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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2009
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Orie Says State Rebates Now Available to Install Solar Energy Systems 

Pennsylvania consumers and small businesses can now apply for rebates of up to 35 percent to offset the cost of buying and installing solar-energy systems, according to Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny).  

Orie said the rebates will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis under the Pennsylvania Sunshine Program.  The program was created as part of the Alternative Energy Funding Act, which Orie voted for.           

“This program is a win-win for Pennsylvania because it helps consumers save money, it encourages the use of green energy and helps to reduce energy consumption,” Orie said.  “By going solar, we can become more energy efficient, improve our environment, and help folks save money on their monthly energy bills.” 

Orie said the legislature has approved $100 million for the rebate program and he expects all that money to be used.  So he urged area residents and businesses to apply quickly for funding.   

Residential applicants must be Pennsylvania residents and must be the owner of the home where the project will be installed. Vacation homes and investment properties do not qualify for funding. 

Small business applicants must be for-profit businesses located within Pennsylvania with no more than 100 full-time employees.  

Orie explained that consumers and businesses must choose an installer from the Department of Environmental Protection’s qualified installer list. That installer will submit a pre-installation application on the applicant’s behalf. When the pre-installation application has received department approval, then a reservation will be made for a rebate. 

For more information on how to apply and a list of qualified installers, applicants can go to www.depweb.state.pa.us/pasunshine.

CONTACT:

Mike Sarfert
(717) 787-6538