talks to groups about the benefits of solar power, he starts off with his ponytail tucked up out of sight. His audiences, consisting of many people dressed in business suites, often look far more conservative than those he addressed decades ago. Back then, audiences looked a lot more like him, Costanza likes to point out as he lets his ponytail down.

Read the full article by pasting this link into your browser: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/redflag/gridphilly_200905/#/10
(Page 10)

Closer and Closer...Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-27T07:47:00.000-07:00

Information is beginning to become available on the PA DEP website about the PA Sunshine Program. Applications for qualified installers have been online for several weeks and the DEP has begun publishing information about the program and about solar for consumers interested in solar in PA. Please visit this website for information:

http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/energindependent/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=545926

We hope that you had a great Earth Day! Since we are no longer the only ones hugging trees, we were happy to have participated in the following events and "Green Fests" throughout our area:

• Jenkintown GreenFest
• Lower Providence Earth Day Celebration
• Rep. William Adolf's Green Energy Expo
• Rep. Mike Vereb and John Rafferty's Alternative Energy and Environmental Awareness Expo
• Wyeth's Earth Day Celebration and Green Expo
• ECA's 25th Anniversary & 2009 Energy Awards (congratulations to our hero Maureen Mulligan!)

Additionally, on April 21st, Jon Costanza was a panelist at Penn State Great Valley's Green Energy Summit , where he addressed a crowd of hundreds of homeowners and local politicians about the benefits of the solar energy boom in our state. Kira Costanza also spoke on a Green Jobs panel at Penn State Brandywine last week, to parents and high school students looking to get into green and STEM careers.

Coming up:
• Kira speaks at the Bryn Mawr Rotary Club about SunPower Afrique (May 11th, 2009; www.sunpowerafrique.org)
• PennFuture's 2009 Clean Energy Conference (June 3-4, 2009)
• PV America (co-sponsored by MSEIA, June 8-10, 2009)

Stay tuned for updates on the opening of the PA Sunshine Program and call us with any questions - 610.489.1105

CFA Vote Passes in Harrisburg!

2009-04-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

The solar industry has surpassed another hurdle, and the PA rebate program is weeks away!

Today in Harrisburg, the Commonwealth Financing Authority voted unanimously to raise the neccesary bonds to fund the PA Sunshine Program.

With standing room only, a crowd of nearly 30 PA and NJ solar installers, integrators, financiers and other stakeholders, representing 18 companies, attended the CFA meeting. SunPower Builders rep. Kira Costanza (who also serves as Secretary for the Mid-Atlantic Solar Energy Industries Association, or MSEIA) was there, following up on last weekend's Inquirer article and getting ready for the solar boom.

Thank you to Maureen Mulligan, Ron Celentano, fellow MSEIA members and everyone else who helped make this happen!

Read the Inquirer article here: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/20090414_Pa__solar-rebate_funding_approved.html

Read the full MSEIA press release (coming soon) at http://www.mseia.net/

SunPower in the Inquirer!

2009-04-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

Posted on Sun, Apr. 5, 2009 on philly.com

No funds yet for Pa. solar plan

Lawmakers allotted $100M in July for the program. It's been stalled in Harrisburg.

By Diane Mastrull
Inquirer Staff Writer

Way before "going green" became the crusade it is today, Collegeville contractor Jon Costanza built one of the first solar-powered homes on the East Coast.

That was in Haverford in 1972.

He has waited since then for the industry to catch fire and believed, in July, that the Pennsylvania legislature had at least struck the match.

It had approved Gov. Rendell's $650 million Alternative Energy Funding Act, which allotted $100 million for a new solar initiative. The Pennsylvania Sunshine Program would provide rebates of upward of 35 percent to homeowners and small businesses to offset the cost of buying solar systems, much as New Jersey does.

With Sunshine's birth, "we immediately started hiring," Costanza, president of Sunpower Builders, said last week.

One big problem: Funding for the program still has not materialized. That has delayed the installation of possibly thousands of residential solar systems and the hiring of countless people to do that work, just as Pennsylvania tries to recast itself as a leader in green technology - both as a consumer and innovator.

"If the incentive money doesn't start flowing, we're going to have to start laying off instead of hiring," said Costanza, whose Sunpower Builders now has 12 employees.

While lauding Rendell for the Sunshine Program, Costanza's daughter Kira, who works in the family business, said: "Until we see those dollars going into the rebate program . . . it's just words."

She said that about 40 contracts between Sunpower and potential customers sit in a drawer while the Sunshine funds remain stalled in Harrisburg.

Read the full article here: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/homepage/20090405_No_funds_yet_for_Pa__solar_plan.html

(NOTE: If this article is no longer on the Inquirer's website, please contact kira@sunpowerbuilders.com for an electronic copy, thanks!)

Bring on the Sun! (ASAP...)

2009-03-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

The Sunshine Rebate Program is still on hold partly because Commonwealth Finance Authority (CFA) has not yet voted on floating bonds to fund the Program.

