A program that will make it easier, faster and cheaper for Alexandria residents and business owners to install solar power has restarted.
For the fifth year, Solarize Alexandria will give residents the chance to learn about solar power, receive a free site assessment of their property and take advantage of discounted prices on equipment and installation.
For the first time this year, the program also includes discounts on electric vehicle charging equipment.
The program runs this year from April 16 to June 14.
Cost has been a concern among residents who are considering using solar power, according to research released Thursday from Virginia Energy Sense (VES) and the State Corporation Commission. The study revealed that 77% of Northern Virginia residents are interested in learning more about the steps to take to reduce electricity use, but 50% agree the initial costs of making their home more energy efficient are too expensive.
Learn more about how solar power works from VES here.
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The following is the complete release from the City of Alexandria on the program:
Solarize Alexandria, the program designed to make it easier and more affordable for residents and business owners to install solar power systems on Alexandria properties, will hold its fifth annual campaign from April 16 through June 14.
This program is an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of converting to solar power. Property owners who register for the Solarize Alexandria program receive a free, no-obligation solar site assessment for their homes or businesses. During the assessment, a qualified solar energy professional will evaluate whether the property is a good candidate for solar power. Eligible property owners can take advantage of discounted prices that leverage regional bulk pricing and financing on solar panel purchase and installation. The City also offers residential property owners a property tax exemption for the value of certified solar energy equipment.
New This Year: Electric Vehicle Chargers
A new addition to this year’s program is the option to purchase a level 2 electric vehicle charging station. This 240-volt device provides an electric vehicle charge equivalent to up to 20 miles of range per charging hour. Charging stations are available at bulk pricing but are not eligible for the City’s Solar Energy Equipment Tax Exemption.
The City is hosting information sessions on the following dates:
- Tuesday, April 30, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at City Hall (301 King St., Chet & Sabra Avery Room 2000)
- Monday, May 13, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center (2701 Commonwealth Ave.)
- Wednesday, June 5, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at City Hall (301 King St., Sister Cities Conference Room 1101)
To learn more about how solar power works, how to afford a solar power system, and the incentives and programs available to solar customers in Virginia, refer to the solar energy information on the City’s Energy & Climate Change website. Get a jump start on finding out whether your property is an ideal fit for solar by using the Northern Virginia Solar Map.
Alexandria joins the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) and the nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) to offer Solarize programs with other Northern Virginia localities, including the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, Vienna, and Fairfax County.
Solarize Alexandria is part of Eco-City Alexandria, the City’s strategic effort to be a sustainable community.
