SPG Solar, Inc. (SPG)

SPG Solar, Inc. (SPG) supplies the photovoltaic (solar energy) system option for the Glidehouse™ modular home. Architect Michelle Kaufmann designed the solar systems to integrate with the Glidehouse roof.

Solar energy complements the Glidehouse sustainable home ideal by providing clean renewable energy generation on the site where the energy is consumed. The PV systems are available for all Glidehouse models and can be installed anywhere the Glidehouse is located.

Glidehouse™ modular home PV systems are available in two standard sizes, 2.5 kilowatts and 5 kW. Larger systems are available from SPG as needed, including roof- or ground-mount systems.

For the 2-bedroom model, the 2.5 kW solar system is generally recommended, and the 5 kW system is recommended for the 3- or 4-bedroom models.

Each family uses energy differently. SPG will help decide which PV system is right for your Glidehouse™ modular home, based on an assessment of previous annual energy usage and future energy needs.

A SPG Energy Consultant will interview the Glidehouse™ modular home owner and create an energy use profile. This profile takes into account planned appliances such as spas, swimming pools, special lighting or refrigeration, wine storage, etc. SPG then recommends the right-sized solar system to meet current and future energy needs, replace grid energy, and eliminate your electric bill.

Solar Incentives and Benefits Top
Many parts of the U.S. have generous rebates and incentives programs for solar energy. To find the incentives available in your area, click on the online Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE). DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and selected federal incentives that promote renewable energy.

In California, PV systems are eligible for a $3.00 per watt rebate, about one-third of the cost of the solar system. Another third of the cost is deducted by combining 10% federal tax credits, 7.5% state tax credits, and 5-year depreciation. The cost for adding solar to your Glidehouse™ modular home in California is post-rebate.

In states with Net Metering regulations, including California, your Glidehouse™ modular home solar system stays connected to the grid—no batteries necessary. On sunny days the solar system automatically sends surplus energy back to the local utility for credit on your electric bill. The power generated by your PV system combined with the utility credit can cut your net annual electric bill to zero. The solar panels are warranted for 25 years by the manufacturer.

Solar converts sunlight directly into electricity, and is the cleanest and most elegant form of energy production. Solar is solid state and has no moving parts, needs little or no maintenance, has a lifespan of 35 years+, runs all the time while the sun is shining, is silent and produces no emissions—air, ground or water—ever.

A 2.5 kW solar energy system replaces 3 tons of carbon dioxide that would otherwise be emitted into the atmosphere annually by a natural gas-fired power plant. A 5 kW solar system replaces 6 tons of carbon dioxide annually, which takes one acre of trees one year to absorb. A solar system on the Glidehouse™ modular home removes your family’s energy demand from the public utility grid during the day when demand on the grid is highest.

Installation Options Top
SPG installs the solar systems for the Glidehouse™ modular home in the Northern California region served by PG&E.

For installations outside Northern California, SPG supplies the complete PV system component package including solar panels. The PV system is shipped with instructions and a permitting package that conforms to the Uniform Building Code and the National Electrical Code. A local licensed electrician will install the system.

Inside Northern California PG&E territory:

SPG provides complete turnkey installation. SPG carries and processes the rebate. SPG provides engineering and processes the permit application (cost of permit assessed separately and at cost to customer).
SPG processes all PG&E interconnection agreements and final inspections.

Outside Northern California (outside PG&E territory):

SPG provides system package for 2.5 or 5.0 kW system including solar panels and all necessary hardware. SPG assists Glidehouse™ modular home owners with forms and instructions to process rebates. SPG provides an engineering and permit package conforming to highest National Electrical Code and Universal Building Code standards (single-line electrical diagram, electrical & structural engineering, site & elevations plans with panel and equipment layout). SPG provides assistance with forms and instructions for interconnection agreements and inspections.
SPG provides technical support.

For “Stand Alone” or “Off-Grid” PV Systems (where grid power is unavailable):

SPG provides system package for 4.0 – 8.0 kW battery backup systems, including solar panels, batteries, and all necessary hardware, wire & conduit. Off-Grid Systems do not qualify for cash rebates, though they may qualify for some tax incentives. SPG will provide information on available incentives. SPG provides an engineering and permit package conforming to highest National Electrical Code and Universal Building Code standards (single-line electrical diagram, electrical & structural engineering, site & elevations plans with panel and equipment layout).
SPG provides technical support.