Dec. 11, 2006 - Rebates for solar-energy systems begin after Dec. 14

Contact(s):
Sarah Van Pelt, Environmental Affairs, (303) 441-1914
Yael Gichon, Environmental Affairs, (303) 441-3878
Jodie Carroll, Media Relations, (303) 441-3155
http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/

City of Boulder sales and use tax paid on solar energy systems after Dec. 14 will be eligible for a tax rebate. Boulder City Council approved an ordinance in November to provide rebates for a portion of sales and use tax on both solar electric (photovoltaic) and solar thermal (hot water) systems. The ordinance was passed to encourage residents and businesses to install renewable energy systems in the City of Boulder.

"Boulder is really taking the lead on renewable energy programs," said city Council Member Richard Polk who proposed the ordinance. "The city, which also recently approved a Climate Action Plan that includes the nation's first ‘Carbon Tax,' is actively working to bring down the cost of investing in a sustainable energy future."

Residents and businesses paying the tax will receive thirty-five percent of the rebates. The remaining sixty-five percent will be used to rehabilitate or install renewable energy systems on affordable housing and site-based non-profit organizations, adding a social benefit to the ordinance.

Estimates indicate that in 2007 rebates are likely to total over $50,000, assuming that approximately 500 kW of photovoltaics will be installed. Anticipated changes in federal and state incentive legislation could substantially increase this number.

"This incentive program promotes local solar-energy companies and economic vitality by encouraging residents to work with Boulder-based businesses," said the city's Environmental Coordinator Sarah Van Pelt.  "With Amendment 37 rebates and federal tax credits, the solar rebate ordinance makes it more affordable than ever to install a solar-energy system in Boulder."

This rebate will bring Boulder closer to meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals defined in the Climate Action Plan. Using conservative estimates, solar electric installations will achieve one percent of the overall goal annually, representing at least six percent by 2012.

For information on how to obtain a rebate, contact the Office of Environmental Affairs http://www.environmentalaffairs.com/ and Planning and Development Services http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/.

For more information, contact Sarah Van Pelt at (3030-441-1914 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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Last Updated on Tuesday, 09 January 2007 07:09