Several states in the USA have implemented or are considering legislation to ensure people building new homes are given the option of making the house solar ready, installing grid connect solar power or a solar hot water system during construction.
In New Jersey builders are required to offer solar panels to home buyers in housing estate developments of over 25 houses and to raise awarenes during construction the benefits of renewable energy systems.
From 2010 California builders will need to offer solar panels on homes in developments of more than 50 houses.
Beginning January 1 next year, all new single-family homes in Hawaii must include solar hot water systems.
New Mexico home builders are required to offer solar ready wiring in all new homes.
According to USA Today, legislation is also being considered in Colorado to require builders to provide a range of renewable energy options, from solar ready wiring, to full installation of a grid connect solar system.
The USA isn’t the only country that requires a solar aspect to new construction. In India, some cities have made it mandatory for new buildings to install solar water heating systems before they can be occupied.
The advantages of recruiting builders as solar proponents will help raise awareness among home buyers of renewable energy alternative and stimulating uptake, which will not only help home buyers cut energy costs, but decrease domestic greenhouse gas emissions and generate more green collar jobs.
If solar power is rolled into the cost of a new house, it can often be added into a mortgage, meaning a minimal up front payment. Combined with government rebates and feed in tariff incentives; the mortgage interest on the solar component can be minimised or totally offset.
