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6 Solar Program
Agenda Item # 6 TRU KEE DONNER istrict Public Utility D= Memorandum To: Board of Directors From: Alan Harry; Leg. & Reg. Manager Date: June 11, 2007 Subject: Solar Program Initiative Why this matter is before the board With the enactment of SB-1, the California Solar Initiative, l solar programd electric to encourage it within the State of California, must prepare, adopt a implement a customers to install solar energy systems. The preparation of a solar energy program requires a specialized understanding of solar energy systems and their operation. Currently the District employees and o �nitii°y administer at have such xpertise, as such, program to meet the District must hire an experienced consultant to prep the requirements of SB-1. History What is the California Solar Initiative? As part of Governor Schwarzenegger's Million Solar Roof program, California has set a goal to create 3,000 megawatts of new, solar produced electricity by 2017. As of January 1, 2007, the $3.3 billion program consists of three components: 1. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), through its California Solar Initiative, provides incentives over the next decade for existing residential homes and existing and new commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties. 2. The California Energy Commission (CEC) manages a 10-year, $400 million program to encourage solar in new home construction through its New Solar Homes Partnership. 3. Local publicly-owned electric utilities, tSBDis�pos will a s�atelmandated local mplement and (nance a program solar initiative program by January 0 Page 1 and requires that each local publicly-owned electric utility make certain program information available to charges,es, and expend $1rs. In the case of t77he District408 an's ten amountasetrbg the ram must raise, through customer9 CPUC. SB-1 establishes specific requirements for the local solar programs, including specific system incentives and minimum rebates. As further background, I have attached Go Solar, Get Rebate "A Discussion of Senate Bill 1 and a Review of Photovoltaic Products and Installers in and for the Truckee-Tahoe Area" authored by participants of the 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program. New Information Through the District's involvement with the Northern California Power Agency (NCPA), I have had the opportunity to meet and discuss the preparation of a solar program with Mr. Jim Brands of Efficiency Services Group. ESG currently provides turn-key public benefit program and energy efficiency programs for a number of NCPA members including Gridley and City of Shasta Lake. Further, they have recently been hired by Gridley and the Merced Irrigation District to prepare and implement a solar program as well. I have attached a statement of qualifications and company bio for ESG for your review. As previously stated, the District currently does not have the necessary expertise to prepare and implement a solar program as required by SB-1. As such, we believe that it would be in the best interest of the District to hire ESG to do so. Attached for Board review and consideration is an agreement with ESG for a Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Program that will comply with the California Solar Initiative and SB-1. This agreement includes the preparation of the program documentation, which will require Board adoption, local customization and training. The cost for this work would be $7,500, plus travel expenses not to exceed $1,000. Recommendation It is recommended that the Board Birect the and Efficiency esnt to sign the Group for Photovoltaic Solar Program. d Agreement between the Truckee Donner PUD Y 0 Page 2 EFFICIENCY Group Efficiency Services Group Efficiency Services Group (ESG) is a committed group of utility professionals who specialize in the development, implementation, management,tracking and reporting of energy-efficiency programs for utilities in the western United States.. What we do: ESG offers complete Public Benefits program administration(turnkey) and/or implementation of any part of a utility's energy conservation programs. ESG's range of services includes: For residential customers: • Development and complete operation of rebate programs including: Heat Pumps/Air Conditioning Appliances Lighting Weatherization Water heaters • An Energy Hotline for utility customers • Development of informational materials • In-field energy audits • In-field promotions including heat pump, CFL's • High Bill responses • Solar(PV and thermal) consulting and program development • Earth AdvantageTM for new construction For commercial customers: • Development and complete operation of rebate programs including Lighting HVAC Water heating Building shell measures • In-field energy audits • Informational materials • Solar(PV and thermal) consulting and program development For industrial customers: • In-field energy audits • Solar(PV and thermal) consulting Who We Are: ESG consists of three long-time utility specialists, an office manager and uses the services of a network of west coast energy-efficiency experts to assist on an as- needed basis. The three principles of ESG are: Jim Brands has 27 years of electric utility experience in marketing, sales, implementation and management of energy-efficiency programs (residential