SunWorks Launches Marketing Blitz on Solar Incentives

Jacksonville, FL (February 16, 2006) SunWorks Solar Systems, Inc. is launching a marketing campaign this month to build awareness of federal incentives that make solar installations the biggest bargain for consumers since 1980.

"The new energy bill that went effect in January gives residential consumers a tax credit of 30 percent, up to $2,000, toward the cost of installing a solar water system," said David H. Smith, president of Jacksonville-based SunWorks. "In addition, there is a 30 percent tax break on commercial installations with no monetary cap."

SunWorks will use television and radio advertising, direct mail, e-mail and public relations elements to get the word out about the tax credits and other incentives – beginning with a direct mail campaign launched this week that targets 10,000 households in the Jacksonville area.

Whether it is a residential or commercial building, water heating and air conditioning are two of the largest users of energy. By switching the water heating portion to solar, a homeowner or building owner can save between 15 to 30 percent on their utility bills – from $400 to $600 a year.

The cost of an installed residential system ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 before any tax credits or utility incentives are deducted, which lowers the installation cost to between $1,500 and $2,500 depending on the size and type of system.

In addition to the federal tax credits, Jacksonville electric utility JEA offers up to $800 off installation through its solar incentive program – which is limited to customers within the JEA service territory.

In the Jacksonville area, electric rates have gone up about 20 percent over the last year.

In addition to lowering the annual electric bill, Smith said the marketing campaign will also note the reliability of the new solar systems, the environmental benefits of using renewable energy sources like solar, and reducing the country’s dependence on fuels purchased from other countries.

SunWorks has hired local marketing consultant Joe Lazcano and public relations firm Ron Whittington & Associates to coordinate the campaign over the next 12 months.

"At this time, these federal incentives will only be offered for two years, so the window is relatively short for consumers to take advantage of them," Smith said. "Certainly, our hopes are that the tax incentives will be extended beyond 2007."

Founded in Jacksonville in 1973, SunWorks Solar Systems, Inc. is the largest solar energy distributor and installation company in northeast Florida and is a member of the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association. The company provides consulting, installation and service for solar water, pool heating, solar electric (photovoltaic) systems, skylights, and wind-power systems. For more information, contact 904-731-2099 or visit www.solarenergy.com.

Media Contact: Ron Whittington (904-563-0402)