| Alternative Energy is all the rage after the State of | | | | rebates are designed to move utility customers to |
| the Union speech given by President Bush. If you live | | | | non-utility energy sources.Solar panels systems are |
| in Illinois, you should know there are already rebate | | | | typically used to produce electricity. If you are going |
| programs available.How To Get A Rebate for Using | | | | with a solar panel system, the requirements are very |
| Alternative Energy in IllinoisRebates for using | | | | simple. The system must be approved by |
| alternative energy platforms are handled under the | | | | Underwriters Laboratories, a fairly common |
| Renewable Energy Resources Program. The program | | | | certification throughout the solar industry. The |
| is designed to motivate Illinois residents to use | | | | system must also have a rated capacity of 800 |
| alternative energy by providing financial incentives in | | | | watts for production.Solar-thermal systems are used |
| the form of rebates for those that modify their | | | | to produce heat, often in the form of hot water. If |
| energy use.The Renewable Energy Resources | | | | you are going with a solar thermal system for your |
| Program has been around for awhile, but new | | | | alternative energy needs, it must be approved by |
| regulations went into effect on January 1, 2006. | | | | the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation or |
| Under the regulations, rebates for going solar may | | | | similar certification. The system must produce at least |
| now be as high as $10,000 for eligible solar thermal | | | | 50,000 BTUs a day or have at least 60 square feet |
| systems and up to 30 percent of the cost of solar | | | | of collectors. Put in simple terms, you need to have |
| panel systems. These new rebates, however, have a | | | | roughly a system measuring 8 x 8 feet. If you are |
| finite life span. You must apply for either or both of | | | | using the system for a pool, you only get the rebate |
| them by April 30, 2006.To get in on these healthy | | | | if the pool is available to the public for regular |
| rebates, there are a few requirements you must | | | | use.While President Bush surprised many by |
| meet. First of all, you must be eligible. Eligible parties | | | | highlighting alternative energy platforms in his recent |
| included individuals, businesses, schools, non-profits, | | | | speech. Alas, Illinois was already heading down that |
| and institutions of higher learning. You must also be a | | | | road.Rick Chapo is with SolarCompanies.com, a |
| customer of utility company, meaning you can not be | | | | directory of solar energy companies. Visit us to read |
| an off-grid energy residence or structure since the | | | | more articles on solar power and renewable energy. |