Biodiesel fuel
  Energy Guide
  Glossary
  Green Brochures
  Green Pricing Program
  Hybrids
  Links
  Practices
  Our Environment
  Solar Programs
  Water Guide
  Waterwise Landscape

  Contact OUC Green
  Green Guide Home 
 
 
The Economics

Solar water heaters, sometimes called solar domestic hot-water systems, can be a good investment for your home or business. Solar water heaters are cost effective for many applications over the life of the system. Although solar water heaters cost more initially than conventional water heaters, the fuel they use – sunshine – is free. Solar heating technologies can be used in any climate.

How much will it cost? That answer depends upon the type system you utilize and your geographic location. The cost-effectiveness of applications depends on specific circumstances, such as the type and cost of your usual source of energy. Most residential solar thermal systems cost between $2,000 and $4,500.

A solar water heater should save between 50 percent and 85 percent of the hot water portion of the monthly utility bill. Although this is more than the cost of a conventional gas or electric system, today’s solar water heating systems are cost competitive when you consider your total energy costs over the entire life of the system. Businesses should base solar decisions on life-cycle costs analyses, which include the cost of operating and maintaining a system throughout the anticipated service life. This is important since solar technologies are typically expensive to purchase, they require minimal maintenance, no fuel, and produce no emissions, which makes them a good long-term investment.

The use of a solar energy system will benefit you by:

  • Lowering your electric bills
  • Insulating you from rising costs
  • Providing you with tax credits and cash rebates
  • Reducing foreign fuel consumption
  • Investing in renewable energy
Low interest loans

For residential customers, OUC has partnered with Orlando Federal Credit Union to provide low interest loan options for solar installations and help keep the net monthly cost low for our customers. Additionally, there are Florida state rebates and federal tax credits available to help minimize the cost.

Solar Programs | The Technology The Economics The Performance  |  Learn More