The Solar Energy Improvement Special Assessment Act, sponsored by State Senator Peter Wirth and State Representative Brian Egolf, is exciting new legislation that will make green improvements accessible to all homeowners. The idea of living off the grid is no longer an alternative lifestyle. It's becoming a mainstream concept as we see not only the green initiatives implemented by the Obama administration but hear our kids discussing our "carbon footprint" around the dinner table. Previously the cost of adding a solar energy system to a home was prohibitive and while many longed for a way to get off the grid and contribute to cleaner energy, we were tied to coal-fired power plants and big oil. I am thrilled to say that is coming to an end.

A residential photovoltaic system can create significant financial savings while helping to minimize the tons of carbon dioxide and other pollutants created by traditional power plants. Modern systems operate automatically by switching between the utility company's power and solar power. These systems are designed to cover 10, 50, or 100 percent of your household electrical usage. PNM has a net metering program so you could produce surplus energy to offset the energy you have already used. What sweet satisfaction to see the utility dial that normally counts kilowatt hours spinning backwards, representing credit earned towards future bills.

A solar thermal system is typically a solar hot-water system sized to heat enough hot water used by a household on any given day. But larger applications are possible given the radiant heat so popular in today's homes. Imagine the savings when the heat running underneath your feet in winter is primarily generated by the sun overhead. Imagine the positive impact on our environment when the need for propane and natural gas becomes secondary. Imagine the industry created by the development and installation of photovoltaic and solar-thermal systems all over Santa Fe.

Let's say a new PV system costs a homeowner $20,000. Most people do not have the capital to invest and must find financing. While home-equity loans are possible, a 10-year note could still make the expense greater than the benefit on a short-term basis. House Bill 572 allows for financing to be procured through a special program at the county level, with a favorable interest rate and terms, and that loan will be tied to the property by a special assessment. Repayment will be in much the same manner as one pays one's property taxes. In the event the house is sold, the new owner who has the advantage of the solar-energy system would continue to pay the assessment. This incentive combined with the 30 percent tax credit offered at the federal level for new solar installations makes solar accessible for us all.

While the details at the county level are still being worked out, this is landmark legislation. Santa Fe, with its emphasis on preservation and sustainability, could be a new leader on green initiatives with its new building codes and policies. We've been at the forefront before with the development of Eldorado, the first solar community in the U.S. Let's lead the nation again and make Santa Fe an example all cities can follow for using its biggest attribute, our sunshine, in creating new jobs, new energy, and a new way of life.

Melissa Pippin-Carson is an associate broker with Sotheby's International Realty. Contact her at 984-5128 or mel@pipstips.com with your questions or suggestions.