Rising Rockland Energy Rates Open the Door For Solar

Rockland energy rates are on the rise. On Tuseday, May 29, county legislators approved a 4% energy tax increase with a 14-3 vote. As a New York solar panel installation expert with an office in New City, Real Goods Solar encourages Rockland residents to view this rate increase as a chance to take control of their homes’ utility bills.

How can you fight rising Rockland energy rates?

1. Get a free quote to enroll in a solar utility.
   With the new solar power financing options available in NY, you can go solar for very little down and reduce your electricity bills from day one. (Take THAT, Rockland Legislators and O&R!) Ask New City architect Michael Shilale, Chair of RBA’s Green Council and Real Goods Solar customer. Shilale, a LEED-accredited architect in Rockland County, explained that the solar pv system on his New City office has offset about 35% of his office’s electric bill and has already reduced CO2 emissions by over 11,000 pounds. The office also utilizes a rainwater harvesting system and high-performance lighting. This shining example of renewable energy and energy efficiency means that rising Rockland energy rates have a minimal effect on Michael’s electricity costs.

 

2. Get an energy audit on your home.
   Check out NYSERDA for reputable companies who will perform this service (some even do it for free!) Reduce your bills by addressing your home’s energy flaws: Is your home properly insulated? Do you have an energy efficient boiler, washer/dryer and refrigerator? When I had my free home energy audit I was shocked to hear that with my 160+ year old Nyack home, it made better financial sense to rent a storage pod than to continue to store our stuff (off season clothes, camping gear, dress up clothes, old college textbooks, etc.) in our attic. The audit expert told us that by installing 18″ of spray foam insulation and silver mylar wrap on the rafters (to reduce heat gain), we would reduce our energy bills by more than it would cost to stash our attic loot elsewhere!

Tagged energy efficiency, LEED, Michael Shilale, new york, NY, NYSERDA, utility rates