Meet the Bennetts
The Bennetts are a family of four living in West Hartford, CT. With two kids in middle school and a busy household full of devices, laundry, and heating needs, their electric bill had become a monthly burden. They were tired of unpredictable utility rates and wanted a smart, long-term solution. After exploring their options, they chose a $0-down solar loan—and started saving money the very first month.
Their Situation
Electric bill before solar: $230/month = $2,760/year
Home: 2,500 sq ft colonial with a sunny, south-facing roof
Energy use: High, especially in summer with AC and in winter with electric heat supplements
Goal: Lower monthly expenses and gain energy independence
Timeline: Solar installed in May 2025
Their Solar Setup
Their Solar SetupThe Bennetts chose a 15-year solar loan at a low fixed interest rate.
System size: 11.4 kW
Total system cost: $33,000
Loan terms: $0 down, 4.49% interest, $198/month for 15 years
Estimated output: ~12,200 kWh/year, covering 100% of their energy usage
Shoreline Solar included monitoring, support, and a 25-year panel warranty
The Incentives They Used
The Incentives They UsedFederal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of $33,000 = $9,900
The Bennetts applied this to their 2025 tax return with their CPA’s help
Connecticut Sales Tax Exemption
Saved $2,095 on the system (6.35% of total cost)
Property Tax Exemption
The solar system added ~$23,000 in home value—without raising their property taxes
Eversource Net Metering (Netting Option)
Generates credits for excess power that roll over to offset future bills
The family earns approximately $400/year in credits
Their Monthly Energy Outlook (Post-Solar)
Their Monthly Energy Outlook (Post-Solar)| Expense | Before Solar | After Solar |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Bill | $230/month | $15/month (utility fees) |
| Solar Loan Payment | N/A | $198/month |
| Total Monthly Cost | $230 | $213 |
| Monthly Savings | N/A | $17 |
| Annual Savings | N/A | $204/year |
Big Picture Benefits
Big Picture Benefits$0 upfront cost
They own the system and qualified for all tax credits and exemptions
Immediate monthly savings – Once the loan is paid off in 15 years, the Bennetts will save about $2,745/year for the life of the system.
Predictable payments that won’t increase like utility rates often do
Projected total savings over 25 years: $35,000+