Most systems were installed to take advantage of federal tax credits in the late 1970 s and early 1980s. Some owners observed that reliable local maintenance is crucial. Some owners commented that public education is very important to raise awareness of the benefits, and teach people how to get the most out of the systems they have. A little over one third of the respondents were motivated by environmental concerns to install their systems. This is about 73 to 98 tons per year .
Carbon dioxide is linked to air quality problems and contributes to global climate change.
Local air quality was also improved by reducing sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide emissions that fossil fuel burning would have produced. These chemicals are components of acid rain. If 500 homes in Newton installed solar systems to heat their water, we would reduce CO2 emissions an additional 550 tons per year, along with reducing all other associated pollutants. The survey itself spread knowledge of the project and increased community support. The Newton Government Web Site is a service of the City of Newton.