What - How Does Solar System Work?

Grid-connected projects can apply for Net Metering (utility meter spins backwards)

Why - Net Metering ExampleSystem Size – 5kW (5,000 watts)Annual Production ~5,600 kWhAnnual Usage Onsite ~7,500 kWh

DecemberProduce 150 kWhUse 600 kWh

Pay for 450 kWh on electric bill

JulyProduce 800 kWhUse 600 kWhReceive 200 kWh credit (in $)

Net Metering!!

Why - Massachusetts Residential Electricity Prices

HI

NY CT AK NH VT NJ

ME

CA MA RI DE

DC

MD MI

PA WI IL US

NV FL OH CO AL AZ TX GA SC N

MM

N KS VA IA NC

MS IN TN MO

MT

OR

OK

WV SD NE

KY WY AR LA UT

ND

WA ID

0.00

5.00

10.00

15.00

20.00

25.00

30.00

35.00

2011 Avg Residential Electricity Prices(cents per kWh)

MAUS

Sources: EIA 2011 Data

High electricity prices + Reduced Solar PV Costs +

Numerous Incentives = Economical solar projects

Why - Solar Incentives in Massachusetts

Incentives

Tax Incentives:Federal (30%)

State (15% up to $1,000)

Rebates from MassCEC:Typically $2k - $4k

Net MeteringSREC Sales

Low/No money down options

Purchase Incentive• Mass Commonwealth Solar II rebate• Residential energy tax credits

Production Incentive

• Net Metering• Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)

How - What makes a good site?

http://energy.ltgovernors.com/solar-energy-pv-systems-self-generation-make-your-own-power.html

• Southern exposure

•PV panels angled 30˚ – 45˚

• At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Open roof area of ~100 sq ft per 1 kW

• Open space for a ground or pole mounted system

How - Ownership

• Outright purchase

• Power Purchase Agreement

• Lease

• Home Equity Loan

• FHA Title 1 Home Improvement Loan

• Local banks may offer different options

Ownership Models Financing Options

How - Process for the CustomerEnergy Audit

Site Assessment

Contract with Installer

Installation paperwork (permits,

interconnection, rebates)

Installation paperwork reviewed & approved

Installation scheduled

Inspector(s) sign off on system

Installer closes out installation

paperwork

System is turned

on

Sign up with an

SREC aggregator

Apply for tax

credits

LGHA Design Review

LGHA - BylawAny resident may have solar panels installed on their roof of original main structure. The following restrictions apply and an exception will not be granted under any circumstances:- Solar panels must not be installed on common land that is entitled to Corporation- Solar panels must not be installed anywhere on the yard.- Solar panels must not be installed on town's conservation land.- Solar panels must not be installed on roofs of additions, porches, sun rooms, toolsheds, garage.

Resident must submit a design review before scheduling installation and that design review needs to be approved by the Corporation. In addition to the required documentation, the design review must clearly state the insurance and liability coverage pertaining to Solar panel installation. Resident is responsible for maintaining and upkeep of the panels. If maintenance issues are found, the resident will be fined and must take action to fix.

The board will need 30 days notice.

In case of termination of ownership of the property, unless ownership of the solar panel installation is part of the termination agreement, the installation must be removed.

For solar installation, an Abutter(s) signatures is required, but ONLY for the purpose of notification. If they do not agree with the installation, Abutter(s) must mention the same on the design review form along with their signatures.