Solarponics, the longest continually owned and operated solar company in California, started off its 35th year in business with an installation for the co-owners of the Tobin James Cellars, Lance and Claire Silver. 

This marks more than 3,000 solar installations in the past four decades for the Central Coast company, which has been a leader in solar innovation since 1975.

The Silvers recently installed a Solarponics' solar system on their home that consists of 33 panels. The system is neatly and discretely installed on their garage roof and hard to see unless pointed out. 

"We chose to install a solar system because we wanted to lower our power bills and go greener. Solarponics was our first choice because of their reputation and history of service in this area," said Claire Silver.

The system will eliminate the majority of their electrical bill and provide about 90 percent of their energy.  

"By installing a solar system on their home, they will help the environment and save on their PG&E bill.  It will also hedge against future rate increases," said Solarponics' Sales Manager Andrew Stewart.

The panels are guaranteed to still be producing at 80 percent of their original power after 25 years and will continue to operate for about 40 years. 

Solarponics can design, install and service a wide range of simple to complex living systems.

"We would recommend to anyone interested in installing a solar system to do their homework and choose a reputable company like Solarponics that has been around for a long time," said Silver. 

Visit www.solarponics.com for more information. 

Click here for a list of local solar installation companies.