Whether it is a small installation to get you started or you want to offset your entire energy bill, solar energy is the wave of the future.

“More and more residents are turning to solar energy,” said Travis Burland, Chief Engineer of Bermuda Engineering Company Ltd.

“In fact, solar energy systems typically provide a greater return on investment than a savings account.

“If you install a solar system on your home, you can realise a worthwhile return on investment, sometimes as high as 20 percent. Many Bermudians who are wondering how to reduce their recurring expenses, particularly those facing retirement, are turning to solar. Solar energy provides a low risk investment with a solid payback. It trumps a savings account nowadays by a significant factor,” said Mr Burland.

And by utilising solar energy “you are less vulnerable to future oil price increases and global events that affect oil pricing and availability, which affect our fuel surcharge and energy rates. Once your solar system is paid off, typically in five to seven years, you have that extra money in your pocket at the end of each month. With a 25-year power production warranty on solar energy systems, you create long term and reliable revenue.”

Mr Burland said Bermuda Engineering has installed solar energy systems on over 100 homes in Bermuda. “We have a few clients who now get a credit on their energy bills. Their solar system completely offsets all of their energy needs in their house — and they are making more energy than they need each month, and every six months Belco tallies up the difference and writes them a cheque for that excess energy. They are making energy for Belco and making extra money for themselves,” he said.

Solar systems can be installed to suit varying homes’ needs and budgets and can be added on to in the future.

“Some of Bermuda Engineering’s clients have done like a ‘phased’ approach having started off with a three or four kilowatt system, they have then six months to a year later have realised realise how well it is performing and want to expand and install additional solar panels. As solar systems are modular, you don’t need to break the bank to get started. You can get a relatively small solar system that will offset a portion of your power usage every month, allowing you to start saving money immediately. You can then use the increased savings on your Belco bill to finance a larger system down the road for even further energy savings.”

Another query many have is whether solar systems are able to run their air conditioner or refrigerator.

“Sometimes, people ask if we can install a solar system ‘to run specific appliances, but the solar system is connected to your electrical panel and will offset energy wherever it is needed. Any excess solar energy being produced will go back into Belco’s grid, and you get a credit for each excess kWh you produce, at the same rate you pay for energy. It is very simple, very easy, and seamless once it is installed.”

Bermuda Engineering will also assist you through the entire process from an initial free site assessment to final systems commissioning, including all planning and Belco applications.

Mr Burland’s great grandfather Gordon H Burland started Bermuda Engineering in 1935. Marvelling at his great grandfather, he said: “He was ahead of his time. He had designs in 1935 for ‘the Bermuda solar water heater’. We still have the drawings and blueprints. He was going to go into production for these hot water collectors in 1938 however unfortunately, due to the onset of WWII, the dream never became a reality. Back then, he even saw the significant benefits of being able to utilise the natural resources available to us in Bermuda.

“Today, there is a very compelling financial case to utilise solar energy in Bermuda. In addition, the significant environmental benefits are undeniable. It is the right thing to do for your wallet, and also for our Island and the planet!”

For those interested, Bermuda Engineering (BE Solar) provides free site visits and quotes. You can contact 279-5907 or visit www.bermudaengineering.com to learn more today.