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California Solar Initiative

DEFINITION

State law that requires counties to offer solar incentive programs that reduce the cost of converting one’s home to solar energy.

EXPLANATION

The increase in modern technology has led to advancements in heating and cooling. Solar heating has become a popular choice for consumer heating and cooling needs. There are two common forms of solar heating. The two forms of solar are passive solar and active solar systems.

The most common form of solar power is solar heating panels. Through the California Solar Initiative which took effect in 2008, local governments have created programs geared at bringing down the costs of purchasing solar energy through subsidies paid out to solar companies. In effect, the government pays for part of a homeowners solar panel purchase. To find out more information about solar incentive programs visit www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/csi. The government also promotes the solar industry by offering rebates, tax incentives, and discounts. Consumers can expect discounts of nearly 30% towards the purchase of solar panels through the use of vouchers, government programs, and factory rebates.

Another common form of solar energy is passive solar. An example of passive solar is the use of heat absorbing materials such as certain tiles or sunlight coming through the windows of a home. Any product that acts as heat absorbing material is considered passive solar.

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