Solar Blog

How Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) Allow Businesses And Homeowners To Go Solar.

2009-09-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

A financing option known as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is available to business and home owners who are looking to go solar but for a fraction of the cost. A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a legal contract between an electricity generator (PPA Provider) and a host site owner/lessor (business/home owner). The business/home owner purchases energy from the PPA Provider at a contractual price (typically at current or discounted utility rates) for a negotiated number of years. This allows business/home owners to lock in current energy costs all the while going green. The biggest advantage to the business/home owner is a predictable monthly electricity payment not subject to utility price volatility. Although most PPA contracts will have an inflation escalator year to year (typically 3-5%), it is still below the historical utility increase of 7+% each year.

In addition to energy cost containment, under the terms of a PPA, the PPA provider assumes the risks and responsibilities of ownership such as the purchase, operation, and maintenance of the solar facility. However, because the PPA Provider is the owner of the solar system, all tax credits, grants, and utility rebates belong to the PPA Provider. If you are looking into a PPA you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages summarized below:

Advantages

Current/discounted utility costs
Hedge against energy costs
Long-term predictable energy costs
Use of Solar Energy For A Fraction of the solar system market value
Customer only pays for energy produced
Customer can advertise it's use of "clean energy"

Disadvantages

Client not eligible for tax incentives, grants, and utility rebates
Client does not own system
Client pays for energy produced regardless of actual usage
15 to 25 Years of PPA payments depending on contract terms

For more information on whether or not a PPA is appropriate for you, contact us at:
info@djhconstruction.com or (949)233-1618.

DJH Construction, Inc. Completes A Solar Installation On A Habitat for Humanity Project

2009-08-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

Habitat for Humanity solar project makes the front page of the September 1, 2009 issue of the Mojave Valley Daily News. The project was made possible by the efforts of DJH Construction, Inc., Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, and Mojave Electric Cooperative.

To read more about the project, click on the link below or paste the link to your browser.

http://www.mohavedailynews.com/articles/2009/09/01/news/local/local2.txt

Why Going Solar Is More Affordable Now?

2009-07-15T16:33:00.000-07:00

If you have been looking into going solar but think it is too expensive, you may be able to go green sooner than you think.

Anyone who has looked into going solar or wants to go solar can now benefit from the decrease in solar panel prices and the increase in federal and state incentives that subsidize solar. According to investment bank analysts at Piper Jaffray, the price of panels have dropped nearly 40 percent compared to last year. What is driving the cost down? Simple supply and demand as well as the decreasing cost of raw materials.

Although solar demand has increased in the United States due to federal and state incentives, overall worldwide demand has decreased. The decrease in demand is in large effect from the decreasing solar subsidies in European countries, making the installation of solar more cost-prohibitive with a longer payback period. According to Emerging Energy Research, a consulting firm, solar photovoltaic installations in Europe are forecasted to fall by nearly 26 percent compared to last year.

The decreasing cost and availability of polysilicon (the key component to most types of manufactured solar) has also contributed to the decrease in solar panel costs. More overseas companies, especially in China have become involved in the direct manufacturing of polysilicon which has decreased the overall cost of manufacturing the panel. Consumers can also benefit from the technological advances in the solar industry that have lead to increased efficiency in the solar modules manufactured today. This means fewer panels with greater energy output.

In addition to the decreasing cost of panels, consumers can also take advantage of available federal and state solar rebates, credits, and grants to further decrease the net cost of their solar system. To better understand what solar incentives are available in your state, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency at: www.dsireusa.org.

Attention Business Owners - 30% Solar Grant Now Available

2009-07-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

The Department of the Treasury has recently made available the instructions to apply for the Renewable Energy Grant. This grant is part of the Section 1603 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009. It authorizes the US Department of the Treasury to make payments in the form of a cash grant to commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties that install a qualified renewable energy system such as a solar photovoltaic system.

