Discounted pricing on solar panels, EV chargers, battery storage through June 30
CONTACT:
Katie VanLangen, LEAP Solarize Program Manager
[email protected]; 201-506-7377
Bri West, PEC Director of Outreach and Communications
[email protected]; 540-347-2334 x7020
Central Virginia – (May 24, 2021) – The Solarize Piedmont program is back through June 30 and available to homeowners and business owners in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties, and the City of Charlottesville. Solarize Piedmont makes adding solar power, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging stations to homes and businesses easier and more affordable than ever, by leveraging the collective buying power of many to provide a one-stop shop for solar education, vetted installers, and discounted pricing.
Solarize Piedmont is a grassroots, community-based outreach initiative managed by the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) and presented in partnership with The Piedmont Environmental Council and participating municipalities. Through a competitive bidding process, LEAP has named this year’s selected campaign installers Virtue Solar and Altenergy. In addition, the 2021 federal tax credit rate for solar installation this year is 26%, but will be phased out completely by 2024. LEAP will connect participants with information on the federal tax credit and local incentives, such as real estate tax credits.
Through June 30, home and business owners interested in exploring their solar options can learn more and sign up at pecva.org/solarize for a complimentary solar satellite assessment and home energy assessment. The 90-minute home energy assessment offers a clear road map for improving the overall energy efficiency of one’s home, as well as free energy-saving products. LEAP provides ongoing customer support and education throughout the solar installation process to make the experience as streamlined as possible. There is absolutely no commitment until, and if, a contract is signed with an installer.
Since 2014, 546 contracts have been signed through LEAP’s Solarize program, generating more than 4.3 MW of solar capacity and more than $12 million in construction value with regional solar contractors. As residential energy rates continue to rise in the region and emissions take a toll on the environment, the energy cost savings and emission-free power from photovoltaic systems make solar a great investment.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers
LEAP has partnered with installers who also offer Level 2 EV chargers, which, at 240 volts, charge to a 10-20 mile range per hour, on average. With electric vehicle sales skyrocketing and high solar interest among EV owners, Solarize participants can now bundle both for additional savings. As a bonus, installing solar panels and an EV charger at the same time reduces electrician fees.
Battery Storage
This year, Solarize Virginia is offering participants the opportunity to install battery storage systems, in addition to solar arrays and EV charging stations. While battery storage can be expensive, Solarize Virginia installers are providing competitive rates to make them more financially accessible.
When battery storage is used in conjunction with solar, it gives individuals the possibility of receiving a credit on their utility bill for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy that is sent back to the grid, to be applied to the bill when the customer needs more electricity than the panels are producing. LEAP will help participants determine if battery storage is right for them, through its free evaluation of their energy usage and solar potential.
Chris Miller, President, Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC)
“Pursuing rooftop solar is a great way for individuals and families to take direct action on clean energy. Solarize Piedmont helps by making the process of getting solar a little bit easier with pre-vetted installers who offer per-watt pricing that’s been negotiated in advance.”
Chris Meyer, Executive Director, Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP)
“At LEAP, we believe in efficiency first. That is why we provide free solar and home energy assessments to all Solarize participants. Now more than ever, we are seeing increased demand and support for solar in Virginia. We are proud to partner with the Piedmont Environmental Council to make solar accessible and affordable to all Central Virginia residents and business owners.”
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Since 1972, The Piedmont Environmental Council has proudly promoted and protected the natural resources, rural economy, history and beauty of the Virginia Piedmont. PEC empowers residents to protect what makes the Piedmont a wonderful place, and works with citizens to conserve land, improve air and water quality and build thriving communities. PEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and accredited land trust. Learn more at www.pecva.org
The Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Charlottesville, VA. As a trusted nonprofit, LEAP delivers direct education and services for improved energy performance that address climate change; create cost savings for families and businesses; healthier, safer, and more durable buildings; and local jobs and economic growth. Learn more about www.leap-va.org. Facebook: Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP). Twitter: @LEAP_VA. Instagram: @leap_va | @solarizevirginia