All solar electric system installations in the city of Aurora require a building permit. With this program, the normal permit fee (up to $500 for residential and $1,000 for commercial buildings) will be rebated for those properties that first receive a blower door energy audit from Xcel Energy. The cost of the Xcel energy audit, which is $90 for residents and $200-$300 for businesses, will be rebated as well. Step 1: Order and receive a blower door energy audit from Xcel Energy. Call 1-800-895-4999 or visit www.xcelenergy.com. Step 2: Choose a contractor that is licensed and registered through the city of Aurora, and receive a city of Aurora building permit Step 3: Fill out a Solar Permit Offset application AND an Energy Audit Rebate application. Submission Checklist

The rebate program is effective April 2, 2010 through September 2011. Rebates are offered on a first-come first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Interested parties must fill out separate applications for each rebate request. Only one energy audit per property is necessary.