Where previously the 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allowed solar investors to reduce their tax liability by the amount of the tax credit, Section 1603 now allows investors the option to access a cash grant instead. This is advantageous to those who are looking to invest in solar but do not have the tax liability to take advantage of the 30% tax credit. Although the tax credit can be carried forward into the subsequent tax year, the full benefit of the 30% tax credit cannot be realized until taxes are filed. The grant provides a great alternative to the ITC. The solar grant allows investors to receive a cash grant within 60 days or less of the grant application or the date the solar system is placed in service, whichever is later.

If you are interested in taking advantage of the 30% grant, below is a list of eligibility and provisions for Section 1603:

o Only tax-paying entities are eligible for this grant.
o Applicable Sectors: Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural
o Grants are available to “eligible property* placed in service in 2009 or 2010
o Eligible solar-energy property includes equipment that uses solar energy to generate electricity (photovoltaics), to heat or cool (or provide hot water for use in) a structure, or to provide solar process heat. Passive solar systems and solar pool-heating systems are not eligible. Hybrid solar-lighting systems, which use solar energy to illuminate the inside of a structure using fiber-optic distributed sunlight, are eligible.
o Grant applications must be submitted by October 1, 2011
o The Treasury will make Section 1603 payments to qualified applicants equal to 30% of the basis of the solar photovoltaic property - this includes solar equipment, installation, and freight.

Contact us to learn more about this grant and other incentives for your solar installation at info@djhconstruction.com.

Renewable Energy Trike On Display At The 2009 4th of July Huntington Beach Parade.

2009-06-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc. recently donated solar equipment to the E/Motion electric vehicle project at Golden West College (GWC). This solar powered trike model electric vehicle will be on display at the 2009 4th of July Huntington Beach parade. Professor Greg Wight’s transportation design students conceived and created the E/Motion electric vehicle and DJH Construction donated (3) 20 Watt YingLi Solar Modules and a 10 Amp Charge Controller. The solar modules and charge controller will be retrofitted on the hybrid (pedal/electric) trike to charge the battery using the sun’s energy. This is the first of many future prototypes that will be created by the students at GWC’s design school utilizing solar technology. Stop by our exhibit to learn more about solar powered vehicles:

Date: July 4th, 2009
Location: 325 Pacific Coast Highway, HB, 92648 (Main & Pacific Coast Highway / Huntington Beach Pier - Huntington Beach, CA)
Event Time:
• Parade 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Exhibitors – Food Vendors – Live Entertainment 10 a.m. – 9p.m.
• Fireworks Show 9 p.m.

View this trike in action at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCgihzmxoQ8

How Arizona Residents Can Tap Into Local, State and Federal Incentives To Go Solar

2009-06-17T15:57:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc., a leading integrator of solar electric power systems announced the completion of a residential photovoltaic installation located in Fort Mojave, Arizona. This 5.06 kW system was installed on the residence of Larry Morse. The solar project was completed from beginning to end in two and a half weeks. This includes: contract signing, permitting, utility rebate reservation, final inspection, and commissioning/start-up. The actual installation itself was completed in two days after materials delivery.

Current incentives available to Fort Mojave residents include: a Utility Rebate, State Tax Credit, and Federal Tax Credit. Mohave Electric Cooperative customers are able to take advantage of a $3.00/watt utility rebate with a $12,000 maximum. This means that clients like Morse are able to offset the cost of installation by the amount of the rebate. In addition to the rebate, Morse will be able to take advantage of a $1,000 Arizona Tax Credit and 30% Federal Tax Credit. The basis for the tax credits is calculated from the net cost of the installed system, the cost after deducting the rebate amount.

The 5.06 kW photovoltaic system ties together a total of 22 Sharp photovoltaic panels onto 900 square feet of roof space. The estimated reduction in green house gas emissions from this system is estimated to be 141 tons of CO2 over the 25+ years. This reduction in green house gas emissions is equivalent to planting 5,648 trees or driving 478,644 miles in a small car.

