Solar Hot Water
‘Made Easy’

The First Branch Sustainability Group, of which I am a member, is promoting the installation of solar hot water systems as a way to reduce global warming. We are hoping to have at least 50 homeowners in the area committed and ready to have systems installed by May 1.

Why solar hot water? Water heating is the second largest energy expense in most Vermont homes, after space heating. Solar hot water systems can provide more than two-thirds of the total water heating needs for most homes, even in our climate.

The technology is fairly simple and has been used extensively all over the world for more than 30 years. These systems are feasible for many homes and can reduce household energy consumption by 25%.

In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, installing a solar hot water system lowers CO₂ emissions by more than 2500 pounds a year for homes with propane water heaters and over 4000 pounds per year for those with electric heaters.

Installation costs are high, $5000 to $8000, but both the federal and state governments offer incentives that make the installation of solar systems much more affordable. Some banks, such as the Vermont State Credit Union, offer loans to cover the remaining costs under favorable conditions. The incentives reduce first costs by 35% or more.

So what are we doing about it? Our group is working with homeowners to facilitate the process of installing a solar hot water system. We are organizing public meetings on March 10 at the Chelsea Town Hall and March 24 at Tracy Hall in Norwich. Information about assessing the solar potential of sites, the types of systems available, and how to choose the best type to meet specific needs.

We have developed a worksheet to assist homeowners in planning a system and a list of local installers to contact. Some installers will display their products and answer questions. These meetings are funded by the Mascoma Savings Bank and co-sponsored by the Sustainable Energy Resource Group.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact Phil Mulligan at phillip@sover.net or 685-7784, or me at kathryn@westhillenergy.com or 685-3340.

Kathryn Parlin

Chelsea