CFA’s next meeting is to be held on April 13, 2009, and the guidelines are on the agenda again. This will be the third time this issue is on the agenda. If you want the PA Sunshine Program to start soon, attend the CFA meeting on April 13. Wear something to distinguish yourself as a solar business or advocate. There will a very limited opportunity to speak but they will at least know we are there and need them to vote to open the program now. BE THERE!!!

CFA meets at Dixon University Center
Richards Recital Hall
2986 N. Second St.
Harrisburg, PA

April 13, 2009 : 10AM

Please let us know via email (kira@sunpowerbuilders.com) whether,

You will attend this meeting

And/Or

If you are a solar installer – please tell us how many projects you have lined up that have been stalled because of this delay

Or

If you are personally waiting to have a solar system installed at your house or facility.

J - O - B - S

2009-03-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

The Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation (SEREF) and Google.org today unveiled an interactive “solar jobs map” that visually tells the story of how effective federal energy policy will drive a rapid increase in the use of solar energy and create thousands of new green-collar jobs.

Please check out this great interactive map here: http://seref.us/solarjobsmap.html. (Google Earth software is needed to view and manipulate the map.)

SunPower Solar Workforce -
Growth and Development

The Economics of Solar

2009-01-27T11:16:00.000-08:00

Jan. 2009 - We are no longer a handful of experienced installers and environmental idealists...new installers, financiers, engineers, students, consultants, manufacturers, salesmen and politicians jump onto the "Green Bandwagon" every day. The overwhelming response and industry growth has made one thing very clear: the attractiveness of solar is now in the numbers.

Here at SunPower, where we have been designing and installing solar energy systems since 1972, we couldn't be happier!

Above: SunPower's solar office is powered by the PV poles pictured here!

A solar system is a long-term investment in renewable energy at a kiloWatt rate that will never increase. When considering utility rate inflation and other rising energy costs, the payback period on your system can be significantly reduced. Not only will solar save you money, it will reduce your impact on the environment by producing clean, green energy!

SunPower Builders understands the considerable investment that a solar system represents. We are available to provide information, submit applications and connect you to the necessary resources to finance your installation.

While we are not CPAs, lawyers, wordsmiths or financial advisors, we have detailed several of the financial incentives for going solar below. They are intended as informational guidelines from the solar industry and do not replace an analysis by your financial or tax professional - each situation is unique!

Above: A SunPower Solar Barn in Newtown, PA

1. Federal Tax Credits

The Federal Government’s Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit and Business Energy Tax Credit offer up to a 30% tax credit for solar installations. For businesses and residences the tax credit is 30% of installation cost and is uncapped.

2. Pennsylvania Sunshine Rebate Program

In July, Pennsylvania passed the Alternative Energy Investment Act, a law that will provide $100 million for solar photovoltaic systems and solar water heating systems for homes and small businesses. Like many other states, this $100 million will be distributed through a rebate program on a $$/Watt installed basis. While the dollar amount has not yet been specified, legislators and industry professionals estimate the rebate at approximately 30% of installation cost. This program will be managed by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which is now working to design the new program and place applications online.

Kira Costanza of SunPower participates regularly in the state's Solar Working Group meetings and is in regular contact with legislators and industry professionals to assure the most up-to-date information for our clients.

Above: Part of a 19.2kW PV array in Bucks County, PA.

3. Net Metering – For PV Installations

SunPower will work with your utility company to set up a net-metering program. Net metering is when the solar power produced by your system exceeds what your home is using, and the excess electric power flows into the utility power grid. At the end of each month, the utility subtracts the solar power produced from the total power used.

4. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

An SREC market is emerging in Pennsylvania. The state is now requires electricity suppliers to provide a percentage of their electricity sales from solar generation through Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS.) This means they have to construct large solar arrays to provide sustainable electricity or (more likely) they will purchase this power from other suppliers. If you own solar photovoltaics, you produce SRECs, which can be sold on the open market like any commodity. SunPower can help you to sell and/or trade your SRECs, generating more savings with solar!

In addition, we are all looking to President Obama for the future of the Solar REC market...it is possible that he will raise the National RPS, providing more incentive opportunities and a huge boost for the solar industry.

5. Financing Programs

SunPower Builders is an approved contractor for PA's special financing programs for solar installations and other energy-efficient home improvements. Keystone HELP, Solar Lending Now, the Sustainable Energy Fund and others offer varying loan amounts and terms. Please contact us for more information about these programs.

Above: A roof-mounted installation on a S.E. PA residence.

6. Consider This: Utility Rate Inflation and Deregulation

Energy costs are increasing. Due to the "uncapping" of electricity rates by PA in 2010-2011, for the first time electricity consumers will pay real market costs for generating electricity- an increase of at least 30% of generated cost. The costs to fuel our vehicles and heat our homes, schools and businesses are projected to increase as well. "Business as usual" is an increasingly expensive option and investments in solar are even more attractive.

Deregulations has already started in Western PA. According to the Susquehanna Economic Development Association (SEDA), Allegheny Power customers' bills could rise by 63 percent when its rate caps expire late in 2010!

Please be in touch with us to discuss the economics of solar at your home or business.