"The Morse's solar project is another step in DJH Construction, Inc.’s long-term commitment to advance the delivery of renewable energy to the grid. We are grateful to play an active role in growing this nascent market in Fort Mojave and surrounding counties,” said Don Harris, president of DJH Construction, Inc.

How To Use Property Tax Assessments to Finance Your Solar System.

2009-06-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

California passed AB 811 in September 2008, giving all California cities and counties the ability to offer low-interest loans for renewable energy projects to homeowners and small businesses. The cities are able to finance the installation costs through either City internal funds or the issuance of a bond and the project is secured through a property lien. The cost of the bond is then recouped over a specific time frame and repayment is made through tax rolls. For example, in the City of Palm Desert, AB811 offers a low interest rate loan (so far at 7% amortized over 20 years) from the City and is repaid every six months along with the County property tax payment.

Some of the advantages to AB811 are:
• Transferability - Residents would pay back the loans through assessments on property tax bills; if they move, the outstanding loan balance is taken over by the new owner.
• Little to No Out of Pocket Money - The renewable energy property owner immediately enjoys a greatly reduced electric bill with no out-of-pocket expense.
• Access to Capital - It requires NO credit check and can pass to new owners of property without future credit checks through title transfer at escrow. Loans have a minimum of $5,000 and no maximum limits.
• Small Payments Over Longer Time - The interest rate is fixed and paid bi-annually through property taxes.

California cities currently offering this financial vehicle are:

- Berkeley - Financing Initiative for Renewable and Solar Technology (FIRST)
- Palm Desert - Energy Independence Program
- Santa Monica - Solar Santa Monica
- Sonoma County - Energy Independence Program

For more information on how you can access AB 811 or other solar financing options, contact us at info@djhconstruction.com. You can read this press release at:
http://www.prlog.org/10260739-how-to-use-property-tax-assessments-to-finance-your-solar-system.html

Join Us At the Semi-Annual Virtual Energy Forum June 24-25, 2009

2009-06-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

Join DJH Construction at the next virtual energy forum June 24-25, 2009.
The Virtual Energy Forum is a free conference that brings together stakeholders in the energy industry with potential customers, policy makers, and investors. The event, which meets twice a year and features live video presentations, real-time Q & A and a virtual exhibit floor, answers the need many senior executives have today--to better understand how to implement renewable and cost-saving energy-efficient practices in business.

The conference meets entirely online, making it time and cost-efficient to attend from the convenience of any computer, offering a greener way to gather.

The Virtual Energy Forum features . . .
• Live video keynote presentations from renewable energy and sustainability thought leaders.
• Get your questions answered by these experts in real-time!
• Live video track presentations feature case studies in industries such as consumer goods, healthcare, government, education and retail.
• Browse a virtual exhibit floor featuring product & service solutions from energy innovators.
• Chat live with exhibitors or other attendees and exchange contact information.

DJH Construction representatives will be present for the following webcasts:

"Solar Energy: Understanding the Deal Components"
"Embracing the Renewable Energy Future"
"Sustainable Capital Planning"

To signup or for more information on this forum, visit: http://www.virtualenergyforum.com/

The Solar Energy Council of Orange County Hosts It's First Event

2009-06-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

The Solar Energy Council of Orange County (SEC-OC) hosted a "Go Solar Now" event at the Golden West College in Huntington Beach, California last night. The event featured guest speakers: Don Harris of DJH Construction, Inc. and Laura Franke of Clean Energy Advocates. Both speakers presented different topics on the Obama stimulus package and how it will affect the solar installation community during 2009. This event was organized to assist in clarifying many misconceptions of what is allowable, and what is not allowed for solar installations under the economic stimulus act, AB811, and SB1. In addition, an overview of financing and PPA options for system developers and homeowners was also addressed. Laura Franke presented SB811, SB1 and muncipal requirements for government guaranteed loans for renewable energy projects. Don Harris presented on various solar financing options: Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), Renewable Energy Certificates (REC), and Renewable Energy Portfolio (REP) standards.

