Listen to global climate change expert Dr. Robert Howarth. He shares the growing importance of making more sustainable infrastructure. Dr. Howarth highlights the impacts of shale gas extraction emissions on our environment.

WATER HEATED BY THE SUN

There has been more and more conversations about another type of solar energy; solar hot water.  Did you know solar hot water dates back centuries? Do you know it is the most efficient solar technology available? Have you ever thought about how your water is heated? Did you know that solar could off-set natural gas, electric-heated or propane hot water heaters? Well, it can!

REBATES AVAILABLE FOR SOLAR HOT WATER

The best news is no matter how you heat your water there are rebates available for you. Currently solar is one of the strongest ways to invest your money and lock in your independence against volatile energy prices. “The sun’s heat energy is clean and abundant, and the solar water heating technology is efficient,” said Gary Barsley, manager of SCE’s Solar and Self-Generation programs. “That makes solar water heating systems a smart way to generate hot water for your home or business.” Read more about the CSI-Thermal rebates

WHY SOLAR HOT WATER

1)  What? 1/3 the price! Yes. SWH heating systems are one-third the price of solar electric
and $1 for $1 produce more energy.

2) Rebates. The savings with SWH technology is better than ever, with maximum utility
rebates of $1850 and an additional 30% Federal Tax Credit. Get back some value as a
utility ratepayer for clean, green technology.

3) It only takes two. Two solar water heating collectors can supply a family of 4 with
between 60%-75% of their water heating needs annually. And at 90% efficient,                                                                                               you should consider hedging against your future utility bills with a SWH system.

Arnold Bloom, UC Davis Professor and resident, makes Good Day Sacramento's Melissa Cabral chuckle regarding his lifespan with solar. Aztec Solar Customer on Good Day Sacramento

In this short interview Arnold talks about his 5 year payback for his Solar Hot Water system installed by Aztec Solar. Arnold and his wife Joy, have a lot of enthusiasm regarding their decision for solar hot water, Aztec was a great solution for their remodel. They are both happy with their system, harvesting plenty of hot water from the sun, saving money monthly on their utility bills and at the same time supporting local business. The bloom family enjoyed a nice rebate from PG&E as well as a 30% federal tax credit. Arnold says he wouldn't go solar if it was not economically viable, however it also means something to him as a Professor of Climate Change to do his part in this energy game.  Find out more about going solar thermal on your home.

Catch it on Channel 13 Monday morning- April 16, 2012

The stylish Sacramento Pizza Spot, The Hot Italian, serves up the most unique and yummy pizzas in the region, and heat their water in an innovative way as well, with solar! According to Hot Italian owner Andrea Lepore ” Our utility bills are very low, especially for a space that is basically 6,000 sq ft.”   http://www.fastcasual.com/article/181402/Hot-Italian-serves-up-high-style-sustainability

Solar expert and Aztec Solar president, Ed Murray, was called upon for his experience as a solar installation company for 30 years, to address the growing concerns of permit approvals for home owners going solar. Although this may seem like a concern, Aztec Solar doesn’t let that stop them from getting the job done promptly, that’s what experience and longevity in the industry assures you.

For more on the story: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/05/01/3590755/permit-process-clouds-solar-energy.html

If rising utility costs is not inspiring you to call upon the services of your local solar company, then perhaps the new findings about your home values may. The study by Lawrence Berkeley’s National Laboratory suggests the value increase of an installed PV system is estimated at a premium of $17,000, a significant chunk of change in current home sales. This study focuses on PV, but if the trends continue we can predict that similar increases will occur for other types of home solar, such as solar pool heating and solar water heating systems.

If you would like to read more please go to: http://summitcountyvoice.com/2011/04/24/photovoltaic-systems-add-to-home-resale-values/

There are many ways to celebrate the coming of Spring and remembering our Earth in bloom with Earth Day.  Participating in the numerous events happening throughout the greater Sacramento Area is one option- see a brief list below. Another is making a new pledge- think of it as a mid-year resolution- adding a new practice into your daily living that saves a tree, helps the air, lightens your footprint, or betters your community.

Aztec Solar has committed to lowering our electric demand with a simple act. Killing the dead loads. Yes, all those little plugged in items are still drawing juice and add up in the overall load demand in a business operation. We have committed to unplugging or switching off paper shredders, computer monitors, using energy saving modes  after hours and turning off lights during breaks and lunch hour. Its simple, but practical and something that will remain with us permanently.

If you are unsure what would work for you, check out a film at the Do Something REEL film festival in Sacramento – its happening tonight…

The Earth is stronger than us and it will rejuvenate the human impact if we give it a break and allow time for healing.

Earth Day Celebrations

Do Something REEL film festival

http://dosomethingreel.com/screenings/results.php?t=38.581896&g=-121.2067&zc=95742

Aztec Solar has been working with a solar technology company who has designed a total solar home, offering a sleek design and optimum rebates. Come see this exclusive product at the Aztec Solar booth A62.

Visit Aztec Solar at Booth A 62

http://www.vacahomeshow.com/

April is such a lovely time of year, when we awaken our connection to the great outdoors. The sun has actually graced us with an entire week of its glorious rays. When you think of it, the sun has so many applications, it is the  origins of photosynthesis, provides us with vital Vitamin D and in the 21st century is capable of meeting a growing percentage of our energy loads, through solar energy.

What is newsworthy of solar today is that the technology is evolving and therefore offers increasing options for the home owner. It is amazing to think that the technology that was only viable through NASA in the 20th century is now being installed on peoples homes.

So do me a favor… as you enjoy the sun this April, think about what it can do for your home, your utility bills and your earth now and 20+ years down the road. Remember those solar operated satellites launched proudly in the late 50′s. Yeap they are still orbiting today…

What a wonderful planet we live on, take the initiative this month to show your respect of our home.

Perhaps patron a sustainable business in the greater Sacramento area: http://www.sacberc.org/Web/programs/ssbp/busListing.php