CastleRock Communities, a leading Texas homebuilder, and SolarCity, (SCTY), America’s No. 1 full-service solar power provider, have teamed up to offer solar power as an option on every new home in CastleRock’s 42 communities in the Austin, Houston and San Antonio areas.

CastleRock homeowners who opt for solar may be able to cut their utility bills by hundreds of dollars per year and may lock in their solar electricity costs for decades into the future, shielding themselves from utility rate increases.

"CastleRock is very excited about the opportunity to provide our customers with the power to choose what kind of energy they prefer for their new CastleRock home," said Lance Wright, EVP/Partner for CastleRock Communities. "We’re also pleased to offer a new way for our homeowners to save, along with the chance to see how solar works first hand."

For customers who choose to go solar, CastleRock homes less than 2,500 square feet will be equipped with a 4-kilowatt array, while larger homes will sport 6-kilowatt systems. SolarCity provides free installation, and solar electricity payment is rolled into each customer’s mortgage payment.

"Our solar offering will give CastleRock customers greater control over their electricity bills," said Walter Cuculic, SolarCity’s national manager of Builder Programs. "CastleRock homeowners will have the opportunity to use clean, renewable energy for years to come and may be able to count on a stable electricity bill, even if utility rates rise."

In addition to the financial savings, CastleRock homebuyers will enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that their choice of living in a solar-powered home reduces their individual carbon footprint. Every standard 4 kW system in a CastleRock home will cut the homeowner’s carbon-dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than half.*

With three different series of homes, CastleRock Communities offers a variety of options to fit every family’s lifestyle. The entry-level Cobalt Series, with family-friendly floor plans, is designed for first-time homebuyers. Silver Series homes are suitable for growing families looking for a little more space. Gold Series homes, from 2,300 to over 4,000 square feet, boast two-story ceilings, large open kitchens and unique architectural designs. These homes are available with 2-, 4- and 6-kilowatt solar systems, respectively. Silver and Gold Series homes are also Energy Star Certified.

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