and commercial) in the western United States. He has a broad knowledge of the Western US energy picture gained by working for an Oregon municipal utility for 14 years,two investor-owned utilities in the Northwest(6 years) and the Northwest Public Power Association for 6 years. For the past 10 years Jim has been a West Coast sales representative to utilities in the areas of energy-efficiency, marketing and training. Mark Gosvener has 25 years of experience in the development, implementation and operation/management of resource efficiency programs in the residential and commercial market sectors for PGE and other utilities and agencies on the West Coast. Mark has developed and managed a wide array of programs promoting most residential technologies; notably Retrofit Weatherization(including low income markets), Water Heater,Multifamily Direct Install, Water Efficiency,Energy Expert Hotlines and Heat Pump programs. He is well versed in residential energy efficiency and is an expert in developing and managing supporting trade ally networks. Ted Haskell has 29 years of experience in technical support and training to contractors, technicians, utility personnel, building designers, and the general public in energy efficiency,with an emphasis on residential technologies. He also has experience with energy auditing, including small and mid-size commercial buildings. He has worked with Washington State University Cooperative Extension Service, Oregon State University Extension Service, and Portland General Electric. Ted has been certified as an Instructor in Heat Pump Equipment Selection and Duct Design by Air Conditioning Contractors of America, Certified Duct Doctor by Florida Solar Energy Center, and Energy Rater by Energy Rated Homes of Oregon. Ted has trained energy auditors and utility staff for Bonneville Power Administration certification and is able to use and train others in a variety of energy modeling computer tools. Geographic Focus: ESG is headquartered near Portland, Oregon. Our energy-efficiency experience is base primarily on the west coast and our current client base is located in California, Oregon and Washington. We have spent the last several years administering the energy-efficiency program for three Bonneville Power Administration customers (Canby Utility, Oregon; Monmouth Power& Light, Oregon; Skamania County PUD, Washington) and the last few years administering programs for Gridley, California and the City of Shasta Lake, California. Why we do this: The ESG team has a longstanding commitment to work that delivers energy savings and lower utility bills for customers, improved load shape and resource efficiency for utilities and the resulting environmental benefits for everyone. Each of the principles has had extensive experience and professional success in accomplishing these results and is excited to be able to work with and support the efforts of utilities who want to do the same. Contact Info• Efficiency Services Group PO Box 415 Clackamas, Oregon 97015 Phone: 503-658-4239 Fax: 503-658-2017 Xi EFFICIENCY . ., _ Group Statement of Qualifications JUNE 13, 2007 A. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................2 B. ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE............................................5 1. BACKGROUND AND QUALIFICATIONS .............................................................................. 5 2. EXPERIENCE.................................................................................................................6 3. SERVICES.........................................................................................I...........................8 4. TRADE ALLY EXPERIENCE............................................................................................ 10 C. PROGRAMS ...........................................................................4 ....................................... 1. RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS ............................................................................................ 11 2. COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL PROGRAMS................................................................... 15 D. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 17 INTRODUCTION Efficiency Services Group was formed from the Energy Efficiency Department of Portland General Electric (PGE) in 2001 as a result of pending electric industry de-regulation in the state of Oregon. Its goal was to be a financially viable business unit of PGE by serving the needs of residential, commercial, industrial and institutional customers in the western United States. It consisted of three departments; Energy Efficiency Programs, Green Building Services (GBS) and Earth Advantage, who provided technical and professional consulting services in high value energy applications and program management, energy efficient and sustainable commercial building design, operations, the Earth Advantage program and LEEDO certification. Efficiency Services Group was restructured in September, 2005 to better serve all of its customers. Part of the group returned to PGE as a regulated department, while ESG LLC (ESG) became an independent company. The new ESG's business focus is to continue to serve utility clients and their customers in California, Oregon and Washington. Working with utilities, municipalities, and cooperatives, or directly with customers, ESG's professional staff design and implement custom energy efficiency and renewable energy programs and perform turnkey consulting and administration services in the areas of energy conservation and renewable power. statement of Qualifications Page 1 of 5 Confidential and Proprietary ESG also performs a complete range of technical efficiency services. Using staff personnel and contract expertise, we incorporate the best of today's energy efficient design strategies and technologies to create a better living, learning and working environments for the customers of our client utilities. ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE Background and Qualifications ESG staff has extensive experience designing and implementing energy efficiency programs dating back to the late 1970s. That experience has been gained through the management and operation of programs run through both PGE and publicly-owned utilities. When ESG restructured in 2005, it focused its efforts on serving the needs of small to mid- sized utilities. ESG now serves clients up and down the west coast. In California, ESG provides complete, turnkey Public Benefits Program (PBP) administration for the cities of Gridley, Shasta Lake, Ukiah and Healdsburg. In addition, it provides specialized services to Redding, Biggs, Merced Irrigation District and Lassen MUD. In Oregon, ESG is the turnkey program provider of energy efficiency services to the cities of Bandon, Canby, Monmouth, Cascade Locks and Drain as well as the customers of Central Lincoln PUD. In addition, we work for NW Natural Gas and some low-income agencies throughout the state. In Washington, ESG provides turnkey administration to Skamania County PUD. Experience From the late 1970's to present, current ESG staff has been involved in the development and implementation of a broad range of successful energy efficiency programs that have yielded significant energy savings for a wide variety of residential, commercial, industrial and institutional customer segments. We have been involved with over a hundred commercial building projects, thousands of residential homes, and a number of industrial projects, including: • Single and multi-family residences • Supermarkets • High-tech industrial facilities • Large industrial/office campus buildings • Hospitality facilities • Primary and secondary schools • Hospitals and healthcare facilities • Elementary, middle and high schools Involvement in these markets has given ESG valuable experience working with a wide variety of analytical tools on a broad range of energy-intensive residential, commercial, industrial and institutional systems: Statement of Qualifications Page 2 of 5 Confidential and Proprietary Services Our team of professionals provides services in the following areas of expertise: RESIDENTIAL MARKET SECTOR: • Custom energy efficiency program design, implementation, and marketing services • Equipment Rebate Programs • Direct Equipment Installation Programs • New Construction Programs • Weatherization Programs • Systems performance testing • Weatherization audits, home energy analysis and performance testing • Auditor, vendor/contractor and builder training • Toll-free efficiency advice hotline for utility client customers COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL MARKET SECTOR: • Custom energy efficiency program design, implementation, and marketing services • Commercial and Industrial Retrofit Programs • Lighting and HVAC Rebate Programs • Industrial Process Programs • Retrofit Commissioning Programs • Facility management consulting • Commercial building commissioning • Commercial and industrial facility walkthroughs and in scoping studies • Energy audits at all levels (I, ll, III) • Product/system specification and design consulting services • HVAC system design consulting • Energy efficient lighting design • Operations and maintenance training • Project management services Trade Ally Experience ESG has broad experience in trade ally involvement (see the list below). This allows us to understand how to leverage resources, with vendors actively promoting programs and utilizing them to assist utility customers. • Lighting vendors, contractors and designers • HVAC vendors and contractors • Controls contractors • Residential builders, remodelers, and home designers • Weatherization contractors • Window replacement vendors and contractors • Water heater and home appliance vendors • Commissioning contractors • Energy Consultants Statement of Qualifications Page 3 of 5 Confidential and Proprietary Programs Current ESG staff has a long history (since late 1970s) with energy efficiency programs and renewable energy programs. Some of our major programs include: Residential Programs RESIDENTIAL WEATHERIZATION PROGRAM This program offers customers with electrically or gas heated homes a full home energy audit including an evaluation of the home's shell measures, water heating, heating system, lighting, and appliances. Recommendations for energy efficiency improvements are made and measures are installed by qualified contractors. The most recent version of the program also offered the installation of"instant savings measures" at the time of the audit. Examples of instant measures included replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs, installing energy efficient showerheads and faucet