The PA Sunshine Solar Program, passed by the General Assembly in 2008 as part of a sweeping energy legislation package, will provide $100 million in rebates to eligible consumers who purchase and install solar energy technology.

Fontana said consumers may be reimbursed up to 35 percent of the purchase and installation costs of solar electric and solar hot water projects. The combined assistance of these rebates and federal tax credits could reduce system costs for consumers by 45 percent.

Several projects are eligible for the rebate, including installation of solar panels that help provide electricity for pumping water, powering communications equipment, lighting homes or businesses, and running appliances. In addition, installing a solar water heating system can produce hot water necessary for washing, cooking, cleaning, and other domestic and commercial uses of hot water.

Homeowners who are residents of the Pennsylvania are eligible to receive the rebate. Vacation homes and investment properties are not qualified to receive funding. Small business applicants must be a for-profit business with no more than 100 full-time employees, located within Pennsylvania.

Fontana noted that consumers do not submit the application themselves. Consumers must choose an installer from a list of installers approved by the Department of Environmental Protection. Installers will then complete and submit the application, available on-line at http://www.padep.powerclerk.com/.

Applications are also available for solar photovoltaic and solar thermal installation contractors wishing to register to participate in the new Pennsylvania Sunshine Program.