Raleigh, N.C.-headquartered Progress Energy has unveiled SunSense, an expanded solar energy strategy focused on increasing the use of solar energy in the Carolinas and Florida. SunSense is expected to expand the scope and use of solar energy in the Carolinas and Florida by more than 100 MW over the next decade. The cost of implementing the program is expected to have minimal impact on customer bills, the company notes.
A new residential program will be offered starting late this summer in the Carolinas and in 2010 in Florida. Proposed incentives offer a range of $1.50 to $2 per watt for residential customer solar PV installations, which represents about 25% of the installed cost of the system.
A residential solar water heating program, already established in Florida and under way in the Carolinas, includes rebates for customers who install solar water heating systems.
A commercial solar PV program also will be available this summer in the Carolinas and in 2010 in Florida. Commercial customers installing solar PV will be paid per kilowatt-hour for energy produced. Incentive payments for energy production will be market-based. The company will provide additional details in the near future.
A commercial solar water heating program, providing incentives for commercial customers to install solar water heating, is starting this summer in the Carolinas. At this time, there is not a similar program available to Florida customers.
Finally, a solar for schools program includes a partnership to install PV on schools in the company's service areas. Selected schools served by Progress Energy Carolinas and Progress Energy Florida will receive 2 kW PV installation at no cost.
SOURCE: Progress Energy
