In a digital flurry, by 9:10 this morning customers had claimed all of Gulf Power Company’s solar photovoltaic (PV) rebates from the utility’s website, MyGulfPower.com. The company offered customers $500,000 in PV incentives.

The rebate offered was $2 per watt up to a maximum of $10,000 per installation of a new qualified solar photovoltaic system. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight into electricity and homes and businesses can install solar PV panels to provide a portion of their electricity needs.   

“Gulf Power’s EarthCents solar energy rebates give our customers a great incentive to help install renewable energy in their home,” said Jeff Rogers, Gulf Power Corporate Communications manager. “Combined with potential federal tax credits, our programs help make the purchase and installation more much affordable.”

Through a pilot program approved by the Florida Public Service Commission, the utility has offered solar rebates for solar PV and solar water heating every year since 2011. The rebates are limited and are reserved through an online application prior to the installation of qualifying solar systems. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Gulf Power’s $1,000 rebate for the installation of a qualifying solar thermal water heating system is still available. Solar water heating uses the sun’s energy to heat water. Solar thermal technology helps offset electricity purchases for heating water in your home.

Customers must meet all program eligibility requirements to receive incentive payments for installing the solar PV or solar thermal water heating systems. Customers installing solar PV systems can also receive credit for excess electricity their systems produce through Gulf Power’s Net Metering program.

“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 MyGulfPower.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 provide exceptional customer value by delivering reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity while strengthening our communities. Visit online at MyGulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”