In the spirit of Earth Day, we’re talking about going green. KTEN’s Jhen Kordela  says you can save money and reduce your energy production at the same time.

The federal government is offering a 30-percent tax credit on solar panels. Some states are even willing to pay half the cost. And, right here at home, in Denton, Texas,  Encore energy offers $2.46 per watt on your electric system for going green.

Earth Day is about caring for the environment and maximizing its resources in a responsible way.

Federally, President Obama has made that one of his many missions.

“The bulk of our efforts must focus on unleashing a new, clean energy economy that will begin to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut our carbon pollution by about 80 percent by 2050, and create millions of new jobs right here in America,” President Obama, stated to the media on Earth Day.

Locally, Sun City Solar Energy, in Grayson County, has a similar plan.

The whole idea of it is to offset your energy consumption,” says Richard Ayala, of Sun City Solar Energy.

The family-owned business is new to Sherman, but not to the Sooner or Lone Star state. It offers solar power electricity, hot water heaters and pools. The solar panels can power up signs and spin the blades on fans.

The solar panels can also increase the value of your home. Think of it this way, an investment of a few thousand dollars now, could save you thousands more down the line.

For more information on solar panels, click here

With the new administration, it seems renewable energy like wind, solar and biofuels are all the rage. Many of you may remember the energy crisis of the mid eighties, when energy efficient cars were crucial if you wanted to avoid hours waiting to fill your gas tank. Solar energy had state and federal support, and it seemed most people were committed to energy conservation. But when oil became plentiful, inflation decreased and energy prices stabilized, tax credits disappeared – and Americans went back to their old ways. Gas guzzling SUVs became popular, houses became bigger and most people quickly forgot the days when the bill for heating and cooling their home was nearly as high as their mortgage payment.

Do we now have the will as Americans to make the changes needed to become energy independent? Solar is a clean, inexhaustible source of energy that can easily be incorporated into our national conscious.

What does Solar Energy Say to You?

There are still those who look at solar applications and think they detract from the architecture of their home or neighborhood. But solar panels look like sky lights, and to some are like shiny diamonds on the roof. They take the light energy from the sun and make it into something useful. There are thousands of solar customers like George Jeong of Oklahoma City.

The Jeong family is saving 60% on their utility bills, and could not be happier. The solar panels on their roof are not only putting money back in their pockets everyday, but they have a sense of pride knowing they are part of the move towards energy independence.

Beauty is Not Just “Skin Deep”

Next time you see a solar application, stop and think about the beauty in all of the positive elements that are shining down upon us. Solar is helping us become cleaner, greener and free from dependence on foreign oil.

Don’t be fooled by low energy prices. The utilities continue to ask for rate hikes, and the days of cheap energy are a thing of the past. Visit your local Sun City dealer today, and help yourself and our country to a brighter energy future. SunCityEnergy.com

Sherman, Texas- Sun City Solar Energy announced their expansion into North Texas, a move that will help North Texas take full advantage of opportunities in the highly viable solar marketplace. Ricardo Ayala, a senior engineer with Texas Instruments, and Richard Ayala, with 5 years in loans and auto sales, and Chris Mitchell, with fourteen years in retail management will operate the showroom dealership. Their grand opening included a 30 minute educational solar energy seminar, refreshments and networking

“Over the past 16 months we have developed a business model for Sun City Solar and have made significant progress in implementing our model in Oklahoma and Arkansas, despite the challenging economic environment, stated Pamela Speraw, Director of Business Development for Sun City Solar. Speraw added that she is pleased to welcome Ricardo, Chris and Richard to Sun City Solar as they embark on their next phase of growth.

The Sherman Texas office is the fourth location for Sun City Solar. Ricardo Ayala conducted extensive research regarding options for renewable energy. “I believe Sun City Solar is committed to their customers and will establish us as a leading provider of highly integrated solar solutions, “said Mr. Ayala.”I look forward to delivering energy independence to North Texas, providing optimum value to our customers, and improving our community.”

About Ricardo Ayala – Over the past 32 years, Mr. Ayala held several positions with Texas Instruments. The past nine years he served as a senior product engineer developing new products and patents.

About Chris Mitchell – For 14 years, Chris Mitchell has served as assistant store manager for two large firms, concentrating on customer service. Mr. Mitchell is also involved in many social and civic activities in North Texas.

About Richard M Ayala – Richard M Ayala obtained a BBA degree with a double major in financial and economic from Texas Tech in 2004. After his graduation, he went to work for Wells Fargo financial as a credit manager. After two years with Wells Fargo, he took a new position as an internet sales manager with Classic Pontiac, Buick and GMAC of Carrollton.

About Sun City Solar Energy - Sun City Solar Energy designs, distributes and installs cutting edge solar energy technologies and equipment in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. Sun City intends to capitalize on its 25 years of residential and institutional knowledge of solar energy to improve the standard of living and quality of life for those who live and work in the region. For more information please visit www.SunCityEnergy.com .