A Real Renewable Energy Solar Project by One Who Did It

Going Solar        Solar Panels

Going Solar: A Homeowner's Experience
How the Author Cut His Electrical Bill 94%
Read About a Successful Renewable Energy Project by One Who Actually Did It
by Robert Brenner

When he decided to invest in a residential solar system, the author carefully logged each event in the process. Once the system was operational, he monitored its performance for 12 months. Then he wrote Going Solar: A Homeowner's Experience to describe how he decided on the size of solar power system he needed, who he contacted for advice, how he found qualified installers, how he evaluated proposals and selected the best vendor for the job, issues and challenges that occurred, the paperwork required, payment schedule, rebates, tax credits, and how he calculated investment payback. The book follows the complete process from start to finish in words and photos. See each step. Read about every facet of residential solar system procurement and installation. Follow the actual time line. See the actual costs involved. And learn for yourself the amazing results achieved after 12 months with a residential solar power generation system.

"As gas prices continue to head for the stratosphere, Robert Brenner's story of his own journey to energy independence is very timely. The message? Yes we can, and here's how."
— Shel Horowitz, award-winning author and owner of a solarized 1743 New England farmhouse

Read how this homeowner saved literally thousands of dollars on his electric bill by conducting smart research and purchasing an optimum residential photovoltaic solar system. Bids varied widely and selecting the best vendor was critical to getting the most for his money. One year after the solar system was installed, Brenner received his net metering final bill. The 94% reduction in his annual electrical costs demonstrated how successful this investment has been.

In simple language, Going Solar: A Homeowner's Experience explains how to procure and enjoy a residential photovoltaic solar power system. And the book describes the tangible benefits of going solar — reduced electrical bills, increased home value, and environmental improvement by reducing utility company carbon dioxide emissions.


"I want to thank you for making the book. It is outstanding."
— Dan Sullivan, Sullivan Solar Power - San Diego, CA

Besides saving money, Brenner is doing his part to keep the air we breathe clean and fresh. Now he is sharing his experience with others.

Here's what you'll learn as you read this book:
Is going solar worth the investment?
How much should it cost?
How long does it take to get a system operational?
How much can it affect my electric bill?
Can I "really" save money by going solar?
How much of the project must I do myself?
Is solar installation disruptive?
Who completes and files the paperwork?
What are the benefits of going solar?

"You really did a fantastic job of presenting your experiences with the installation of your solar system. A lot of great information!"
— Newt Likely, Homeowner - Jacksonville, OR

POINT OF CONTACT
brenner @ brennerbooks . com
(858) 538-0093



TABLE OF CONTENTS
 Why I Wrote This Book

 Why We Chose to Invest in Renewable Energy

 Determining Baseline Energy Use

 Determining Energy Reduction Options

 Solar System Research

 Contacting Solar Energy Advisors

 Generating Specifications and Scope of Effort

 How I Found Local Vendors to Contact

 Getting Job Bids

 Meeting Solar Installation Vendors

 Unexpected Issues
    Roof Tile
    Roof Shading
    Solar Panel Installation
    Solar Panel Availability
    Power Breaker Panel
    Warranty Issues

 Vendor Selection Criteria

 Creating a Comparison Spreadsheet

 Receiving and Evaluating Bids

 Replying to Winner and Losers

 Pre-Job Visit by Selected Company

 Paperwork Required

 Installation Timeline & Milestones

 The System Installation Process

 Schedule of Payments

 Rebates and Tax Credit

 Calculating Investment Payback Period

 Maintenance and Operating Costs

 Net Metering and Paying for Electricity

 Summarizing the Experience

 Technology Promises and the Future

 Other Direct Benefits of Our System

 Useful Web Sites


Want a "Going Solar" presentation for your group?.

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 Going Solar:  A Homeowner's Experience
 ISBN 978-1-930199-55-2
 Photos, tables, charts, and index

 $24.95 USD (Printed Book)

 $9.95 USD (PDF e-book)

Also check out these information treaures:

Case Study: 5.0 kW Solar Power for an 1800 Sq. Ft. House

Case Study: 6.4 kW Solar Power for an 2400 Sq. Ft. House

Case Study: 7.4 kW Solar Power for an 3100 Sq. Ft. House

"Going Solar" PowerPoint Presentation Slides

QUESTIONS? CONTACT
brenner @ brennerbooks . com
(858) 538-0093
(800) 811-4337