by Vikki Goodwin 

The city of Austin has a goal of making zero energy homes cost effective by the year 2015.  This year UT students are completing a zero energy home for a national competition.  As we continue to learn about global warming and the harmful effects of coal fired power plants, more people will demand solar energy and eventually zero energy homes.  Currently in Austin there are about 300 homes with solar electric systems, and about 10 homes with solar panels are for sale as of 11/1/07.  If you are interested in installing solar panels, Austin Energy provides a huge up-front rebate that will cover the majority of the cost.  If you are interested in buying a home with solar panels, installing solar at your home, or building a “green” home that incorporates solar, please contact Vikki Goodwin with Homes ATX, 512-426-9090!