(Monday, October 6, 2008 - Martinez, CA) — The Rahus Institute today released a guide for organizations interested in purchasing solar electricity without buying the solar equipment. The “Customer’s Guide to Solar Power Purchase Agreements” provides an explanation of this rapidly growing business model where a “solar services provider” installs the solar equipment at a university, business, or other organization, and the organization pays only for the solar electricity.
Using a reader-friendly style and colorful graphics, the straightforward, easy-to-understand digital guide will help organizations throughout the United States understand whether a solar power purchase agreement is right for them, and if so, how to proceed.

“We want to help schools, government agencies, and other organizations interested in using solar. This guide explains the basics about the solar power purchase model and compares it against the other financing options,” said Tor Allen, Executive Director of the Rahus Institute. “We clarify exactly what a solar power purchase agreement is, how to decide if it makes sense for your organization, and how to work with experienced solar services providers.”

The free guide is sponsored by several solar power services companies and municipal utilities, including: MMA Renewable Energy Ventures, Solar Power Partners, SunEdison, City of Palo Alto Utilities, Anaheim Public Utilities, City of Lodi Electric Utility Department, and the Energy Trust of Oregon.

[October 19, 2009] ADDENDUM - STIMULUS ACT TAX BENEFITS - The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act(ARRA) of 2009 provides additional incentives for investing in renewable and solar energy. This 2 page addendum discusses key elements to consider in financing solar projects.