As Minnesotans hover on the brink of yet another cold winter and concerns about energy costs come to the forefront, renewable energy experts at JJR Power in Excelsior, Minnesota today said they’ve seen an unprecedented demand for solar power thanks to incentives and grants created last year by the Minnesota Legislature. 

As utility rates climb and prices for solar power drop, JJR Power officials say they’ve developed solar solutions for a range of businesses and organizations in nine states, including schools, community hockey arenas, and a water treatment plant. They say they’ve helped them navigate the complexities of adding solar power to their energy picture in the most economical way.

“Utility rates have gone up 40 percent in the past decade and Xcel Energy’s rates are set to go up another 6-7 percent just in the next two years,” said John Jaffray, president and founder of JJR Power. “It’s a growing industry.  People are demanding solar, but where do you start?  It’s not about the technology, it’s not about the efficiency of the panels, it’s about whether or not solar is a good fit for your company or organization.  We help guide you through the decision-making and grant process.” 

Solar energy legislation passed last year in Minnesota requires local, investor-owned utilities like Xcel Energy to provide millions of dollars in financial incentives over the next five years to promote installation of solar energy systems. “Now’s the time to make an informed decision about solar,” said Mike Woodley, Director of Business Development, “and we help our customers do that.”

Meanwhile, solar costs continue to drop steadily.  The average installation cost per watt of capacity has fallen from $4.50 in 2009 to $2.50 currently, according to Jaffray.  By 2020, it’s expected to drop to below $1.50.  “It’s a broad trend—not a new trend, but absolutely a trend we expect to continue,” Woodley said.  “These falling costs plus the government incentives, which won’t be around forever, have made solar power a viable, cost-effective solution for many businesses and organizations.”

JJR Power
www.jjrpower.com