aerators and instructions for water heater temperature adjustment. MULTI-FAMILY DIRECT INSTALLATION PROGRAM This program has provided for direct installation of measures in the hard to reach "lower' income multi-family market. This program offered landlords of qualified multi-family units an energy efficiency audit and a variety of energy efficiency measure options for installation depending upon the measure's calculated cost effectiveness. Example measures included infiltration measures, replacement of incandescent bulbs with CFLs and CFL hard wired fixtures, installation of energy efficiency showerheads and aerators, pipe wrap, water heater temperature adjustment, and attic and under-floor insulation. This program has been delivered through installation contractors working under a performance contract. Measures were provided at no cost to landlords or tenants. WATER HEATER REPLACEMENT PROGRAM This program offers customers with electric water heaters a rebate for replacement of the water heater with a qualifying more efficient model. A specific delivery mechanism for this program can be determined by a utility. ENERGY EFFICIENT APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAM This program provides customers rebates on qualifying energy efficient dishwashers, clothes washers, and refrigerators when a customer submits a receipt of purchase and a completed rebate application. BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION CONSERVATION AND RENEWABLE CREDIT PROGRAM ESG operates residential weatherization programs, heat pump programs, appliance programs, and commercial efficiency programs on behalf of public utilities. COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY WEATHERVATION AUDITS ESG conducts energy audits for low income clients of the Community Action Program in the state of Oregon. These audits include combustion safety testing, combustion efficiency testing as well as building shell analysis. Audit information is used to determine cost effective weatherization improvements of low income residents. HOUSING AUTHORITY ENERGY ANALYSIS ESG has conducted energy analyses for local Housing Authorities to meet the Federal requirement to analyze energy efficiency in Housing Authority properties. These analyses prioritize cost effective improvements in insulation, air sealing, heating equipment, water heat and appliances. Statement of Qualifications Page 4 of 5 Confidential and Proprietary Commercial and Industrial Programs NEW CONSTRUCTION LIGHTING REBATE PROGRAM The program is designed to help customers install energy efficient lighting measures by offering a fixed rebate for equipment that is on the program's New Construction Lighting Equipment Rebate list (established by utility). NEW CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM LIGHTING REBATE PROGRAM This program is designed for lighting measures that are not on the new construction lighting equipment rebate list. A custom calculation is submitted to determine energy savings and an incentive paid based on a percentage of the customer's incremental cost to install the measure or the energy saved from the measure. NEW CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM INCENTIVE PROGRAM This program is designed for projects that are not eligible for equipment rebates or custom lighting rebates. The program may provide design and energy analysis assistance for buildings that install energy efficient measures under this option. LIGHTING REBATES- FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS The program is designed to help customers install energy efficient lighting measures and implement comprehensive lighting projects where proper lighting power density and foot- candle levels are met and control strategies evaluated and implemented as appropriate. All projects required pre-approval prior to the purchase and installation of equipment. HVAC EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT OFFER This program is available to all facilities, regardless of size, and is designed to help customers replace an existing chiller or upgrade a proposed packaged rooftop air conditioning unit. RETROFIT COMMISSIONING This program was designed to help customers identify systems installed in their facilities that were performing inefficiently and recommend energy efficiency improvements. REFERENCES for Efficiency Services Group City of Gridley City of Shasta Lake Redding Electric Utility Brad Wilkie Paul Eichenberger Bryan Cope 530-846-5695 530-275-7457 530 -339-7213 bwilkie pCDgridiey.ca.us paul.eichenberger@ bcope@reupower.com ci.sh asta-lake.ca.us Merced Irrigation District Lassen MUD Canby Utility Isaias Franco Theresa Boucher Debbie Naab 209-722-5761 530-257-6903 503-266-1156 ifranco mercedid.org tboucher(r-),lmud.org dnaab@canbyutility.org City of Monmouth Skamania Public Utility District#1 Dave Wildman Chris lobst 503-838-3526 (509) 427-5126 dwildmanCcpci.monmouth.or.us ciobstaskamaniaoud.com Statement of Qualifications Page 5 of 5 Confidential and Proprietary Doug Boleyn has over 30 years experience in the solar energy. Doug was employed 22 years at Portland General Electric, serving as solar/renewable energy consultant and developer of conservation and renewable energy marketing programs. Recently, in private business, he has been performing a range of renewable energy consulting, engineering, design, and project