The turn out was a huge success and a great networking event that brought together solar advocates and professionals from all over the Orange County area. The SEC-OC is looking to expand its membership base and is open to the public. Please visit the SEC-OC website at: www.solarenergycouncil.org for more information on future events and membership opportunities.

This press release can be viewed at:
The Solar Energy Council of Orange County Hosts A "Go Solar Now" Event

Street Smart San Diego 2009

2009-06-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

The California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) presented the 3rd Annual Street Smart San Diego event. The latest alternative fuel vehicles were on display throughout the expo. Some of the green technology featured at this event were: electric, solar, hybrid, and water. DJH Construction attended this event to view the latest in solar technology for everything from solar powered golf carts to big wheels. To learn more about future events, visit:
www.streetsmartsandiego.org

The Solar Energy Council is Expanding to Orange County, CA (SEC-OC)

2009-05-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Solar Energy Council (SEC) of the Inland Empire is expanding its reach to include a branch in Orange County, CA. The mission of the Solar Energy Council of Orange County (SEC-OC) is to promote the use of solar through advocacy, education and community outreach. The Council addresses concerns about the growth of the solar industry and fosters business to business relationships. In addition, the Council will advocate legislation on solar initiatives and serve as a clearing house on vital information to the industry.

Heading up this initiative is a diverse group of companies and individuals representing a broad spectrum of expertise in solar: DJH Construction, Inc., Eco-Hut Academy LLC, Altec Resources, Keyshot and Golden West College. Their leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing the Council’s solar message within the Orange County community. The Solar Energy Council (SEC-OC) is pleased to announce the election of new officers for 2009–2010:

• Jon Dugal- Executive Director.
• Rob Srinivas of Eco-Hut Academy – Board of Director Solar Energy Council/ Steering Committee Chair/Marketing Committee Co-Chair.
• Don Harris of DJH Construction, Inc. – Board of Director Solar Energy Council/ Steering Committee Co-Chair/ SEC-OC branch Treasurer/ Education Committee.
• Tom Hersh and Marius Cucurny of Golden West College –Education Committee SEC-OC branch.
• Essie Jourabchian, Electrical Contractor – SEC-OC branch Secretary.
• JC Chericky of Altec Resources –Membership Committee
• Juan Benavides of Keshot – Marketing Committee

The SEC-OC is open to all supporters of solar energy in Orange County and beyond. Membership is open and encouraged by those serving all aspects of the solar industry. Visit our website at www.solarenergycouncil.org for more information.

DJH Construction, Inc. Completes the Installation of a 6.44kW Solar System Incorporating a Direct Monitoring System

2009-05-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Another California homeowner in San Clemente goes green with solar. DJH Construction, Inc. recently completed a 6.44 kW DC/5.434 kW AC installation at the residence of John Franks. The estimated annual production is expected to be about 9,750 kWh. The solar system ties together a total of 28 Sharp 230W solar panels and will reduce an estimated 167 tons of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years.

The Franks home is the first to go solar in this mobile homes community and incorporate a direct monitoring system. ShoreCliffs Mobile HOA manages the mobile parks community and sub-meters out a monthly utility invoice to each of its residents. By installing the direct monitoring system the Franks will receive a monthly utility credit in direct proportion to the energy production of their solar system. Through the implementation of this direct monitoring system, our homeowner will not only be able to retrieve data on production but also consumption habits. The monitoring system helps homeowners increase their awareness of electricity use and encourage more energy efficient behavior. The data recorded allows users to view historical data for seasonal or other comparisons and access live system data in real-time through the web or web-enabled mobile devices. In addition to this, the system performance is monitored and automatic maintenance alerts are generated when the system is not functioning optimally.

Habit for Humanity Goes Solar In Bullhead City, Arizona

2009-04-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc., a leading integrator of solar electric power systems has been selected to install a 3.78 kW photovoltaic solar system on a Habitat for Humanity project in Bullhead City, Arizona. The solar project is a result of the alliance between Habitat for Humanity, Mojave Electric Cooperative and DJH Construction, Inc. The project is a first for the Habitat for Humanity chapter in Bullhead City. Habitat for Humanity is a Christian organization that builds homes for the underprivileged and is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide.

