Uni-Solar Shingles Shipping...

The overwhelming response to a Uni-Solar shingles installation on HGTV's "I Want That" wiped out the existing inventory. The popular segment appeared several times on the program in July and again in October. Uni-Solar received over 400 emails and phone calls from around the country about these lightweight, visually-pleasing solar shingles. Besides selling out inventory, Uni-Solar had prior commitments to ship framed modules here and in Germany which temporarily precluded solar shingle production. However limited production will begin again in early 2006 with plans to ship in late February.

Those still interested in incorporating Uni-Solar shingles in either re-roofing or new construction should consider ordering soon. PLEASE read or re-read the July 16 posting "Powered by Uni-Solar Shingles" in this blog to be sure this solar application is right for you. Uni-Solar is the world leader in thin-film photovoltaics which also include framed modules and PV laminates for metal seam roofs. As for sizing a system: There is a two-part series on this subject in August in this blog.
Now it's time to separate the dreamers from buyers. Solar power is not mainstream--yet--and solar shingles are definitely not. Uni-Solar shingle kits cost 15-20% more than its module or PV laminate kits. A 1.8Kw solar shingles kit is $13,734 plus shipping; 2.5Kw kit, $19,532 plus shipping. Michigan and California residents add sales tax. A 50% down payment is required for systems up to 5Kw (i.e. two 2.5 kits); 5Kw and above, 25% down. Balance is due just prior to shipping. Kits come complete with all necessary components and manual for a typical grid-tied home installation and 20-year warranty on the solar cells. Kits can be homeowner installed (as it was on the HGTV program) or contracted to a local installer. Check the link "Solar Incentives by State" for solar subsidies in your area.

Serious parties should contact this blogger at dbrands@cox.net or 619/294-9294 after which a formal order/invoice will be generated.

California takes another big step

Taking another big step to a million solar roofs in ten years, the California Public Utilities Commission issued a proposed decision to replenish 2006 funding for commercial solar installations. No rebates for systems above 30Kw have been available since previous funding was oversubscribed earlier this year. The proposed decision would inject $300 million into the Self Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offering $2.80 per AC watt rebates on 30Kw-plus systems.

The PUC also set a December 15 deadline to finalize a larger solar proposal that would include residential systems as well. As such the SGIP and residential Emerging Renewables program could merge next year. A 20-day public comment period is now in effect until December 15, the date of the final 2005 PUC business meeting. (Details at http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=39390