The GEO’s 2009 Solar Rebate Program ended on June 30th and was a great
success. A result of the close collaboration of community non-profits,
municipalities, Rural Electric Associations, solar contractors, energy
auditors, and Colorado residents and businesses, the results achieved in
the program’s first year included:

• A total of 499 solar energy systems were installed resulting in 2.36 megawatts of production capacity. This is enough energy to power 486 homes every year with 100% solar energy.
• A total of $2,433,919 in rebates was issued resulting in $9,278,000 in direct system investment, a significant portion of which was generated in economically depressed regions of the state.
• Eighteen direct jobs were created within program partner organizations and solar contracting companies.
• The instillations avoided 2,443 Metric Tons of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of taking 447 passenger cars off the road for 1 year.
• Five Colorado schools received grants for systems.

The GEO Solar Rebate Program is currently being upgraded and finalized.

You can expect to see an expanded version of this program for residents and businesses as a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

In the meantime:

• Xcel Energy customers should visit the Xcel Energy Web site forinformation about the Solar Rewards program.
• Black Hills Energy customers should visit the Black Hills Energy Web sitefor information about their rebate program.