A new equipment discount program, utility rebates and existing federal tax credits make it a good time for Southeastern Minnesota homeowners and businesses to install solar.

Customers can receive deep discounts on specific solar equipment if they sign up for the Make Mine Solar program by Sept. 30. The program, sponsored by the nonprofit Minnesota Renewable Energy Society and will include workshops to educate home and business owners about the benefits of going solar.

“The Make Mine Solar program makes it easier and less expensive to install a solar system right now, and we think this deal will encourage more people to install them,” said Laura Cina, MRES’ managing director.

For interested parties, the first step is to sign up at www.makeminesolar.org. A $20 virtual site assessment will estimate a site’s solar potential, costs after rebates and incentives, and the payback period based on energy use.