Resources

While the SolarMe calculator attempts to streamline solar system recommendations for the majority of small to medium-sized businesses, we remind users that it is an educational tool.  To get the most out of the calculator, additional research is imperative.

To help you delve deeper into the world of solar energy, we have compiled the following resources.  The links cover a range of topics and will offer details about some of the incentives and recommendations provided by the calculator.

We recommend visiting the following sources for more information about renewable energy technologies, education, and financing.

Solar Basics

• www.renewmaine.org – Visit the Maine Energy Investment Corporation for more information about solar technologies and other renewable resources.  Informational resources include solar links, .pdf handouts, a solar glossary, and a list of Maine solar installers and retailers.

Solar Financing

• www.maine.gov/msep – Detailed information about the Maine State Solar rebates from the Maine State Energy Program.
• www.dsire.org -- Information about national and regional incentives for renewable energy and efficiency.
• www.seia.org - Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) guide to tax benefits.
• www.IRS.gov - Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 3468.

Other Calculators

• www.findsolar.com – From American Solar Energy Society, calculator to price systems and directory to locate installers close to you.
• www.clean-power.com/sharp -- Sharp Solar’s calculator for solar electric systems.
• www.apricus-solar.com – Apricus’ calculator for their evacuated tube collectors, available from several sources in Maine.
• www.apricus-solar.com – Very detailed analysis tool for the design of solar electric and hot water systems, from NASA and Natural Resources Canada.