Outage Center
Interested in Solar?
This guide provides an overview of solar, the benefits, the drawbacks, and more.
What is Solar?
Solar is the conversion of sunlight into electricity. This conversion can be direct by using photovoltaics, or indirect by using concentrated solar power.
Benefits
- Reduced energy usage
- Tax rebate from the state
- Environmentally friendly
- Helps to sustain grid health
- Renewable energy source
- Increase your home’s value
Drawbacks
- Weather dependent
- High initial capital costs
- Greater amount of maintenance for panels
- Systems only produce 85% of total rating
Interconnected or Off Grid?
Interconnected
Connected to the utility grid through your meter
Off Grid
A system that is isolated from the grid
Interconnection Requirement List
From member:
- Currently have and maintain a $100,000 insurance policy
- Add CFEC as “additional interest” on insurance policy
- Provide page from policy declaration showing CFEC listed for records
- Pay $100 interconnection fee, or arrange for solar contractor to do so
From solar contractor:
- List of materials to be Installed
- Site plan
- PV layout
- Single line diagram
- Proof of state certification
- Proof of state electrical license (If a subcontractor is used)
- Wiring compliance letter (All local regulations/codes met)
- Copy of county permit
- Final approval by the county
From CFEC:
- Final approval by utility
- Test equipment
- Obtain signed interconnection contract
- Install bi-directional meter
- Obtain $100 Fee
- Update all records for the account and billing
- Maintain file for PV array for the account
Interconnected Photovoltaic Solar Example
Solar panels convert energy from the sun into electricity
An inverter converts the electricity produced by the solar panels from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) for use in your home, school, or business
The energy is used in your home, school, or business
A bi-directional meter measures energy used and excess energy produced
Excess energy from your solar panels not used in your home goes back to the electrical grid
The Process
Contractor & Design
Once you find a contractor, they will design a system that fits your needs and energy usage. At this point, CFEC must be notified of installation.
Contract & Installation
After you sign a contract with them, installation will begin.
Obtain from Contractor:
- Final approval by utility
- Test equipment
- Obtain signed interconnection contract
- Install bi-directional meter
- Obtain $100 Fee
- Update all records for the account and billing
- Maintain file for PV array for the account
Paperwork
After paperwork has been provided, CFEC will obtain a contract with the member (for interconnected systems only) and change the meter. A fee of $100.00 is required for interconnection.
Installation of New Bi-directional Meter
Final Checklist with CFEC
- Final approval by utility
- Test equipment
- Obtain signed interconnection contract
- Obtain $100 fee
- Update all records for account and billing
- Maintain a PV array file for the account.
Billing
Excess kWh’s will be bought back at avoided cost of *4.1¢ per kWh. This will be calculated into your monthly bill. *Rate subject to change.
