Learn Renewables in Costa Rica!

Learn about renewable energy for the devloping world at a beautiful lodge in the rainforest of Costa Rica! SEI will be holding a workshop, Jan. 23 - 29, with a strong hands-on component, focusing on solar cooking, biogas, solar hot water, and solar electricity. Rancho Mastatal is an environmental learning and sustainable living center, retreat, and lodge located in the last virgin rainforest of Costa Rica’s Puriscal County.

Rancho Mastatal practices and promotes living responsibly in the tropics, while educating its visitors about the significance and majesty of the world’s disappearing tropical forests. For more information on SEI worskhop click here.

Federal Tax Credits for Renewables

For those wanting to know the scoop on the federal tax credits for renewables, here's a summary:

Solar Tax Credit for Business Increases the permanent 10% business energy credit for solar to 30% for two years. The credit reverts back to the permanent 10 percent level after two years.

Solar Tax Credit for Residents Establishes a 30% residential energy credit for solar for two years. For residential systems, the tax credit is capped at $2,000.

There are also tax credits for alternative fuel vehicles, and energy efficient appliances. For more information visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy.

SEI in Nicaragua

SEI staff and workshop participants had a successful week in Nicaragua working with Grupo Fenix and the community of Sabana Grande. Sabana Grande, located in Northern Nicaragua, is well organized and completing some amazing solar projects. They make their own solar-electric panels, install PV systems in other rural communities, and build and use solar cookers. SEI participants helped on some of their projects, while learning about the amazing work of Grupo Fenix and the solar folks of Sabana Grande.

For more info on the workshop, click here, and don't worry if you missed it, we'll have another in 2006!

Rising Energy Prices Lead to Interest in Solar

The cost of natural gas heating is predicted to soar this winter. Estimates from the federal government's Energy Information Administration suggest the price of natural gas could rise 50-percent or more over last year's average. Rising energy prices have ignited more interest in alternative forms of energy including solar thermal power. A solar hot water system can pay you back in reduced utility bills within 3 to 7 years, and is one of the most economical ways to reduce your fossil fuel use.

To find a solar thermal installer near you, go to Home Power magazine's directory and enter your city and/or state.

SEI has New Digs!

SEI recently bought 7 acres in Paonia, Colorado, and we are moving our Paonia office to the new location. We have a wish list of office furniture and appliances that we need to make our work more effective and comfortable. If you'd like to help out, our wishlist includes: desks, office chairs, table lamps, a comfy couch, a copier, and area rugs. Thanks for your support, and remember, all donations are tax-deductible!

Your Generosity Ensures our Success!

SEI would like to welcome our new members! As a membership-based non-profit, SEI's members are the heart of our organization and allow us to continue our educational programs. SEI Staff are passionate about the work that we do and membership dues help sustain our renewable energy endeavors.

Please join us! Become an SEI member and support our important work (and receive a free one year subscription to either Home Power magazine or E magazine.)

Click here for details on how to become an SEI member.

To all SEI members . . . SEI sends thanks!