Solar and green strategies are cutting costs for Oregon business and home owners while reducing emissions and invigorating local economies.13 communities will be showcasing these homes and businesses as a part of the Oregon Green and Solar Tours coordinated by Solar Oregon in association with the American Solar Energy Society's National Solar Tour.  These events are the best way to experience a green and solar building first hand.   

For more details visit solaroregon.org/tours.  To coordinate a tour or become a sponsor contact Tania Parks, Statewide Tour Coordinator, tania@solaroregon.org. 

 

Around OR	Oct 4	::  Oregon Solar Tours
Corvallis	Oct 4	::  Solar Electric Systems
Enterprise	Oct 11	::  Solar Hot Water Systems
Enterprise	Oct 11	::  Solar Electric Systems
Coos Bay	Oct 11	::  Octoberfish Info table
Corvallis	Oct 18	::  Passive Solar Bldg. Design
Portland	Oct 26	::  Who Killed the Electric Car, free showing

 

 

Q: "I heard that the State of Oregon offers low-interest loans for renewable energy. What are the terms and where can I get more info?"

Oregon Dept of Energy responds...

A: In general the purpose of the Energy Loan Program (SELP) is to promote energy conservation and renewable energy resource development in Oregon. The program offers low-interest loans for projects that:

• conserve natural gas, electricity and oil
• produce energy from renewable resources such as water, wind, geothermal, solar, biomass, waste materials or waste heat
• use recycled materials to create products
• promote use of alternate fuels

SELP can loan to individuals, Oregon businesses, municipal corporations, federal agencies, public corporations created by the state or federal governments, tribes, state agencies, schools and non-profit organizations.The minimum loan offered is $20,000. Loans are provided at a fixed rate and fully amortized (no balloons unless requested by the applicant). Rates vary depending on the type of borrower, the project and when SELP bonds were sold. Most loans have a pre-payment penalty. Loan terms typically range from ten to fifteen years, depending on available funds and project type. The loan term must be within the expected life of the project. SELP underwrites loans somewhat conservatively.  We expect good credit and a demonstrated ability to repay the debt.  The fee structure is mandated by statute and is outlined in our application which can be found on the Energy Loan Program homepage.  For more information please visit our website at http://oregon.gov/ENERGY/LOANS/selphm.shtml

-- Energy Loan Program, OR Dept. of Energy

If you have a question you would like answered by a solar professional, email it to us at info@solaroregon.org.

and Solar Oregon will receive a $20 donation!