Oncor expands solar energy initiatives

DALLAS — Oncor recently expanded its solar energy initiatives to include the Texas solar water heating incentive program, Take a Load Off, which offers cash incentives for the purchase and installation of qualifying residential solar water heating systems.

Oncor expects to install about 1,100 new solar systems over the next four years through this $2 million program. Only homes served by Oncor and using electric water heating systems are eligible.

“Oncor is committed to bring creative ways to support development of solar power, save energy and protect the environment,” said Michael Stockard, director of Oncor Energy Efficiency Programs. “Water heating consumes the most energy in a home after space heating and cooling. Installing a solar water heating system means consumers can use solar power to replace electricity. In Texas, harnessing the sun to do simple tasks like heating water just makes so much sense.”

By preheating water with the sun’s energy, systems typically reduce the electricity required for hot water needs by 40-85%. Oncor will pay an incentive of $600-$1,500 per installed system, based on the system’s predicted performance.

Oncor’s incentive program is one of 12 new programs it plans to offer this year to promote renewable energy and encourage energy efficiency. With the introduction of these new programs, Oncor will administer a total of 31 programs that encourage energy efficiency.

“Homeowners, developers and building contractors are looking increasingly towards solar energy as an innovative and sensible solution for their properties,” said Stockard. “Oncor is encouraging development of the solar industry and helping consumers to get involved with renewable energy through the Solar Water Heating Incentive Program and the recently announced Solar Photovoltaic Incentive Program.”

Additional information is available at: http://www.takealoadofftexas.com/.