I started to think about this deal and asked myself, "Why Lennar Corporation?" Installing solar power on non-energy-efficient homes is like trying to capture rain in rain barrels that have holes in the bottom. It doesn't make sense. In the entire process of making a home green, installing solar is one of the last things a person should do. But I came to the realization that most likely, Lennar Corporation was able to score such a good deal with the SMUD because it has experience building green homes with solar capabilities.

Lennar has a program called SOLAR plus. Under this program, the house is built efficiently to maximize the benefits of having solar electricity generation. Some green home features include: low-E, dual-glazed windows with energy-efficient vinyl frames, 15 SEER rated central air conditioner, improved insulation (R-13/R-19 exterior walls, R-38 attic, and tight ducts), and energy-efficient lighting. The solar system is the PowerLight SunTile 2.3kW Solar Electric System, which blends, almost invisibly, into the profile of the roof. According to Lennar's website, the system is maintenance free and has a 25 year warranty.

Soon, entire subdivisions such as the Anatolia and North Douglas in Rancho Cordova, Village Greens in Natomas, and Laguna Ridge in Elk Grove will be seriously powered by solar. Homebuilders around the country should watch this project with interest. It's entirely likely that other local authorities will be looking for the right green homebuilders to work with to establish solar power incentive programs, but before you get the $$ to install solar, you better be able to build a green home.