Applications for the Made in Minnesota Solar Thermal Rebate Program reopened on Monday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce has announced. The solar thermal program accepted applications this year from January 1-February 28, but the program was not fully subscribed. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until 2014 funds are fully reserved.
Rebate Program details: The rebate program, which is part of the 10-year, $150 million Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program that began this year, is for customers of electric investor-owned utilities (Xcel Energy, Alliant Energy, Minnesota Power, and Otter Tail Power). Rebates are available to commercial and residential property owners who install solar thermal systems using collectors certified as Made in Minnesota. The rebate is equal to 25 percent of the system installed cost up to a maximum of $2,500 for residential, $5,000 for multifamily, and $25,000 for commercial systems. More information on the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program is available online.
How it works: Solar thermal energy is a technology for harnessing solar energy for thermal energy (heat). For the purposes of the Made in Minnesota program, a “Solar Thermal System” means a flat plate or evacuated tube with a fixed orientation that collects the sun’s radiant energy and transfers it to a storage medium for distribution as energy to heat or cool air or water. A solar thermal system is “Made in Minnesota” if components of the system are manufactured in Minnesota and the solar thermal system is certified by the solar rating and certification corporation.
Who can apply: The solar thermal systems may be installed in residential and commercial facilities for, among other purposes, water heating, space heating, and pool heating purposes. Rebates are also available to commercial, multifamily and residential property owners who install solar thermal systems using collectors certified as Made in Minnesota. The rebate is equal to 25 percent of the system installed cost up to a maximum of $2,500 for residential, $5,000 for multi-family, and $25,000 for commercial systems. To receive a Made in Minnesota rebate, applicants must use a factory authorized solar thermal installer.
Assistance – The Minnesota Department of Commerce has set up Guidance for Completing the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Application. Here is a reference guide for applicants.
Recent story: Minnesota Public Radio featured solar thermal in a story this week by Elizabeth Dunbar, highlighting the benefits of the technology in the face of high propane costs and recent shortages.
