http://www.cfnews13.com/FamilyAndHome/YourHome/2009/1/18/mrs._orlando_switches_to_solar_power.html

Mrs. Orlando Switches To Solar Power

Sunday, January 18, 2009 1:17:46 PM

Tools: E-mail | Print | Feedback |

Allison Walker, Your Home

Tricia Stein, 2008's "Mrs. Orlando," has done something to her home she said none of her neighbors has.

"We're the first home in Baldwin Park, which we're very proud of, to start the solar electric system," Stein said.

Stein said she thinks she and her husband will soon save about 40 percent on their power bill.

"Our electric bill runs about $350 to $400 a month, so if we can reduce that to $150 to 200, we'll be happy," Stein said.

In addition to a solar electric system -- or photovoltaic system -- Stein said she is also getting a solar water heater.

The new year brings a new residential Solar Federal Tax Credit.

The old one was capped at $2,000, but with the new one, you can get up to 30 percent off the installation of a new system.

"It would pay for itself," Stein said. "Rather than normally being 15 years to pay itself in operating cost, it would be 5 to 7 years. It's definitely worth it."

According to the Appraisal Institute, for every $1,000 in energy savings directly related to the solar installments you made, your home's value goes up by $20,000.

Stein said she hopes to stay in her dream home for years, and looks forward to seeing "green."

If you have not have claimed all of the $500 federal income tax credit for energy-efficiency home improvements that was in effect in 2006 and 2007, the Alliance to Save Energy said you can utilize the unused portion in 2009.