Solar Water Heating systems can be a cost-effective way to generate hot water for your home or business. They can be used in any climate, and the fuel they use-sunshine-is free. Solar water heating can help protect consumers against future gas and electricity shortages and price increases. They help preserve the environment by reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. The California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) is administering the City of Palo Alto Utilities' (CPAU) Solar Water Heating Program (SWHP).
WHAT IS SOLAR WATER HEATING?
Solar water heating (SWH) systems use the energy of the sun to heat water. This is different from photovoltaic or electric solar systems that use the energy of the sun to create electricity. A solar water heating system includes a storage tank and solar collector(s). Solar collectors are typically placed on your roof top so that the sun can heat the water before sending it to your water heater or a storage tank. Most solar water heaters require a well-insulated storage tank. Solar storage tanks have an additional outlet and inlet connected to and from the collector. In two-tank systems, the solar water heater preheats water before it enters the conventional water heater. In one-tank systems, the back-up heater is combined with the solar storage in one tank.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR INCENTIVES FROM CITY OF PALO ALTO FOR SHW SYSTEMS?
The incentive program is available to residential, commercial, and industrial customers of the City of Palo Alto Utilities. To be eligible, applicants must purchase a new qualifying SWH system and be able to provide a copy of a CPAU bill. Solar pool heating systems are not eligible for this program.
Customers may choose from the list of Eligible Contractors, who have been pre-qualified to participate in the program, or install the systems themselves. Click here for a list of eligible contractors.
Participating SWH contractors and self-installers must attend a one day training class to qualify. Contractor training classes will be held approximately twice a year or on an as-needed basis.
HOW MUCH IS THE INCENTIVE?
The incentives will go to qualified, licensed contractors to promote the installation of clean, renewable solar water heating systems.
- For residential systems, the incentive is up to $1,500 per dwelling unit.
- For larger systems, the incentive is a function of multiplying three variables:
- $20 for closed-loop systems
- Solar Orientation Factor
- Production rating of the specific SWH collector
- Maximum incentive is $75,000.
In addition to the incentive provided by CPAU, you are eligible for a federal income tax credit. An individual can take a 30% credit for a qualifying solar water heating system. Click here for more information on the Federal Solar Tax Credit.
HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION FORMS
The SWHP Handbook offers in-depth information about the program, design and technical aspects of a SWH system. If you need help completing the application forms, your contractor can help or you can call us for additional assistance at 866- 611-CPAU. Following are guidelines and informational materials to assist you in PDF format:
HANDBOOK
Download the SWH Program Handbook
Download the SWH Technical Handbook
Download the SWH Installation Checklist
INSTRUCTIONS
SWHP Step-by-Step Application Instruction
APPLICATION
SWHP Contractor Participation Application
SWHP Application
SWHP Project Cost Affidavit
SWHP Project Cost Summary
SWHP Incentive Claim Form
SOLAR WATER HEATING RESOURCES
For more information on solar water heating technologies and applications see the following resources.
CONTACT US
If you need additional help, information or resources, contact us by:
TOLL-FREE SWHP HOTLINE: 866-611-CPAU / 866-611-2728
E-Mail: swhp@cityofpaloalto.org
APPLICATION MAILING ADDRESS:
California Center for Sustainable Energy
CPAU SWH Program
8690 Balboa Avenue, Suite 100
San Diego, CA 92123
CPAU ADDRESS:
City of Palo Alto, Utility Marketing Services
250 Hamilton Avenue, 3rd Floor
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Tel: 650-329-2241
