Jeff Conroy-Krutz – MI

East Lansing resident secures stewardship through solar

East Lansing, Michigan, resident Jeff Conroy-Krutz had been considering going solar for some time when his church announced plans to install an array of their own. Jeff volunteered for the committee that brought the project to life. Along the way, he learned about the technology, environmental benefits, and federal incentives that help make solar more affordable. The experience gave him the confidence to pursue solar for himself.

Buoyed by his experience with the church project, Jeff installed a 4.62-kilowatt (kW) roof-mounted array on his home in March 2024. The initial system cost was $16,600, but when he files his 2024 taxes, he’ll save 30% of that total through the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The tax credit was increased and extended in 2022 by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a major win for homeowners looking to make the solar transition.

Jeff also received a $2,000 renewable energy rebate from his local utility company, Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL). Incentivizing rooftop solar adoption helps BWL meet clean energy and carbon neutrality benchmarks. The combination of federal and local incentives will save Jeff nearly $7,000, significantly shortening his payback period.

The system was designed to meet all of Jeff’s family’s net energy needs. During the sunniest months, the panels often produce more electricity than his home requires. The excess flows outward to meet local demand, a source of satisfaction for Jeff. “Not only are we generating everything we need for our own household, but we’re sending energy that’s been made in a sustainable way back onto the grid for other folks to use.”

Having helped his congregation and family experience the benefits of energy independence, Jeff has now become a vocal advocate for solar power. “I happily evangelize to anyone who will listen,” he said.