“It pays to ‘go green’”, at least according to one Lancaster County company. Kauffman-Gamber Physical Therapy on New Holland Avenue in Manheim Township first installed solar panels on its roof in 2004. Now, because of the additional state and federal incentives through President Obama’s energy efficient subsidies, the company is adding more.
Over the last five years, the company estimates it’s saved about $25,000. Part-owner Tim Kauffman says he believes they’ve set an example for other companies in the county.
Groups of people and local organization began stopping by the business when the panels were first installed to see how it all works.
“People ask all the time when is the payback and my answer is ‘everyday.’ It makes me happy,” says Kauffman.
Now, the panels are gaining popularity. To “green” the second half of the roof should’ve cost more than $80, 000. After state and federal grants, the cost is expected to be about $35,000.
“As soon as the PPL electric bills become deregulated, we’re gonna save that 30-50%,”
says Kauffman.
With the rate caps coming off early next year, Kauffman suggests other companies sign on to solar.
Kauffman-Gamber Physical Therapy hired Sunpower Solar to do the work. The company is out of Collegeville, Pa.
Sunpower Solar said in a statement, “We have experienced unprecedented growth in recent months, mostly due to effective policy supporting rebates, tax credits and other incentives, and are thrilled to see the industry growing.”
Kauffman-Gamber Physical Therapy believes it will double its savings in the next five years, saving an estimated $50,000. The company claims Sunpower Solar told them, they will see a return after only six years.