“We are honored to be chosen to participate in a project that allows us to contribute philanthropically through clean power generation. This project presents a unique opportunity to get solar into a sector that normally would not have the ability to purchase it,” said Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc. “We look forward to participating in more solar projects with Habitat for Humanity and the larger non-profit sector.”

DJH Construction, Inc. Completes a 2.99 kW Residential Photovoltaic System in Fort Mojave, Arizona.

2009-04-15T12:26:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc., a leading integrator of solar electric power systems announced the completion of a residential photovoltaic installation located in Fort Mojave, Arizona. The 2.99 kW system was installed on the residence of Scott and Elaine Seabury and is expected to reduce more than 86 tons of CO2 over its 25+ year lifetime. The reduction in green house emissions is equivalent to traveling 177,526 air miles or driving 291,864 miles in a small car. "Our decision to go solar reflects the value we place on green technology and environmental stewardship,” said Scott Seabury.

DJH Construction, Inc. financed a portion of the system for the Seabury’s utilizing the 30% Renewable Energy Grant available through the Department of the Treasury. The federal grant program is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 that was enacted in February 2009. The grant is equal to 30% of the basis of the property for solar energy. Eligible solar-energy property includes equipment that uses solar energy to generate electricity, to heat or cool (or provide hot water for use in) a structure, or to provide solar process heat. For more information about the grant, check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency under the Federal Incentives tab. Or follow the link: .

DJH Construction, Inc’s solar financing program allows residents to reduce their total out of pocket costs to go solar and take advantage of lower annual electricity costs by supplementing their current energy usage with solar. "We have a great deal of experience as a solar systems integrator and that experience is one of our key competitive advantages," said Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc. "By making the 30% grant immediately available to our clients it enables us to give our clients more flexibility in their financing options to go solar."

The Solar Energy Council of the Inland Empire Elects Don Harris of DJH Construction, Inc. To the Board of Directors.

2009-04-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

Today, the Solar Energy Council of the Inland Empire (SEC-IE) elects Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc. to its board of directors. Established in 2008, SEC-IE is the solar energy trade association of San Bernardino and Riverside counties. SEC-IE is comprised of more than 100 solar energy installers, manufacturers and purveyors of solar related equipment, services and technology. The mission of the council is to help provide a platform to educate the solar workforce and increase public awareness about alternative energy. The Solar Council provides a regional focus for training, professional development, study, and exchange of information among its members, the public, other professions, and government. Don Harris will play a key role in the education advisory committee to help raise public awareness of solar and promote sustainable regional economic welfare through job creation. “DJH Construction is proud to take part in the solar initiative led by SEC-IE to bring about solar awareness to the Inland Empire. Councils like this are critical to the Inland Empire’s future energy plans and its commitment to renewable energy resources,” said Harris.

Striving in a Tough Economy

2009-03-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc. has delivered a proposal to a orange county non-profit organization for the installation of a 570 kW solar photovoltaic system. The proposal valued at over $ 4.5 million dollars, will reduce the customers utility usage by 30%, producing over 871,977 kWh's a year. The project is said to have the potential to be one of the larger solar installations in Laguna Hills, CA. DJH Construction, Inc. is in talks with investors and Power Purchase Agreement companies that would possibly help provide the necessary financing to help this community go GREEN. Because the host customer is a non-profit, both entities are researching for investors to partner up with and provide the necessary financing to bring this project to fruition. Don Harris, President and CEO of DJH Construction, Inc. was quoted saying," The opportunities are there to make these deals come together, but where's the financing?. We have the ability to create jobs and yet we are still wondering why the banks will not see the value in these types of projects where the customer wants to save money, help the environment, and is spending the money on high cost energy already." A 4.5 million dollar installation would quality for a 1.5 million dollar grant and be eligible for almost 1 million dollars in rebate incentive from the utility as well as it would be eligible for accelerated depreciation with a 50% bonus in the first year. These type of incentive are wonderful to make deals happen if the financing can leak out of the banks vaults.

