Gulf Power has a shiny deal for customers – cash back when they install solar electric systems at their home or business.

The company is offering rebates for two types of solar installations:

{C}·         {C}Gulf Power’s Solar Water Heating program uses the sun’s energy to heat water. Solar thermal technology helps offset electricity purchases for heating water in your home. Gulf Power provides a $1,000 incentive for the installation of a qualifying solar thermal water heating system. 

{C}·         {C}Gulf Power’s Solar Photovoltaic (PV) program helps customers convert sunlight into electricity. Many homes and businesses install solar PV panels to provide a portion of their electricity needs. Gulf Power offers an incentive of $2 per watt up to a maximum of $10,000 per installation of a qualified system.

“Gulf Power’s EarthCents solar energy rebates can really help customers who are looking to install renewable energy,” said Jeff Rogers, Gulf Power spokesperson. “Combined with potential federal tax credits, our programs  help make the purchase and installation more affordable.”

The rebates are limited and must be reserved through an online application prior to the installation of qualifying solar systems. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers can begin signing up for the rebates at 8 a.m. on Oct. 3 at www.gulfpower.com/renewable.

Customers meeting all program eligibility requirements will receive incentive payments in 2012. Additional federal tax credits may also be available.

“Gulf Power offers several EarthCents rebates for energy-efficient products and we encourage our customers to take a look at all of the programs to see how they can save money and energy in their own home,” Rogers said.

To learn more about these solar rebates or other Gulf Power EarthCents programs visit gulfpower.com or call 1-877-655-4001.

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 430,000 customers in eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible electric service to customers while working to improve the communities we serve. Visit online at GulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”