Energy efficiency means saving those hard to earn green dollars to most people. The problem is that what has been pushed over the last decade is how great solar is in this realm. However, SOLAR IS NOT THE SILVER BULLET!
Why put solar on a house that is leaking air, causing allergies, has an improperly working HVAC
system, is improperly vented or perhaps even worse is leaking carbon monoxide into the home?
The majority of homes today in this country have some type of problem that not only causes energy inefficiency but also causes allergies, asthma and is just not 100% comfortable to live in. Sadly, even some brand new homes cannot pass our Home Energy Audit.
This is now recognized by the government and by the end of September, 2010, there will be many incentives for repairing the multiple problems in your home. P.G. & E will be offering, early this fall, up to a $3500 rebate for energy renovation of homes.
Here is the order of things to get the most efficient and comfortable home for the least money:
- Home Energy Audit
- Home Energy Retrofit
- Solar Thermal (Hot Water)
- Solar PV (Electric)