Happy Holidays from SunPower

2008-12-19T13:28:00.000-08:00

SunPower in the News

2008-10-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Currents Fall 2008: Businesses consider solar power

More than four years ago, Tim Kauffman became fed up with the electricity and gas bills at the physical-therapy company he co-owns in Lancaster County.

Shortly thereafter, 30 solar panels were installed on the roof of Kauffman-Gamber Physical Therapy's main office, near the border of Manheim Township and Lancaster.

The solar-power system provides the office with electricity and hot water, Kauffman said. The hot-water needs at the office include the therapy pool, showers and laundry.

The system saves the company about 90 percent of what it normally paid each year to heat its water, Kauffman said. And it saves the company about 50 percent of what it usually paid annually for electricity, he said.

"We're definitely saving, as far as the amount of energy that we're consuming from the utilities," he said. "For the past two and a half months, I've had the gas line literally shut off and the plug undone, so everything's come from the sun."

Kauffman-Gamber, a private physical-therapy practice, worked with Montgomery County-based SunPower Builders to design and install the system. Kauffman would not disclose the cost of the system but said based on the price of electricity in 2004, the firm expects the system to pay for itself within 15 to 18 years.

On the hot-water end, the system is expected to pay for itself within three to five years, he said.

"It is a big upfront cost, and you have to have the vision to look beyond just the next paycheck," Kauffman said.

SunPower has designed and constructed energy-efficient systems for residential and commercial buildings for more than 30 years, said Kira Costanza, spokeswoman for SunPower.

A system typically can pay for itself within seven to 15 years, depending on the size and cost of the system, she said. Increasing oil prices, the anticipated removal of Pennsylvania utility- rate caps and other factors will significantly reduce the payback period, she said.

The federal government offers a 30 percent tax credit for businesses that install solar systems, Costanza said. This summer, the state Legislature also passed an energy bill that will provide rebates of up to 35 percent for solar installations, she said. The program has yet to be administered.

"The only hesitation is cost, but this is starting to change. People want solar. We get cold calls all day long from businesses hoping to reduce their environment impact and utility costs," she said. "For businesses, more than for home-owners at this time, it is becoming a reality."

For the complete article, click this link:

http://www.centralpennbusiness.com/article.asp?aID=27253723.8692743.892242.1984936.1155599.768&aID2=68625

Celebrate Solar with SunPower Builders!

2008-09-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to ENLARGE THEM.

http://www.sunpowerbuilders.com/

610.489.2381

Jon Costanza wins Green Power Pioneer Award from PennFuture

2008-09-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

By Kira Costanza

On Tuesday, September 16, 2008 Jon Costanza was honored, with other Pennsylvania 'Green Power Heros,' at a PennFuture luncheon in Philadelphia. In front of a crowd of PA renewable energy enthusiasts and activists, Jon was recognized for his 33+ years of experience and dedication to the solar industry in Pennsylvania.

He was awarded the "Green Power Pioneer" award for his "continued efforts to grow the solar energy industry in Pennsylvania and participation in the Great Green Jobs Campaign."

Jon's award was well deserved and it was wonderful to see him recognized for his commitment and hard work.

Other winners included the Phillies, the Pittsburg Children's Museum and several organic farms for their promotion and use of renewable energy. Several PA power companies that sell large amounts of wind and solar power were also awarded. Optimism and anticipation defined the mood of the luncheon, as we celebrated the growth of solar and wind and other environmental achievements in our state.

All of us at SunPower are thrilled to see the rise in use and increasing mainstream conciousness of solar energy in Pennsylvania. It's time to go solar!

SunPower at GreenFest Philly

2008-09-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

Come visit SunPower's booth at GreenFest Philly this Sunday, September 7th, pm from 11am - 6pm.

We will be showcasing our work and spreading the word about solar!

Please stop by this great event this weekend, on South Street in Philadelphia (at 2nd Street).

Jon Costanza will be giving a 20 minute presentation on solar water heating at 2pm, at the SunPower booth.

More information about Greenfest can be found here: http://www.greenfestphilly.org/

Great News on PA Legislation!

2008-08-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

On July 9, 2008, Governor Rendell signed into law the Alternative Energy Investment Act which, among other things, will provide $100 million in grants for solar photovoltaic systems and solar water heating systems for homes and small businesses. The legislation also provides $80 million of support for larger solar installations and solar companies. The residential and small business program will be managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, which is now working to design the new program. The large solar installation and solar business program will be administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which is also working on the program design.

The PA DEP has created a webpage for interested people to enter their email addresses for receiving email updates about the status of these new programs.

Please visit http://www.ahs2.dep.state.pa.us/ aeifsignup/ to sign up for these program updates.

SunPower Builders + Keystone HELP = Solar For You!

2008-08-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

SunPower Builders is now an approved contractor for PA's special financing plan for solar installations and other energy-efficient home improvements!

Please contact us or visit http://www.keystonehelp.com/ for more information.

Welcome to SunPower Builders' Blog!

2008-08-12T07:53:00.001-07:00

Please visit http://www.sunpowerbuilders.com/ for more information on our work.

We are proud to let it speak for itself.

MORE INFO. COMING SOON!