Recently, a member brought a Facebook ad to our attention that made it seem like Piedmont Electric Cooperative was selling solar panels. Piedmont Electric does not sell or install solar panels and we do not endorse any specific company if you choose to install solar.
However, we do recommend you speak with us before purchasing or agreeing to purchase a solar system. We can help verify or dispel any claims made by the solar installer and ensure that you are getting the right system for you. Here are 10 steps you should take before installing solar.
10 Steps to Take Before Installing Solar
As solar panel prices decline and technology improves, installing a residential solar system makes sense for some members. However, it’s important to find out the facts before committing to a purchase. Consider these points as you explore whether solar is right for your situation.
1. Make Your Home More Energy Efficient Before Buying a Solar System
Adding insulation, sealing air leaks, and completing other projects can cut your energy costs immediately, and you’ll also be able to reduce the size of the solar system you purchase.
2. Research, Research, Research Before Buying
Piedmont Electric Cooperative should be one of your first contacts. Experts at your co-op can answer basic questions, provide resource materials and can direct you to reputable contractors.
3. Understand How Your Solar System Works with Our System
Most solar systems are designed to provide you with a portion of the electricity you need. At night, on cloudy days and possibly at high-energy- use times, you’ll need more power than your solar system can produce. That means you’ll still be connected to our power lines. Make sure you and your contractor understand the appropriate policies for connecting to our grid and for specifics on purchasing any excess energy your system might provide and if we are able to purchase your excess solar generation.
4. Review Your Energy Use So You Can Determine What Size Solar System to Install
Our staff can help you review your energy use, and help you determine how the projects you’ve undertaken to improve energy efficiency may help lower your future energy use. This information will help you determine the size and type of solar system best suited to your situation. Buying a solar system that is too big for your home will increase your costs and reduce your chances of recouping your investment.
5. Tally Upfront Costs
If you purchase a solar system, you will be the owner, and you’ll be responsible for the purchase price, as well as ongoing maintenance and repairs. It pays to spend time figuring out all the expenses you’ll be responsible for during the life of the system. These include the cost of the system, installation, interconnection costs, insurance, taxes and possibly other costs.
6. Search for Incentives, Rebates and Tax Credits
Incentives, rebates and tax credits vary by location. One database offering details is dsireusa.org. This site includes lists of federal and state incentives, credits, exemptions, grants, loans and rebates. The most widely available incentive is the federal income tax credit. Discuss with your tax advisor to determine how this affects your income taxes.
7. Accept Short- and Long-Term Responsibilities
In the short-term, you’ll need to meet the requirements of our interconnection agreement that includes paying any costs of connecting to our grid. Also, prior to installation you will need to contact your town and/or county agencies to conduct safety inspections. Long-term, you’ll be responsible for maintenance and system repairs.
8. Follow All Safety Precautions
Improper connection and maintenance of your system may endanger people and the reliability of the grid. Be sure to have a safety inspection done and to follow all safety precautions.
9. Choose a Reputable Contractor
When reviewing potential contractors, check out other installations the contractor has completed, compare at least three bids, check references and thoroughly examine contracts. If possible, ask an attorney to review the contract before signing. If a contractor tells you your solar system will be free, choose another contractor.
10. Maintain Good Records
Keep files on your pre-purchase research and pre-installation data provided by your co-op, as well as bids, contracts, inspection reports, maintenance records and all other details you have collected. In addition, set up a system to track and compare your actual system performance with predictions provided by the contractor.