GREEN BAY, Wis. - The Solar Mining Company, which calls itself "The Other Utilityâ„¢," is installing solar hot water systems at commercial, industrial, and nonprofit facilities for free, and then billing the customer for the hot water at rates lower than competing fossil-fueled options.

"We are the only provider of a clean, locally produced energy source that sells its energy for less than local propane and gas companies," said Richard Lane, managing partner, Solar Mining Company. "We treat solar energy like any other form of energy; it just happens to come from the sun. In these times of strained energy grids, blackouts, and supply and pipeline concerns, it's comforting for our customers to know they will always have control over a portion of their energy needs. Our energy is produced at the customer's location and, when needed, instantaneously delivered to its point of use."

In addition to the materials and installation, Solar Mining also assumes responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the solar systems it installs. "We want our customers to know we are in the relationship for the long haul," said Lane. "By making the process as risk free as possible, we want organizations and companies to realize how easy it can be to use solar energy to heat their water and save energy, money, and the environment."

Currently this program is only available to commercial, industrial, and nonprofit users of hot water.

In addition, Solar Mining also has a traditional contractor program under which the company designs and builds solar hot water systems and then bills the customer for material and labor. This program is designed for customers who want to own their own system and can take advantage of the tax credits and depreciation allowances of the system.

For more information on the Solar Mining Company, call 920-884-8510, ext. 2, or visit www.solarminingco.com.

Publication date: 12/06/2004