I wanted to share with you an exciting program that is being offered by our local power company. If you are anything like me, my power bill last year after the snow storms was a bit of a shocker. How would you feel if you did not get a bill at all but recieved a credit instead?

Senior Power Supply Analyst Matt Samuelson reported that there are seven customers participating in PUD 3's "net metering" program. Six of the customers are producing electricity with solar panels while another is experimenting with a small wind turbine. If these customers produce more electricity from their renewable energy systems than they consume in any given month, they are provided a credit toward future consumption.

In addition, participants may benefit from the Washington State Renewable Energy System Cost Recovery Incentive Program, which is administered by the state Department of Revenue. Four of the seven net metering customers participated in the program for F.Y. 08-09, generating approximately 9,000 kWh of electricity, for a combined compensation of $1,350.

While the payments are made by PUD 3, the utility is credited for its outlay by a corresponding decrease in PUD excise taxes. More details on the program may be found at the link below.

http://dor.wa.gov/Docs/Pubs/SpecialNotices/2009/sn_09_RenewableEnergy.pdf

As a Realtor I would like to know how important solar and wind energy is to you. Would you consider a home with solar power over one that does not have the option? Please feel free to share your comments. Your opinion may make a big difference in the housing you see offered in your neighborhood in the future.