What Business Owners Should Consider Before Investing In Solar

2009-03-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Commercial buildings use approximately 40 percent of energy consumed in the United States today, so increasing the efficiency of buildings is one of the most effective ways to lower energy consumption, save money, and reduce carbon emissions. The last blog entry focused on the financial incentives for a residential solar system with the implementation of the Renewable Energy Grants (REG). We decided to provide a similar comparison for a 50kW commercial system to show business owners how they can capitalize on the REG. The assumptions of this comparison are:

1. PV System located in Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
2. Type: Commercial
3. Size: 50 kW
4. Utility: Southern California Edison (SCE)
5. Federal Corporate Tax Rate = 34%
6. State Corporate Tax Rate = 8%
7. Note: Calculations do not take into consideration time and value of money

Below is a table summarizing the results:

The difference in the ITC versus the REG is still greater on commercial systems as it is on residential. In our hypothetical analysis it is almost a $5,000 cost difference. The estimated cost per watt including utility rebates, grants, and depreciation bring the net cost of the system down to less than $3.00/watt.

Please note: Interested businesses should consult the federal tax code and/or a certified public accountant or tax attorney to determine exact eligibility and provisions of the incentives described above.

What Homeowners Should Know When Investing In Solar

2009-03-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

How does the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) stack up to the Renewable Energy Grant (REG) for homeowners? We did a hypothetical cost comparison between the two based on the following assumptions:

- Type: Residential
- Utility: Southern California Edison
- Rebate: Step 3, $2.20/Watt
- California state tax on rebate (this is still to be determined)

Here is what we found:

According to the results, the incentive for the REG is greater than the ITC by more than $3,400.00. This amount is even larger if the 30% tax credit is not taxed at the state level. Below is a table summarizing this scenario. The incentive increases by $0.23/watt, adding almost another $2,300 to the difference in the ITC vs. REG. Either way you look at it, the REG offers a great way for homeowners to offset the initial capital outlay of a solar system.

Renewable Energy Grant

2009-03-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

The enactment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 includes a renewable energy grant program that will help businesses and homeowners offset the initial cost of installing a solar system. To better understand how this grant works, we’ve compiled a short list of key points to the grant that you should consider:

1. Who is eligible?
Only tax-paying entities are eligible for this grant. Federal, state and local government bodies, non-profits, qualified energy tax credit bond lenders, and cooperative electric companies are not eligible to receive this grant. Partners or pass-thru entities for the organizations described above are also not eligible to receive this grant.

2. How much is the renewable energy grant?
30% of the basis of the property for solar energy.

3. What types of solar is eligible for the renewable energy grant?
Eligible solar-energy property includes equipment that uses solar energy to generate electricity, to heat or cool (or provide hot water for use in) a structure, or to provide solar process heat. Passive solar systems and solar pool-heating systems are NOT eligible. Hybrid solar-lighting systems, which use solar energy to illuminate the inside of a structure using fiber-optic distributed sunlight, are also eligible.

4. How is the grant paid?
The U.S. Treasury Department will make payment of the grant within 60 days of the grant application date or the date the property is placed in service, whichever is later.

5. Is the grant taxable?
The renewable energy grants will not be included in the federal gross income of the taxable entity, but it is unclear whether the federal grant will be treated as taxable income in the states. Check with your CPA for more information.

6. How long will the grant be available?
Grants are available to eligible property placed in service in 2009 or 2010, or placed in service by the specified credit termination date, if construction began in 2009 or 2010. For solar this is January 17, 2017 – which means the solar property must be placed in service by this date. In addition, grant applications must be submitted by 10/1/2011 in order to reserve the grant.

DJH Construction, Inc. Adds A C-10 Electrical License Classification.

2009-02-23T15:02:00.000-08:00

DJH Construction, Inc. is a licensed and bonded solar energy contractor. In addition to a B (General Construction) and C-46 (Solar) license, DJH has added a C-10(Electrical) license classification. The addition of the C-10 is further testament to DJH Construction, Inc.’s commitment to install high performance solar systems.

