Indoor air is typically 4-5x more polluted than outdoor air
A typical duct system leaks 35% to the outdoors
Homes produce more C02 emissions than autos and light trucks combined
25% reduction in U.S. home energy consumption = taking 1/2 of all passenger cars off the road

Efficiency of Solar Power

Cost Effective Solar

Most homeowners install solar photovoltaic systems for practical reasons such as lowering their electric bill and green reasons such as reducing their carbon footprint. Yet many homeowners are unaware that more affordable alternatives exist to maximize your savings on money and energy. Our solution at AHE maximizes the cost effectiveness of solar by installing a solar system that is sized to your home after implementing energy efficiency measures. If you live in San Francisco City solar may not even be a viable solution due to factors like fog cover and trees.

Solar and Efficiency

Rather then trying to sell you the largest solar system possible, first we lower your energy consumption with efficiency improvements. Then we design a solar system that is custom designed for your reduced electricity load. This is the most cost-effective way to invest in solar as energy efficiency is more cost-effective than solar. Combined they provide the greatest benefits in home performance, long term savings and reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

Learn more: an interesting case study comparison on the cost advantages and disadvantages of solar power vs. energy efficiency.

The "Solar Sweet Spot"

That’s what we call a solar system size designed for rapid payback. It is optimized to take advantage of tax credits, rebates, net metering and PG&E tiered rates. The solar sweet spot takes your consumption out of the higher tier rates where you are paying more per kWh consumed and places you in the baseline tier rate where energy is very cheap.

Long Term Benefits of Solar

Solar PV systems typically become a good financial investment when you spend a minimum of $75/month on your electric bill. Installing Solar PV also provides the advantage of saving money over the years. Historically, residential electric rates increased 6% per year and we expect this to increase to become even greater as the cost of production climbs. By investing in a solar system you freeze your electricity costs and protect yourself against energy cost increases.

EPA Lead Safe