Builder Incentives and Criterion

The SunBuilt Program is an incentive-based solar program, designed to give builders and potential clients the opportunity to interact with solar water heating technologies. To do this, we grant participating builders with either solar water heating rebates or system vouchers to reduce the initial purchase cost of the solar systems. The program was originally developed as a joint effort between the Florida Solar Energy Research and Education Foundation and the Florida Home Builders Association, under the direction of the Florida Energy Office.

SunBuilt Builders can receive a $500 solar water heater rebate for each solar equipped home. In addition, builders who commit to building all homes with a solar water heater are eligible for a voucher for a free installed solar water heater on their model or parade home.

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Rebate Criterion:
To receive the $500 solar water heating system rebate, a builder must:

• Retain a current FHBA membership.
• Sign a SunBuilt Silver or Gold Pledge.
• Install FSEC certified solar water heating system manufactured by a FlaSEIA member.
• Use a FlaSEIA member (licensed solar contractor or plumber) and FHBA member to install the system.
• Submit rebate application with solar contractor invoice along with photos (front of the home and installed system).
• Allow SunBuilt/DEP/FHBA media coverage of the home.
• Participate in a new home energy efficiency program (through local utility, Energy Star or via a demonstrable energy efficient home design).

System Voucher Criterion:
To receive a free installed model OR parade solar water heating system (including storage tank), a builder must:

• Retain a current FHBA membership.
• Sign a SunBuilt Gold Builder pledge and submit with system voucher application.
• Receive pre-approval from SunBuilt.
• Install solar water heating system manufactured by a FlaSEIA member on a home designated for entry in the local Parade of Homes OR on a model home in a large-scale development (100 or more homes at build-out). If installed on a model home, the model must be available for public viewing for a minimum of 6 months.
• Use a FlaSEIA member (licensed solar contractor or plumber) and FHBA member to install the system.
• Allow SunBuilt/DEP/FHBA media coverage of the home.
• Participate in a new home energy efficiency program (through local utility, Energy Star or via a demonstrable energy efficient home design).

For additional information about the SunBuilt^TM Program, contact the Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation at 1-800-59-SOLAR.