Economic Incentives

• State Rebates
  

  The state of California is offering incredible cash rebates that maximize the investment potential of a solar system while minimizing your initial investment. These rebates are administered by your local Utility and are available for a limited time. The rebates also decrease in value as more businesses and residents participate in the program, so don't wait too long to get started.

  Here's the rebate values for some Bay Area Utilities,

      PG&E - $.65/Watt rebate on residential solar systems.

      Silicon Valley Power - $3.00/Watt on commercial solar systems. Rebate will be dropping to $2.25 soon!

      City of Palo Alto - $1.60 - $2.60/Watt (depending on billing structure).

• Federal Tax Credit
  

  The current Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit authorizes system owners to receive a tax credit for 30% of the system investment.

• 5 Year Accelerated Depreciation and 50% Bonus Depreciation (2009 only)
  

  Under the federal Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS), businesses may recover investments in certain property through depreciation deductions. For solar installations placed in service after 1986, the current MACRS property class is 5 years. For 2009 only, businesses can apply 50% of their allotted depreciation in the first year! In addition, the remaining 50% of depreciable value is depreciated using the 5-Year accelerated schedule. That means you get to depreciate 60% in the first year!

• Increase Value of the Property
  

  A quality solar installation can significantly increase the value of your property, but unlike other home improvements the solar installation is exempt from property tax increases.

• Reduce or Eliminate Your Electric Bill
  

  Electrical rates in California have increased, on average, 6.4% each year for the last 30 years, and in the last 7 years, this average has climbed to 6.9%. Installing solar panels allows you to lock in your energy rate at today's rates. As the utility energy prices soar, the savings from your system become more valuable.

• Fast Return on Investment
  

  Business owners going solar using Vista Solar's financing solutions often see a cash-flow positive investment from day one of the solar installation. Cash purchase customers going solar often see a first year return on investment of 50% with an average yearly rate of return between 11 and 14%.

• Little or No Maintenance
  

  Vista Solar systems are designed to provide a reliable source of clean renewable energy while requiring little or no maintenance. All mechanical and electrical components used in the construction of our systems are chosen to ensure a long effective lifetime. Business owners using Vista Solar's financing plans often have included worry-free maintenance plans included.