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.