For those considering making energy efficiency upgrades or installing renewable energy systems, this compilation of guides, toolkits, cost calculators and maps is made just for you. Visit our Energy Conservation and Efficiency Guide and Solar Energy Installation Guide below to check out the steps we suggest for making your own personalized clean energy plan. If you need additional information, more helpful resources can be found by searching the database below.
Install & Invest Resource Database
Resource | Source and Description | Audience | Topic | Type | Additional Tags | File |
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Solar Savings Calculator |
The Energy Sage solar calculator provides a ballpark estimate of potential savings from going solar based on location, cost, and other variables. You can also download the True Cost of Solar Guide for North Carolina to find more information on sizing a solar system and estimated costs in the state. |
Tool or Calculator |
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Solar Photovoltaic Technology Basics |
A primer on the basics of solar energy technology |
General |
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Solar Information Resources |
The Solar Energy Technologies Office provides useful guides to going solar, introductory information about the technologies involved, and resources for local governments and solar professionals. |
Report Guide or Toolkit Map |
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Solar Benefit Estimate Calculator |
A calculator to help estimate costs and benefits of a solar system over time for homes, businesses and nonprofits, this estimate tool includes itemized system payback by year, tax benefits by year, energy savings, loan repayment and more. |
Tool or Calculator |
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Small Wind Guidebook |
A guide for homeowners, small businesses and farms to decide if wind energy will work for them |
Guide or Toolkit |
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Small Wind Electric Systems |
An overview of the components of a small wind system, as well as links to planning and installation guides |
General |
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Small Community Wind Guidebook |
A guide for communities, nonprofits, businesses, farms, municipal utilities and electric cooperatives to decide whether small community wind projects are right for them |
Guide or Toolkit |
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Self-Assessment Guide for Energy Savings |
This guide is designed to encourage leaders to engage their organizations in more efficient use of energy resources, thereby improving financial performance, pursuing cleaner air and reducing dependency on foreign energy. |
Factsheet Guide or Toolkit |
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Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) |
REAP provides renewable energy and energy efficiency loans and grants to agricultural producers with at least 50% of gross income coming from agricultural operations, and small businesses in eligible rural areas. |
General |
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RESNET — Certified Home Energy Professional Member Directory |
Find a Residential Energy Services Network member near you. |
Guide or Toolkit |