Kathleen Beckman

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Saving $ with Energy Efficiencies

Starting in 2022, the city approved a new partnership with Cenergistic to reduce the city’s energy bill by an estimated $8 million over 5 years.  Of course, energy savings will help deliver CO2 emission reductions as well.

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Saving $ with Solar

The city is in the process of installing/planning solar on city buildings, to lower electric bills and reduce emissions.  Clearwater has recently received grants that will help deliver an estimated $6-9 million.   Here is a quick summary of the solar projects that are planned/in progress:

• Imagine Clearwater / Coachman park 

• Fire stations - new/existing fire stations  

• Solar study - A city wide analysis will be finalized in Q2 2023 for which existing buildings the city should prioritize for solar.

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Solar savings for Residents, Businesses, Churches, non-profits

As of the end of 2022, over 1,400 solar installations have been completed and/or permitted in Clearwater.  Trinity Presbyterian Church is a recent example, installing one of the largest solar arrays in Clearwater.  All solar installation reduce demand on the grid, lower energy bills, and reduce pollution.  The 1,400+ installations are reducing emissions equivalent to 1.9 million gallons of gasoline annually.  

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Solar tips and resources

Solar costs have fallen significantly over the last 10 years, but like any home related purchase, home owners should become educated on:

• What is a good price?  You should always ask and get a quote with $ per watt price.

• Get multiple quotes to compare.

• Check references for installers.

• If you are looking to finance, get educated and fully understand financing terms and any additional charges that might increase the total cost of your purchase.

• Solar United Neighbors is a great resource.  They have run many co-ops in the Tampa Bay area, including Pinellas/Clearwater.  https://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/  

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