The discussion concerning modifications to the solar ordinance continued at the Sustainability Commission's January meeting.
The discussion concerning modifications to the solar ordinance continued at the Sustainability Commission's January meeting.
The City of Elgin Sustainability Commission continued the discussion on modifying the city's solar ordinance at its Jan. 12 meeting.
Federal tax rebates will continue for another four years and then slowly phase out. The 30 percent rebate is in effect until 2020. In 2021, it will be 20 percent, before dropping to 10 percent in 2022. The rebates apply to both residential and commercial solar installations.
The commission discussed the first residential permit issued, as well as the costs. The resident can sell power back to ComEd or install a converter and storage unit. The resident installed 15 panels, costing $17,800. Her tax incentive was $5,336; her solar equipment incentive was $5,000.
The weight of solar units, permit process and publicizing solar energy with flyers and brochures was also discussed. Grant opportunities with the Solar Foundation were mentioned. It was also suggested that experts might have ideas on ways to interest schools and the Habitat for Humanity in solar energy.
The commissioners also discussed the Partners for Places grant proposal. Installing solar panels on the Gail Borden Public Library Rakow Branch building was suggested. The steps needed to move forward include contacting the Grand Victoria Foundation, inviting Rachel to the next meeting, contacting the library board and then conducting a feasibility study.
After announcing the Backyard Chickens Pilot Program presentation -- scheduled for the Jan. 13 Committee of the Whole meeting -- and discussing the next Sustainability Honor Roll presentation in April, the meeting concluded.
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