management for grid-tie photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. He is a member of the American Solar Energy Society, a member of the Home Builders Association of Metro Portland, and a registered Professional Engineer in Oregon. EFFICIENCY ' ` } Group June 13, 2007 An Agreement between Truckee-Donner PUD and Efficiency Services Group, LLC for A Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Program (Complying with the California Solar Initiative and Senate Bill 1) Efficiency Services Group, LLC (ESG) is pleased to be able to offer the following services as requested by Truckee-Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD). ESG and its support staff have experience designing and implementing renewable energy programs and services and look forward to assisting TDPUD in this work. Program Development Work: Under this Agreement, ESG will complete the following work for TDPUD: 1. Deliver an SB1-compliant Reference Manual which will include all information supporting a PV Program, and will contain at a minimum, the following information: A. General program information 1. Solar contractor requirements 2. Recording and monitoring of PV system output requirements 3. Solar system requirements (technical, performance) 4. Calculation of incentives B. Procedures and processes information 1. Metering and monitoring specifications, meter reading schedule and performance documentation of S131 compliant systems 2. Setting up billing for net-metered systems 3. Evaluating and approving of S131-compliant PV systems 4. Recording and tracking of Applications and installed systems. C. Customer Application Form Application Form will contain all information necessary to determine compliance with SB1 system requirements. Form to also be used for establishing incentive level and system tracking. D. Simplified SunCharts and Performance Estimate Tools Designed for Northern California utility use, in full compliance with SB1. E. Interconnection Rules Document Adapted Rule 21 document for Municipal Utility use that lists the technical requirements for connecting to the local utility grid in compliance with California Law and SB1. F. Net Metering Agreement Form Form will comply with SB1 and other California Law, with embedded Interconnection Agreement terms. G. Inspection checklist for SB1 compliant systems Suitable for local inspector or installer. H. Reporting/Tracking System Form to track program activity 2. Program Document Customization and Training A. On-site assistance to customize all documents developed for program startup and program compliance. B. Training for utility staff and solar contractors in Program Implementation and SB1, PV system compliance. (This will include all accompanying printed materials and a CDROM.) ESG Staff To complete the above-mentioned tasks, ESG will use the services of the following professionals: Doug Boleyn has over 30 years experience in the solar energy. Doug was employed 22 years at Portland General Electric, serving as solar/renewable energy consultant and developer of conservation and renewable energy marketing programs. Recently, in private business, he has been performing a range of renewable energy consulting, engineering, design, and project management for grid-tie photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. He is a member of the American Solar Energy Society, a member of the Home Builders Association of Metro Portland, and a registered Professional Engineer in Oregon. Jim Brands has over 26 years of electric utility experience in marketing, sales, implementation and management of energy-efficiency and renewable energy programs (residential and commercial) in the western United States. Pricing: To provide the services listed s above, t toSGexceed will carge$1h000 TDPUD a one-time charge of $7,500 plus travel expense Billing: ESG will invoice 50% of the initial charge ($3,750) following the signing of this agreement. Expenses will be billed monthly and the final 50% payment will be due following the staff/contractor training (2b. listed above). Signatures: By signing this agreement, the two listed parties agree to the scope of the work and the terms of billing and payment. Truckee-Donner Public Utility District Efficiency Services Group, LLC Signature Signature Print Name Print Name Title Title Date Date d RR tg � u 3 x = N A, aA', fr` , ET REBATf "A Discussion of Senate Bill 1 and a Review of Photovoltaic Products and Installers in and for the Tahoe-Truckee Area" Submitted by: Nicole Dorr,Bill Kelly, Lael Knoll,Diane McLaughlin, Pam Raynak, and Coral Taylor May 2007 Completed in partial fulfillment of graduation requirements for the 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program ABSTRACT The project team, "Go Solar Get Rebate", was united with a common goal of environmental awareness and the need for use of renewable energy sources in our area. In an effort to narrow our research and produce a product that could be used by a local government agency, we contacted the Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) and discovered a need for information about solar energy systems in residential structures. Solar power is our indicator and our goal is to provide TDPUD with information regarding solar power products that can be used in new and existing residential structures. Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) — The Solar Initiative — requires that local publicly owned electric utilities have a public process to collect public funds which will be used to promote solar energy (photovoltaic - PV) systems. Rate payers will be able to receive rebates and be connected to the utility grid. SB1 has a number of regulatory requirements including establishing allowed equipment, installation methods and system configurations. Although PV systems are very expensive (up to $42,000 net after rebates for a 6,000 installed waft system), the future costs of electricity are unknown, as is the availability of rebates in the future. PV systems are feasible only if a rate payer's property receives adequate sun exposure. For this reason, properties with PV systems may increase the value of real estate in the future, thus helping to make PV systems more economically feasible. Cost and return on investment are important considerations when deciding to make an investment. One of the goals of SB1 is to make rebates available for PV systems; minimum rebates are $2.80 per installed watt, at this time a maximum Federal tax credit of $2,000 is also available (See form and instructions at http //www irs gov/publirs-pdf/f5695.pdf for IRS form 5695). To begin understanding the cost of a PV system, rate payers can locate "calculators" on the web. For instance, one example of a PV system calculator can be found at "Go Solar", which gives the rate payer an idea of price, savings and system size; http://www.findsolar.com/i.ndex.php?page=rightforme; the calculator also gives the solar system capacity required, the roof area needed, installation cost, increase in property value and estimated Return on Investment (ROI). Most PV system designers and installers can also give you estimates of rebates and system output when they are designing your system. Additionally, these professionals will know the technical requirements and will be able to determine the optimum energy results you will experience. S131 rebates make the purchase of a PV system much more affordable, saving 28% of the total cost (Federal tax credits are not included in this analysis). Rebate savings significantly decreases monthly payments and interest, but even with S131's rebate current electricity savings would not pay for the installation of a PV system in the short term. Additional considerations, including higher interest rates, longer financing terms and increased property values were not included in this analysis. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................1 1.1 Team Goal in Project....................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Senate Bill 1..................................................................................................................... 1 1.3 Truckee Donner Public Utility District............................................................................2 1.4 Photovoltaic Products and The Grid................................................................................ 3 1.5 Why Go Solar?................................................................................................................. 5 2.0 RESEARCH CRITERIA....................................................................................................6 2.1 Local Vendors and Installers ...........................................................................................6 2.2 Wattage, Sunlight and Snow Load Criteria..................................................................... 6 2.3 California Energy Commission PTC Rating System.......................................................7 2.4 California Licensing Requirements for Installers............................................................ 8 2.5 National Voluntary Certification for Installers................................................................9 2.6 Warranties........................................................................................................................9 2.7 Cost Analysis................................................................................................................. 12 3.0 PRODUCTS RESEARCHED............................................................................ ............ 12 3.1 Open Energy...................................................................................................... 3.2 BP Solar......................................................................................................................... 13 3.3 Sharp Electronics Corporation....................................................................................... 13 3.4 Sanyo.............................................................................................................................. 14 4.0 LOCAL INSTALLERS ..................14 14 4.1 Sierra Solar Systems.............................................................. ...................................... 15 4.2 Solar Windworks """'............................................................. 4.3 Tahoe Solar Design........................................................................................................ 15 4.4 Sun Power Construction................................................................................................ 16 4.5 Premier Power Renewable Energy ................. 16 ............................................................... 