A new solar system installation gives hope to Westminster homeowner Khanh Nguyen that the solar power system will help him save money on his electric bill.

Nguyen’s system is part of a mini solar boom that has been fueled in California partly by a state financial incentive program, but solar energy experts say tax credits passed by Congress as part of the recent financial bailout should drive the numbers even higher.

Numbers suggesting a solar energy trend seem to hold in Orange County and across the state.

From Orange County so far this year, the California Solar Initiative program has received 338 applications for rebates, up from 204 applications for all of last year.

People who install residential systems can receive $2,200 per kilowatt of electricity the system could produce; that typically results in a $9,000 to $10,000 rebate, depending on the system’s size and other characteristics.

The number of residential systems is trending upward and represents the bulk of rebates the program issues. It is paid for by Southern California Edison ratepayers.

And the Solar Energy Industries Association, a trade group, estimates that there were 12,700 solar energy system installations across the nation in 2007, up from about 10,000 in 2006.

The 30 percent tax credit enacted by Congress as part of the bailout package extends an earlier credit for eight years – and removes a $2,000 cap for residential customers on the amount.

The solar panels use silicon cells to soak up sunlight and produce DC electric current; the inverter converts the DC power into AC power, which is fed into the home’s electrical system.

Excess electricity flows into the Edison power grid, resulting in a delight for many homeowners with solar power systems: watching their electrical meters spin backward. They receive credit for power they’ve pumped into the system.

Nguyen – who recycles, is considering installing a small wind turbine in his home and belongs to Westminster’s energy committee, a group of alternative power-minded residents and city officials – figures his early object lesson for Bill might also entice some of his neighbors.

“I’m hoping this will be an example of what can be done to encourage other homeowners,” he said.

To learn more about solar installations in your area, contact NexGen Construction for a free solar webinar or a free solar estimate on your property.