Solar Success Story: Real Savings are Here Now
For Mar Vista community activist James Brennan, going solar isn’t just financially sound—it’s a chance to do something unique.
A small group of curious homeowners and city officials gathered Sunday to check out his brand-new solar panel installation.
What they found was something unexpected: a solar system integrated directly into the patio rooftop structure.
It’s sleek, low-profile, and provides light and shade at the same time.
To find out what home solar costs in your area, click here.
Solar contractor Mathew Rakocija of Martifer Solar gave a demonstration to the group.
“[This model] is taking off because of the architectural qualities,” he said. Building-integrated photovoltaics are known for their high aesthetic appeal.
He also explained that because the bifacial panels allow light to reflect back, they produce 10 to 15 percent more energy traditional solar panels.
The system cost $18,000, but after solar rebates and tax incentives, Brennan will pay just $8,000.
“You can go solar today and save 25 to 35, even 40 percent on your electric bill,” Brennan explained to MarVista Patch. “It’s not indefinite, it’s not unlimited, it’s here now.”
To date, 32 homes in the Mar Vista boast solar installations, and thousands more claim the same throughout Los Angeles.
For more solar success stories, check out our friend Vincent’s cash-saving system.
And if you’re interested in going solar yourself, click here to find a licensed contractor.
See MarVista Patch for full article and photos of the solar panels.
Photo via Flickr Creative Commons
Posted on July 12th in Going Solar by Brittany.
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