In keeping with our long history of innovative energy conservation programs, Gulf Power has launched a new initiative called EarthCents - a comprehensive menu of programs and educational efforts to reduce residential and commercial electricity purchases. One such pilot program is a Solar Thermal Water Heating program, which includes incentives for the customer - beyond the energy savings they could realize using this technology. Customers who have a qualified solar contractor install a qualified Solar Thermal Water Heating system on or after January 1, 2009 are eligible to receive a $1,000 rebate.

• All Gulf Power residential customers are eligible for the Solar Thermal Water Heating pilot program.
• As a program participation requirement, Gulf Power will perform a complimentary home energy check-up which includes comprehensive energy savings tips, free compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFL's), and guidelines for successful solar thermal water heating installations.
• Gulf Power will offer a $1,000 rebate payable to customers after the "qualifying" system has been completely installed and verified by field personnel from the company's Marketing department. Qualified systems are further outlined in the "Installation Guidelines" below.
• In addition to the Gulf Power rebate, participating customers may be eligible for an additional $500 rebate from the State of Florida, as well as a 30% Federal Tax Credit, up to $2,000, available to tax payers through tax year 2016.

• Qualifying systems must be installed by a contractor with a valid solar or plumbing license.
• The system must be certified as operational by the contractor that installs it and must meet applicable local building codes.
• Qualifying systems must utilize new equipment.
• Qualifying systems must be used for domestic water heating purposes -- solar pool heaters do not qualify.
• Qualifying systems must be certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) or the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC).