Solar Panels Help Families Save on Utility Bills

Sept. 17, 2009 - PRLog -- Utilities across the country reported the highest rate increases in history last year. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which serves 8.8 million customers in seven states, raised their rates by 20 percent. Phil Minch has launched a new website to explain how homeowners can reduce their energy costs using solar panels. On his site, he two of the most popular kits available.

“You don’t have to sit idly by and watch your utility bills increase,” Minch said. “By adding solar panels to your home you can significantly reduce your utility bills.”

Minch’s website includes a step by step guide as to how to build the solar panels.

“You can do this even if you have never picked up a hammer and you think a screwdriver is a cocktail,” Minch said. “You don’t have to spend thousands on installation.”

Customers that have used the kits have reported savings between 25 and 70 percent on their utility bills. But the savings go beyond the bills. Congress recently extended a 30 percent tax credit for homeowners who install solar energy methods. And lawmakers lifted the $2,000 cap on the tax credit. Many state and local governments are offering tax breaks and incentives for homeowners how use solar energy.

“The reason for these tax breaks and incentives is the movement to use more renewable energy sources,” Minch said. “It is predicted that 60 percent of the world’s energy will come from renewable sources by the year 2060. Those who start now can take advantage of these tax breaks and incentives.”