UPDATE: LANSING - One Meridian Township owner says he saves more than 600 dollars a year with his solar system. He also sells the electricity to Consumers Energy.

John Sarver installed his solar system around two and a half years ago. He said it was the perfect timing because he needed to replace the shingles on his roof and there was a deal on Solar Systems at the time.

Sarver's solar system produces 20% of his homes' electricity and acts as shingles as well as a solar system. "When I installed my solar system in my home two and a half years ago it cost me about $9,000. There was a 30% tax credit from the government so I was able to take off $2,700. Whats has happen since then is that the price of solar electric systems have come down by almost fifty percent," said Sarver, Director of Great Lakes Renewable Energy Tour.

" A lot of homes in Okemos and Haslett throughout Meridian Township were built in the 50's. In that time period they did not have installation in the walls. So, now if you get your walls insulated and put small injections into the cracks of your home you're going to save and get pay back within a few years." said Joe Ross, Great Lakes Renewable Energy Participant.

John Sarver says that solar electric systems are a big commitment but they pay off in the long run. Both John and Joe recommend starting at home first to begin being more energy efficient.

One of the easiest thing you can do is buy home sealer and seal the cracks and windows in your home. Joe also recommends installing LCD lights,light dimmers, and larger windows to save more energy. Joe Ross and his wife commuted 15 minutes a day to their office and decided that they would build a home office to save money and energy. John Sarver recommended installing energy efficient furnaces and air-conditioning as well.


ORIGINAL STORY: LANSING - Solar systems are an new innovative way to produce your home's electricity.