People have many reasons for switching to solar power, from rising electricity consumption and energy costs to growing concerns about the environment. Regardless of why you want to install a solar system on your residential or commercial property, there are numerous factors to consider before making a final decision. To ensure you’re as knowledgeable as possible when going through the process, consider the following tips and information:

Make sure you understand your utility company’s rates. In many areas, there are different “tiers” of usage and each has a different formula to calculate cost. Higher energy usage tiers have higher rates. In these schemes, you pay more as your energy demands increase. In the Bay Area, Read more

Do you want to handle your personal finances like a professional accountant? According to Charles Sterck, Managing Partner of Sterck Kulik O’Neill Accounting Group, Inc., the most critical step in planning for your retirement is simply starting to save.

Get started by participating in your company’s 401k program and put money into your IRA today. Don’t wait until next April 15th when you’re looking for a tax deduction to open an IRA. Put money into this year’s IRA as soon as you can so that your money will grow tax free starting right now. This savings is not a rainy-day fund to be used for emergencies or to pay off credit cards. Treat the money in your retirement accounts as belonging to someone else: tell yourself that the account is owned by the future and not by you. Read more

Have you been thinking about installing new windows? John Gorman, owner of Save Energy Company, a Diamond Certified company, says if you buy double pane energy-saving windows now, you will qualify for a maximum of $1500 in federal tax credits. You’re allowed to deduct 30% of the cost of the materials through 2009 and 2010. For more detailed information on the tax credits, go to www.energystar.gov. Double pane windows have improved a lot over the years, according to Mr. Gorman. Besides reducing your energy bills, they eliminate mold and mildew. People find that the new windows reduce street noise, which is a huge benefit. New tinting blocks harmful UV rays, so they protect your rugs and furniture from sun damage. Read more

The savings with solar can be substantial for homeowners with electric bills topping $100 a month.  Randy Zechman, the CEO of Clean Solar, a Diamond Certified company, suggests the first step is to review your PG&E bills for the past 12 months to determine how many kilowatts you’re using and what you’re paying. This helps solar contractors, who have to be licensed, know which size system to install in your home.

Rather than depend only on a solar contractor’s representations as to the amount of energy a system will produce, ask for what’s called a solar production guarantee. Get this in writing along with the warranty. Mr. Zechman says you can still get federal tax credits and rebates from the state for installing a solar system. Read more