HOW DO I GET STARTED WITH SOLAR?

• Before choosing a solar system, be sure that your home is as energy efficient as possible. Adding insulation, sealing air leaks, and completing other basic fix-it projects make sense for several reasons. By improving your home’s energy efficiency first, you will reduce your overall energy use and may reduce the size of solar energy system needed- that saves more money.
• Make sure your roof is in tip-top shape. If yours is older, you may need to repair or replace it before installing solar (and remember, a solar energy system may last up to 30 years, so be sure your roof will last, too).
• Research solar and solar contractors thoroughly before investing in a system, get at least three quotes before choosing one. Be sure to work closely with NVEC for advice and assistance on interconnecting with the grid. We can provide information and energy use that can help you size your system and evaluate savings.

HOW DO I KNOW IF A SOLAR PV SYSTEM WILL WORK ON MY HOUSE?

To begin, you can look at factors such as which direction your home faces, the condition of your roof, and obstructions such as trees and other buildings that may block the sun during the peak generation period of 9am-3pm.

HOW MUCH ELECTRICITY CAN I GENERATE?

That depends on several factors:

•  The size of your system. Determine how much electricity you want to produce; then size your system accordingly. Note that you can start out small and add on. A system that will generate 100% of your energy needs is expensive, so most systems are sized to generate only a portion of your home’s needs.
• Your site. If you have a shade-free area from 9am-3pm, you’ll be able to collect more sun and produce more energy than if your site is shaded.
• Your region. The sunnier the days in your area, the more electricity you’ll be able to generate.

WHAT HAPPENS WITH A SOLAR PV SYSTEM ON CLOUDY DAYS?

Your system will not collect sunlight at night and on cloudy days. That means, you will draw electricity from your cooperative during these times, and because your home is still connected to the cooperative’s electric grid, you’ll be able to receive power.

WHAT HAPPENS WITH A SOLAR PV SYSTEM DURING POWER OUTAGES?

Most grid-connected PV systems shut down to prevent back-feeding electricity into de-energized power lines that may have fallen or that line crew members may be working on. It’s important to have this shut-down feature to prevent injuries- and even death- to those working on the line.

DOES NVEC PARTNER WITH ANY SOLAR INSTALLERS?

NVEC does not have a partnership with any solar installers.

WILL MEMBERS STILL HAVE A BILL WITH SOLAR?

Yes, members will always be responsible for a $17.50 minimum bill per residential meter. The member will also be responsible for applicable securitization (SCRF) charges on all delivered kWh to the member.

WILL NVEC BUY ANY EXCESS ENERGY I PRODUCE WITH A SOLAR PV SYSTEM?

No, there is no credit for the over generation.

As with any major home improvement project, purchasing from the right installer/contractor is every bit as important as the product you are purchasing. Due diligence is critical to ensure you get the best system, for a fair price, and that it’s installed correctly and on time.

Ask these questions to be sure the contractor knows the business thoroughly and has satisfied other customers. Also, be sure to request copies of insurance documents, certifications, and licenses, so you know that the contractor and installers have gone through the required training. Ask for a list of customer references and reach out to get their feedback and view their system. You should query local Better Business Bureaus and the Attorney General’s office and check online rating services for comments about the contractor and the equipment you plan to purchase.

1. How long have you been in business?

2. Are you licensed to do business in Texas?

3. How many PV systems have you installed? Can you provide a list of consumer references in my area?

4. What are the average size and cost of the systems you typically install?

5. What training have you and your installers had, and what, if any, certifications do you and your installers hold? Do you have an installer with a Master Electrician license, and is there an installer on your team licensed to install solar?

6. What brand of solar panels do you install? Why is this your preferred brand?

7. What warranties do you and the manufacturer offer? Do you offer a warranty on installation? How do I make a claim about defective or short-lived equipment?

8. What tax credits, rebates and other incentives will this installation qualify for? Who files the paperwork for any/all these incentives?

9. Is this bid an estimate or a fixed price? What is the process you will follow if you find unexpected problems with this installation and what to charge extra to fix the problem?

10. What documentation will I receive when the project is done? (This may include lien releases and other contract-related paperwork, as well as warranties, operating manuals and more.)

11. How much will the down payment be? When will it be due?

12. What is the payment schedule? How long after the work is completed will the final payment be due?

13. Do you offer or have a relationship with a bank that offers financing?