This article was written by Kristel Porter
MN Renewable Now has opened its waiting list for residents who are interested in receiving rooftop solar. Once you submit an application and all required documentations we will schedule a solar assessment to make measurements of your roof, home/business, and to check out your electric panel.
The upfront cost is $100 for the solar assessment and your full installation will cost you no more than $1500.
The way this is financed is through a combination of crowdfunding and angel investors who will cover the cost of your installation. MN Renewable Now and its partner, Solstar Finance, will lease your roof for six years until the installation is paid off through tax credits and solar rewards credits.
During this time, property owners enjoy a discount on their electric utility bill with Xcel Energy since they will be locked in at a lower rate per Kilowatt than they would have if they were not in the program.
After the sixth year, the panels will be deeded (transfer of ownership) to the property owner for no more than $1500 (possibly less depending on how much of the installations have been paid off-which depends on size of installation and how much electricity has been produced).
This program provides residents with the opportunity to have a $20-30K solar array installed onto their home, without having to apply for a bank loan to get solar installed and years of your life paying it off.
MN Renewable Now is a nonprofit organization located in North Minneapolis. Its staff and board (pictured) are Northside residents.
If you are interested in applying for this program, contact info@mnrenewablenow.org or 612-208-3896 for an application and information packet.