5.0 LIMITATIONS TO RESEARCH......................................................................................17 5.1 Limited Time Frame...................................................................................................... 17 5.2 Lack of Expertise........................................................................................................... 18 18 5.3 Geographical Location...................................................................... 6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ........... """18 ..................................................... 6.1 Property Owners............................................................................................................ 18 6.2 Truckee Donner Public Utility District..........................................................................20 7.0 RESOURCES CITED................................................................................................ GLOSSARY/ACRONYMS APPENDICES APPENDIX A TDPUD Questionnaire APPENDIX B Town of Truckee Snow Load Information APPENDIX C CEC Partial List of Approved Products and PTC Rating System APPENDIX D Product Information APPENDIX E Installer Information Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Team Goal in Project The project team was united with a common goal of environmental awareness and the need for use of renewable energy sources in our area. Upon our initial efforts to establish a "measurable indicator", we were overwhelmed with the amount of information available and vast nature of the term "renewable energy". In an effort to narrow our research and produce a product that could be used by a local government agency, we contacted the Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) and discovered a need for information about solar energy systems in residential structures. Our TDPUD contacts, Steve Hallebaugh and Alan Harry, directed our attention to Senate Bill 1 (SB 1, the California Solar Initiative) and the need for information regarding solar products. Solar power is our indicator and our team's goal, "Go Solar Get Rebate", is to provide TDPUD with information regarding solar power products that can be used in new and existing residential structures. 1.2 Senate Bill 1 Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), also know as the California Solar Initiative, was signed into law on August 21, 2006. This initiative was put into place to encourage residential and business rate payers to install solar energy systems (aka photovoltaic (PV) systems) through rebates and opportunities to offset part or all of the consumer's own electricity demand. S131 requires each local publicly owned electric utility (LPOEU), "on or before January 1, 2008, to adopt, implement, and finance a solar initiative program" for the purpose of "investing in, and encouraging the increased installation of, residential and commercial solar energy systems." In addition SB1 imposes a state-mandated local program and requires that each LPOEU make certain program information available to its customers. In this way interested members of the public (typically the rate payers) along with the LPOEU will establish "eligibility criteria for solar energy systems receiving ratepayer funded incentives." SB1 establishes eight (8) requirements for the system incentives which include: 1. Design, installation, and electrical output standards 2. Purpose of the incentives (to offset part or all of the consumer's own electricity demand), 3. That the components of each system must be new—not previously used 4. The warranty of the system must be at least 10 years 5. The PV system must be located at the residence or business getting the incentives 6. The PV system must be connected to the LPOEU in the State of California (i.e., a "grid- tied" system) 7. The PV system must have meters which monitor and measure performance of the system, and the quantity of electricity generated 8. The PV system must be installed according to applicable specifications and codes Since the rebates will be funded by the rate payers, the California Energy Commission established conditions on the incentives developed by the LPOEU, which include installation and optimal solar energy system performance guidelines as well as the requirement of appropriate improvements in energy efficiencies when a PV system is installed. Each LPOEU is tasked with making S131's goal of installing 3,000 megawatts of PV solar energy in California within 10 years. SB1's monetary incentives are set at a minimum of $2.80 per installed watt; this incentive declines no less than 7% each year. Each LPOEU must determine its share of the State coal. The public proceeding's purpose is to support SB1's goal and to determine if additional incentives are necessary to reach this goal. The public process and the comprehensive solar energy program must be completed by January 1, 2008. Section 387.5 (e) of SB1 establishes reporting requirements. To fulfill these reporting requirements the LPOEU cannot use funds earmarked for low-income ratepayers, cost-effective Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 1 energy efficiency or other demand response programs. The requirements for each LPOEU includes reporting to its customers, the Legislature and to the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission the following results for the past year: • The number