What - How Does Solar System Work?
Grid-connected projects can apply for Net Metering (utility meter spins backwards)
Why - Net Metering Example
System Size – 5kW (5,000 watts)
Annual Production ~5,600 kWh
Annual Usage Onsite ~7,500 kWh
December
Produce 150 kWh
Use 600 kWh
Pay for 450 kWh on electric bill
July
Produce 800 kWh
Net Metering!!
Use 600 kWh
Receive 200 kWh credit (in $)
Why - Massachusetts Residential Electricity Prices
2011 Avg Residential Electricity Prices
(cents per kWh)
35.00
30.00
25.00
MA
20.00
US
15.00
10.00
Sources: EIA 2011 Data
WA
UT
AR
KY
SD
OK
MT
TN
MS
IA
KS
NM
GA
AZ
CO
FL
US
WI
MI
DC
RI
CA
NJ
NH
CT
0.00
HI
5.00
Why - Solar Incentives in Massachusetts
High electricity prices + Reduced Solar PV Costs +
Numerous Incentives = Economical solar projects
Incentives
Tax Incentives:
Federal (30%)
State (15% up to $1,000)
Rebates from MassCEC:
Typically $2k - $4k
Net Metering
SREC 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?
• 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
http://energy.ltgovernors.com/solar-energy-pv-systems-self-generation-make-your-own-power.html
How - Ownership
Ownership Models
Financing Options
• Outright purchase
• Home Equity Loan
• Power Purchase Agreement
• FHA Title 1 Home Improvement Loan
• Lease
• Local banks may offer different options
How - Process for the Customer
Energy
Audit
LGHA
Design
Review
Contract with
Installer
Site
Assessment
Installation
paperwork
reviewed &
approved
Installation
paperwork
(permits,
interconnection,
rebates)
Sign up
with an
SREC
aggregator
Installer closes
out installation
paperwork
Installation
scheduled
Inspector(
s) sign off
on system
System is
turned
on
Apply for
tax
credits
LGHA - Bylaw
Any 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.