Grow Solar Jefferson + Waukesha Counties Virtual Resource Packet

We’ve taken all the resources we go through during our Solar Power Hour and compiled them here so you can take a deeper look into all aspects of solar.

Solar 101 Resources

Presentation Slides are available here. The on-demand video version of the presentation can be found below.

Energy Efficiency Resources

Making energy efficiency and conservation choices in your home, including replacing old appliances with new energy efficient models, switching out old incandescent bulbs with LED lights, utilizing power strips to power off electronics when not in use and weather-proofing can save significant amounts of energy. Implementing good energy efficiency measures is an up-front economic investment that can reduce your energy needs, reducing the size and cost of the solar PV system needed for your home or business. Focus on Energy offers a variety of energy-saving packs. Visit their website and see which one can be useful in your home.

Solar Incentives & Financing

The federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit is open to all homeowners regardless of the state in which they live. The tax credit covers up to 26% of qualified expenditures. This includes labor, installation and interconnection wiring. You must own the house but it doesn’t have to be your principal residence. Click here for more information (and to download the necessary tax form) to learn about the Federal Tax Credit.
The Focus on Energy rebate is available to Wisconsin residents. Residential customers can receive up to $500 to offset the interconnect and permitting costs of installing a solar electric system. Business customers can save up to $50,000, and agricultural producers can earn up to $10,000 more for their solar electric system. Visit their website to track the current funds available.
The Clean Energy Credit Union, which was founded in 2017 for the purpose of helping folks finance renewable energy and electric vehicle purchases. It is a member-based credit union which MREA is a member of. If you choose to go geothermal through this program you will have access to financing through the Clean Energy Credit Union. Learn about their rates and terms here.
There is the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program that enables commercial property owners to obtain low-cost, long-term loans for energy efficient, renewable energy, and water conservation improvements. Find out if you are eligible here: https://www.pacewi.org/property-owners-eligible-projects.html
If you are in the market to refinance your mortgage, consider working with Green Homeowners United, based in West Allis. They guide homeowners through the process and can help people join the solar group buy who otherwise may not be able to pay for solar out-of pocket. Reach out to Kevin Kane for more information at or 414-604-6450.

Pre-Recorded Solar Power Hour

Our Virtual Power Hour presentation will help you understand more about solar technology, the Grow Solar Jefferson + Waukesha Counties program, and the costs and benefits of going solar. At the end of the virtual presentation you can sign up for a free site assessment. Deadline to participate has now been extended to October 31, 2021.

Part 1: Introduction

Peter introduces Grow Solar Jefferson + Waukesha Counties and the program organizers.

Part 2: How Does Solar Work?

Peter elaborates on the basics of how solar works.

Part 3: Options and Considerations

Peter describes the options and considerations included in a solar buying decision.

Part 4: Costs and Incentives

Peter discusses some of the typical costs of solar as well as the available incentives.

Part 5: Next Steps

Peter discusses the next steps in going solar through the program. Sign up for a site assessment at the link below the video.