Solar water-heating systems offer a lot of ways to save the planet - and also money. They’re ideal for ordinary household water needs, as well as pools and spas. Last week the picture got even better for California homes and businesses, as Governor Schwarzenegger signed legislation providing rebates of $250 million over the next 10 years for solar water heaters.

Details are still being ironed out as to exactly how the rebates will work and what different programs local utilities may set up; it’s conceivable that there will be significant variation from one utility district to another.

If you’re using the winter months to plan your next home improvement project, keep solar water heaters on your short list — by summer, the bureaucratic dust may have settled and you may get the best deal by moving quickly. When you’re interviewing potential solar contractors, make sure to ask about available programs in your area — and how each building pro plans to help you get the most from them.

Posted on October 18th in Solar News by Marye.