Feb 24th, 2011 All Colorado Solar installers are in a holding pattern waiting for word from the PUC on the Future of the Xcel Energy Solar Rewards Program. Xcel is requesting $.025 per installed DC KW of solar PV. We have calculated a reasonable payback and figure that if panel prices fall off a cliff this year that we will be offering close to a 20 year payback with 2 tier billing rates in the 3 summer months by Xcel. In this model it includes the Federal Government’s 30% tax credit. We apologize for not being more aggressive on selling solar and congratulate those that have installed solar in Colorado. SunOneness Solar thinks that we may end up with $1.25 a watt rebate, but are expecting the PUC to grant Xcel's miniscule rebate amounts. We are going to be in communications with the PUC to oppose this move by Xcel. The PUC will rule most likely in May. Amendment 37 has been decimated in the freeze for the Solar Rewards Program being taken hostage by the utility companies. Currently not only has the rewards program been destroyed, but we can not apply for a net-meter to install solar in Xcel territory. No Solar applications are being accepted at this time by Xcel. The future of SunOneness Solar is in jeopardy for installing Solar in Colorado Xcel territory. Our goal is to continue selling and installing solar as one of the states lowest cost installers. Phil Delamere CEO |