Solar Grant Installation Program Applications Being Accepted Monday

The Tennessee Solar Institute will start accepting applications for the second round of its Solar Grant Installation Program on August 15th, 2011.

The Solar Institute will distribute $1.15 million in grants that can be used by small businesses and nonprofits to install solar components on their buildings. Once the systems are installed, the companies can sell excess generated power back to the Tennessee Valley AuthoritybizWatch.

Several Memphis companies received $1.73 million of $9 million in grants during the first round of funding last September. Those companies included Great Neck Saw Manufacturers Inc.bizWatch , which manufactures hand tools for construction and automotive repair, First Tennessee BankbizWatch , Memphis Bioworks FoundationbizWatch , Sharp Manufacturing Co.bizWatch and Shelby Electric Co.bizWatch

Recipients of the latest round of funding can receive up to $105,000 in reimbursement funds for solar project installation. The first round awarded money to 125 applicants across the state.

“The response to the first round of Solar Installation grants confirms the statewide demand for renewable energy” John Sanseverino, director of programs at the Tennessee Solar Institute, said in a statement.

Applications will be accepted beginning Aug. 15, and can be found at solar.tennessee.edu.

The Tennessee Solar Institute is part of the Volunteer State Solar Initiative, a comprehensive solar energy and economic development program that was established using $62.5 million from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

SOURCE:   http://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/news/2011/08/10/second-round-of-business-solar.html