DJH Construction, Inc. Helps Bullhead City Homeowners Go Solar

2009-02-19T13:28:00.000-08:00

Bullhead City residents enjoy year-round sunshine and those going solar are tapping into this renewable resource to power their homes. According to Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the southwestern United States possesses a world-class, well-distributed, and nearly untapped solar energy resource. It is most abundant in California, Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico.

DJH Construction, Inc., a leading solar integration company, is helping homeowners in Bullhead City tap into this free and renewable resource by going SOLAR. Five significant incentives for homeowners include: a utility rebate, a 30% tax credit, a $1,000 Arizona State tax credit, and an Arizona property tax and sales tax exemption. In order to take advantage of the utility rebates, residents should contact their local utility to see what incentives are available and to reserve a rebate. Currently, Mojave Electric Cooperative is offering rebates of $4.00/watt DC up to $12,000 and UniSource Energy Services is offering residents $3.00/watt DC up to 60% of the cost of the system.

The financial benefits of going solar extend even further for business owners looking to go green. In addition to all the benefits the residential customer receives, a business is able to take advantage of an accelerated depreciation schedule and a larger Arizona state tax credit. The Arizona tax credit is equal to 10% of the installed cost up to $25,000 for any one building or a maximum of $50,000 in total credits in any one year. This state tax credit gives business owners the flexibility to apply the credit against their corporate or personal taxes. Business owners should consult their CPA regarding the benefits of the accelerated depreciation schedule and the federal tax credit as it pertains to their unique financial situation.

"We are encouraged by the growing demand for renewable energy by the residents of Bullhead City and look forward to installing many more high performance solar systems in Arizona," said Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc.

pdf version of press release: http://www.prlog.org/10190622-djh-construction-inc-helps-bullhead-city-homeowners-go-solar.pdf

DJH Construction, Inc. Announces the Completion of a 19.44 kW Residential Solar System in Santa Ana, California.

2009-02-18T10:25:00.000-08:00

SANTA ANA, CA., February 18, 2009 - DJH Construction, Inc., an Orange County based solar integration company, announced the completion of a 19.44 kW residential solar photovoltaic project in Santa Ana, California. This project is an excellent example of how DJH Construction, Inc. leveraged it’s unique engineering and design capabilities to coordinate the planning and management of this complex installation.

The 19.44 kW solar system was completed in January of 2009 on the residence of Jeremy and Sandy Kaslow. The photovoltaic system ties together a total of 90 photovoltaic panels onto over 1,530 square feet of roof space. The estimated annual production of this solar system is 29,144 kWh, providing almost 100% of the Kaslow’s electrical usage. The environmental impact of this system is a reduction in green house gas emissions by 500 tons of CO2 over the life of the system (25+ years). The reduction in green house gas emissions is equivalent to planting 19,996 trees or driving 1,694,576 miles in a small car. In addition to the utility savings, the Kaslow’s will receive a rebate check from their utility company and a 30% tax credit. “We are pleased to provide a quality installation to our clients and assist them in taking advantage of incentives that will provide long-term financial benefits,” said, Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc.

Continued support on the Federal and State level for solar will help facilitate integrating renewable energy solutions on more homes and businesses. On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into legislation the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - a stimulus bill that proposes to provide additional incentives to those seeking to invest in renewable energy. A key highlight to the recovery bill is the renewable energy grant that provides grants equal to 30 percent of the cost of the solar system. This program will be administered by the Department of the Treasury and is in lieu of the section 48 investment tax credit. In a recent interview, Harris said, “We are excited that the solar provisions in the stimulus bill will pave the way for the United States to become a leader in incorporating solar energy as a standard. This bill will help fuel the economy with jobs and growth amid the economic downturn. We look forward to the changes and are grateful to be a part of this rapidly growing industry."

