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SunWatts
Related Links: SunWatts Handbook | Tucson-area Solar Contractors
Care of our environment is important to all of us, and we want to preserve the earth for generations to come. Many people want ‘green’ energy alternatives to meet their electricity needs. That’s where SunWatts can help.
SunWatts is a renewable energy program designed to help Trico members install solar (photovoltaic, or PV), solar water heating and small wind energy equipment at their home or small business.
With the SunWatts rebate program, Trico’s residential and small commercial members can receive a rebate of $4 per installed watt for qualifying systems installed on their homes or small businesses, up to 50% the total cost of the unit.
Funding for the SunWatts program comes from the Renewable Energy Standard Tariff (REST), a surcharge placed on all members’ bills. This surcharge is mandated by the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), the body that governs most utilities. All utilities under the ACC’s jurisdiction must assess this surcharge.
To learn more about Trico's SunWatts program, please check out our SunWatts Handbook. It contains information on how to get your rebate.
Please note that Trico doesn't size renewable energy systems, nor do we recommend vendors. You should use a licensed renewable energy contractor can help you choose and install the right system for your needs.
Trico, City of Tucson Dedicate Solar Array
The City of Tucson, Tucson Water and Trico dedicated the third phase of their joint Thornydale Reclaimed Water photovoltaic project on Sept. 12.
U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup, Tucson Water CEO Dave Modeer and Trico Electric CEO/GM Mark Schwirtz were on-hand for the event.
The installation, located near Tangerine Road and Thornydale, uses some 70 kilowatts of photovoltaic panels to operate water pumps that feed nearby golf courses. That’s equivalent to supplying power to approximately 9 households and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 60 tons annually.
The 252 solar panels, inverters and related hardware are mounted on the reservoir’s 25,000 square foot concrete roof. The electricity generated by the panels is fed directly into the site, helping to supply electricity to the booster pumps. If the pumps aren’t running, the solar-generated electricity is fed into the power grid.
This project—the largest municipally owned solar array in Arizona—was made possible in part by Trico’s contribution, which came from its SunWatts renewable energy program. Trico also supplies ongoing maintenance and tracking at the site.
Trico’s members have installed 131 kilowatts of renewable energy equipment via the SunWatts program. SunWatts helps Trico members take part in solar, solar water heating and small wind energy technologies. It’s funded through the state-mandated Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff. Your electric rates are not used to fund SunWatts projects.
Did you know that you can receive Federal and state tax incentives for installing qualified solar equipment on your home?
You can! Visit these sites to learn more:
Arizona Solar Energy Incentive Programs
http://www.azsolarcenter.com/economics/incentives.html
Arizona and Federal Solar Energy Tax Breaks
http://www.azsolarcenter.com/economics/taxbreaks.html
Solar Industries Association
http://www.seia.org
