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Solar Power Keeps One Family's Bill Under $5

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Mar 23, 2009 5:32 pm US/Eastern

Solar Power Keeps One Family's Bill Under $5

CENTREVILLE, Md. (CBS) ― Rocketing utility bills have hit Marylanders across the board.  This past winter saw unprecedented amounts for many -- but not all. 

WJZ Reporter Alex DeMetrick found one couple whose monthly bill is less than the cost of a cappuccino.

Al and Nancy Schnoebeler have spent the past 20 years in their home in the woods outside Centreville, Maryland on the Eastern Shore.  Five years ago, they hooked into Delmarva Power. 

"Last month's bill was approximately three dollars and a half for electric use," Nancy Schnoebeler said.

Service charges cost twice as much, bringing the bill up to $10.65.  The rest of the electricity comes from the sun striking a small array of solar panels.

Instead of spending $25,000 20 years ago to bring in a line, the Schnoebelers spent $10,000 to run their home off solar-generated power.

For heat, there are two woodburning stoves, but most of the warmth comes through skylights and a wall of windows, which can be regulated with insulated shades. Their refrigerator runs off propane gas.

The steepest electric bills for the Schnoebelers come in the summer when air conditioning can go as high as $30 a month.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.