Some homeowners love their solar panels

Regarding "Conservation of energy would help" [Letters, March 30], I had 25 solar panels installed on my home. The orientation to the sun was not the best, but close to it. There are no trees to interfere. My electric bill went from about $180 to $200 a month to $5 to $6.

Yes, in some months with heavy cloud cover, I do have bills of about $30. But at the end of the year, I receive a check from the Long Island Power Authority, which makes up for those months.

My installer is now putting in another 20 solar panels. I am going to install air conditioning and an electric dryer.

My current system has been in operation for 21/2 years, and I would encourage everyone to install solar panels.

Andrew Squitieri

East Marion
 

I am not certified to install solar panels, nor do I own an energy conservation company. I do own a home that has had no electric utility bills for two years. I had a solar photovoltaic energy-producing system installed on my garage roof.

The net cost to me is about $11,000, giving me a payback time of about eight years. The system will be paid for, and I will continue to have no electric bill.

All that is a far cry from the recent letter writer who installed a $30,000 system and is "really disappointed."

I researched this project through various articles and online, and interviewed four solar voltaic companies. Obviously, it works, and I urge every residential homeowner to investigate the pros and cons of using the sun to power his or her home.

Joel Reitman

Peconic
 

It is a common misperception your letter writer expressed that "it is difficult to retrofit most existing homes." Any homeowner in New York can inexpensively and effectively save on energy costs while making a home more comfortable.

An accredited home performance contractor uses a whole-house approach to assess a home's energy use. A review looks for drafty rooms, high utility bills, inefficient old appliances, inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, and poor ventilation and humidity control.

A homeowner should start with a comprehensive assessment or energy audit. Free or reduced-cost home assessments are available from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the Long Island Power Authority (for those with electric heat) or National Grid (gas heat). Recommendations might include insulation and air sealing, energy-efficient lighting and heating upgrades. The homeowner works with the contractor to decide which measures to take.

Low-cost financing is also available from NYSERDA, and rebates and other financial incentives may be available. Further information is available at 877-NY-SMART or getenergysmart.org/home-performance.

Rosemary Olsen

Centereach

Editor's note: The writer is the director of green initiatives for the Community Development Corp. of Long Island, a nonprofit organization that administers government programs.