More solar panels popping up on Anna Maria Island

Monday, March 9, 2009

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More solar panels are dotting the roofs of homes on Anna Maria Island.

MANATEE COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- An increasing number of Manatee County residents are turning to solar energy.

And the community of Anna Maria Island appears to be leading the state with its energy independent lifestyle.

According to Solar Direct, a company in Bradenton, more solar panels are being installed on Anna Maria Island per square mile than anywhere else in the state.

Rex James, with Sloar Direct, said the large glass and metal panels conserve fossil fuels and other natural resources and at the same time save homeowners money.

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A 5-kilowatt system provides 40-percent of power for a house and will save about $100 or more on an energy bill a month, according to James.

Anna Maria Island resident Tom Stockebrand installed solar panels at his home about a year ago. He said he is already seeing a large savings on his electric bill.

"I get about $1,000 a year worth of electricity and I put in about $10,000,' Stockebrand. "So my return is about 10-percent and that's pretty good these days."

The initial coast for solar systems ranges from $40,000 to $45,000.

But through federal tax grants and the Florida Rebate program, homeowners can buy a solar panel system for $10,000 to $15,000.

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