Baker Electric Solar held an educational workshop on April 9, 2013 for local Escondido Rotary Club members. BES solar consultants covered the ABCs of solar and answered attendees' questions.

Baker Electric Solar, a full-service solar integrator specializing in green technology design / build residential solar and commercial solar installations, held an educational workshop for the local Escondido Rotary Club, District 5340 at the company's 30,000 square foot facility on April 9, 2013. Escondido Mayor Sam Abed was an honored guest at the lunch and learn event.

In harmony with Rotary's banner of "Service Above Self," Escondido-based Baker Electric Solar (BES) set out to provide useful information to the members in attendance. With knowledge of how solar works, members may use the details in any one of the wide range of humanitarian projects the Rotary Club becomes involved in.

Chartered October 20, 1924, the Escondido Rotary Club is one of the largest among the more than 60 Rotary clubs in San Diego and Imperial counties. As a volunteer organization of business and professional leaders,Rotary provides humanitarian services, and helps to build goodwill and peace in the world. The organization exists to improve communities through a range of intercultural and educational activities.

Baker Electric Solar's Residential Sales Manager, Andrew Berlin, and Alliance Program Manager, Jeremy
Johnson, gave a comprehensive Power Point presentation on: how solar works; solar as a financial investment; solar options in both products and financing; along with mention of the Baker family of companies' 75-year history in Escondido.

When asked what the top three questions were, Johnson said, "The group showed marked interest in the benefits of leasing vs. purchasing a solar system. There was also a great deal of discussion about why proper rooftop mounting is so important. In addition, members voiced concerns about hiring a company that would still be in business for the life of a 20+ year solar investment."

In regards to leasing vs. purchase, there are cost savings with a lease. The leasing company typically
depreciates the equipment and passes along the savings as an incentive to the customer. As to why rooftop mounting is important -- mounts are normally not covered by manufacturers or leasing company warranties.Double flashings on tile roofs and high quality equipment along with installation best practices help ensure a solar system mounting will not cause roof leaks.

"Finding a diversified electrical contracting / solar company is key. It raises the likelihood the installer will be around after the solar boom," said BES Residential Sales Manager, Andrew Berlin. "Identifying a company that as been through peaks and valleys in its history and has other business supporting it outside of solar provides peace of mind that the solar system will be covered and performing at a high level for the life of the investment.It's been great to share valuable solar information with our local Rotary Club."

To schedule a solar educational presentation for your organization, call Baker Electric Solar at (877) 543-8765.

About Baker Electric Solar (BES)
Escondido-based NB Baker Electric, Inc., dba Baker Electric Solar, designs, builds and installs photovoltaic solar power systems for new and existing homes and commercial facilities across Southern California. Baker Electric Solar offers a zero-down, fixed monthly payment lease option. BES is a 2012 Inc. 500|5000 company and one of San Diego's 2012 Fastest Growing Private Companies. In addition, BES is San Diego's first SunPower Elite Dealer and 2011 SunPower Regional Residential Dealer of the Year. For more information,visit http://www.bakerelectricsolar.com.

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