Solar and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

2009-02-17T17:00:00.000-08:00

On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the Economic Recovery Legislation. This bill marks a historic milestone within the solar industry and proposes to create 60,000 jobs in the solar industry in 2009 and a total of 110,000 over the next two years.

Three key points to the bill specific to photovoltaic and thermal solar are:

1. Renewable Energy Grants
2. Repeals Penalty for Subsidized Renewable Energy Financing
3. Remove Limits on Solar Water Heating

The renewable energy grants is a new program administered through the Department of Treasury that provides grants equal to 30 percent of the cost of solar property placed in service during 2009 and 2010. This grant replaces the section 48 investment tax credit. (Div. B, Sec. 1104, p. 38)

The bill also repeals the penalty for subsidized renewable energy financing. This allows businesses and individuals to qualify for the full amount of the solar tax credit even if projects receive subsidized energy financing (e.g. below market loans, tax preferred bonds, state grants etc.). This amendment shall apply to periods after Dec. 31, 2008. (Div. B, Sec. 1103, p.36)

The stimulus bill also removes the $2,000 monetary cap on solar water heating, providing a full 30% credit for qualified solar water heating property (Div. B, Sec. 1122(a), p. 46). Qualified solar water heating property is defined as used for a purpose other than heating swimming pools and hot tubs. In addition, the credit may be claimed against the alternative minimum tax.

Welcome!

2009-01-09T16:36:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the DJH Construction, Inc. site blog. We have recently updated our website at djhConstruction.com and we'll be using this blog to add news and updates throughout the coming months. Stay tuned for tips and ideas on photovoltaics, alternative energy, and greening your home.

DJH Construction, Inc. Project Selected to be Showcased in 9th Annual Solar Homes Tour in San Diego.

2008-09-22T15:44:00.000-07:00

DJH Construction, Inc., an Orange County based solar installation construction company, announced their project has been selected to take part in the 9th Annual Solar Homes Tour in San Diego. Over 40 homes throughout San Diego County is anticipated to participate in this year’s home tour. This self-guided tour offers real-life, working examples of three residential solar energy technologies: solar electric (photovoltaics), solar water heating and solar pool heating. The tour will take place on Saturday, October 18th between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

DJH Construction, Inc. representatives will be available at the project site (2758 Unicornio Street, Carlsbad, CA 92009) to answer questions relating to the photovoltaic system, the solar industry, and current legislation that may affect residents looking to invest in solar. “We are honored that our project will be used to showcase the benefits of solar energy to California residents. This solar homes tour would not be possible without the leadership shown by the California Center for Sustainable Energy and their continued support of solar energy as a viable resource for California,” said, Don Harris, President of DJH Construction, Inc.

The 8.064kW system was installed in August of 2008 on the residence of Joseph and Kathy Metta. The photovoltaic system spans a total of 7 arrays. The system ties together a total of 36 photovoltaic panels onto over 800 square feet of roof space. The system will annually produce an estimated 11,394kWh with an average monthly utility savings of approximately $233. In addition to the monthly savings, the Mettas will receive a rebate check from their utility for about $14,863 and a Federal Tax Credit of $2,000. The system is expected to save the Mettas $69,776 in utility bills over the system’s expected life of 25+ years. The estimated reduction in green house gas emissions from this system is estimated to be 195 tons of CO2. This reduction in green house gas emissions is equivalent to planting over 7,800 trees or driving 661,356 miles in a small car.

The California Public Utilities Commission, through its California Solar Initiative, provides $2.2 Billion in incentives over the next decade for existing residential homes and existing and new commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties. On July 11, 2008, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Energy Division issued the fourth Progress Report on the California Solar Initiative (CSI) Program, and announced that there have been 59 MW of installations in the CSI program in the first half of 2008, which is the same number of megawatts installed statewide for all of 2006.

"We are pleased to install another residential, environmentally friendly photovoltaic system in the state of California. The state continues to be a leader in renewable energy installations, helping our nation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. We commend the Mettas for making the capital investment and taking the initiative to become more energy independent," said Harris.