Solar Powered Homes Sell Quickly Despite Market Crunch

Coupled with other energy-saving features, the incorporation of solar arrays on the new Clarum residences will help homeowners reduce their utility bills significantly. Any excess electricity generated goes back into the utility grid — thereby spinning the meter backward, and accruing credit on the homeowner's utility bill.

"A solar electricity system adds tremendous value to the homes we build. By providing homeowners with attractive solar systems that generate electricity right on their rooftops and incorporating other energy efficiency features, we're enabling them to save 50 percent or more on their utility bills," said John Suppes, president of Clarum Homes and Byldan Corporation.

The Sharp systems feature all the necessary components for emissions- and maintenance-free operation, says the company, including a meter that allows homeowners to monitor system performance.

"By building homes that include solar electric power as a standard feature, Clarum is leading the way among homebuilders for the new energy standard in residential construction," said Ron Kenedi, vice president of Sharp's Solar Energy Solutions Group. "We're delighted that these homes are in such demand by discerning homebuyers that are concerned about their energy usage."

In 2006, Clarum Homes won the Governor's Economic & Environmental Leadership Award for Sustainable Communities for their efforts at Vista Montaña in Watsonville, California — the nation's largest zero energy home community, which also features Sharp solar electricity systems.