of PV watts installed • Total number of PV systems installed • Total number of applicants • The amount of incentives awarded • Contribution toward program goals S131 established a maximum expenditure level for the state of $784,000,000; each LPOEU's maximum expenditure level is relative to its electricity load compared to the state load for all LPOEUs. A LPOEU's expenditures may be less if its funding adequately fulfills the required incentives. Net metering is described as an incentive to "encourage substantial private investment in renewable energy resources, stimulate in-state economic growth, reduce demand for electricity during peak consumption periods, help stabilize California's energy supply infrastructure, enhance the continued diversification of California's energy resource mix, and reduced interconnection and administrative costs for electricity suppliers." Net metering therefore must be made available to qualified customer-generators on a "first-come-first-served basis" and does not have to be given after customer-generators exceed 2.5% of the LPOEU's aggregate customer peak demand. S61 states that net metering calculates the difference between the electricity supplied to the eligible customer-generator and the electricity generated by the eligible customer-generator which is fed back to the electric grid over a 12-month period. The rules for annualized net metering calculation can be found in S61 at SEC 6. Section 2827 (h). The LPOEU must provide net electricity consumption information with every regular bill but does not need to pay for excess power generated on a monthly basis; the customer can pay for net energy consumed on a monthly basis. Every 12 months the LPOEU will calculate the net short- fall or excess energy generated. If excess energy has been generated by the eligible customer- generator, compensation will be made only if there is a purchase agreement with the LPOEU. This is not meant to be a complete disclosure of S131 but instead is meant to highlight some of the requirements and guidelines. For a complete report of S61 see htt ://www.l:,e info ca qov/cub/05-06/bill/sen/sb 0001-0050/sb 1 bill 20060821 tml 1.3 Truckee Donner Public Utility District The Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) offers electric and water service in the Truckee area. They are a non-profit, publicly owned utility governed by officials elected by the registered voters of the District. All the benefits of public power remain in the District in the form of reliable electric service and high quality water at fair, reasonable prices. According to TDPUD, "The Mission of Truckee Donner Public Utility District is to provide adequate, reliable and high quality water and electrical power services, and to manage District resources in an open, responsible, environmentally sound manner at the lowest practical cost. In pursuing this Mission, the District will actively seek renewable energy sources as set forth in it Renewable Portfolio Standard". TDPUD purchases its energy through bilateral contracts with entities outside the Truckee area. Power is brought to the District's four substations and one metering point over Sierra Pacific Power Company's transmission system. it is then distributed over the District's fifteen individual circuits to approximately 12,100 electric customers. Energy sources that the TDPUD utilizes Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 2 include eligible renewable sources (such as geothermal and small hydroelectric), coal, large hydroelectric and natural gas. Our team developed a questionnaire to learn more about Senate Bill 1 and how the TDPUD will incorporate the new law into current practices. A copy of the questionnaire and corresponding answers provided by the TDPUD is included in Appendix A of this report. 1.4 Photovoltaic Products and The Grid Photovoltaic (PV) products are systems that use the sun's energy to create electricity. PV products are solar power technology that uses solar cells to produce direct current electricity by the interaction between sunlight and the semiconductor materials in a cell. A residential PV power system enables a homeowner to generate some or all of their daily electrical energy demand. A typical residential solar system consists of four components: Solar Modules, an Inverter, a Monitor and the Electric Meter. Solar Modules collect the sun's energy and convert it into electricity. Based on the electricity requirements, the appropriate number of modules are connected to form a rooftop or other mounted array. The Inverter converts the electricity from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) for use in the home. The Monitor allows the homeowner to view the status and performance of their system and the Electric Meter displays net power usage. installation Options There are several ways to install a PV array at a residence. Consideration should also be given for access to the system. This access space can add up to 20% of needed Yaks area to the mounting area required. . h Mounted Systems The mounted systems are designed for maximum strength and ease of installation. Mounting racks are designed by the area of the module(s) to be mounted, not necessarily by the number of module(s). Since most racks are module specific and not universal, then the number of parts can be reduced, simplifying the installation and assembly. However, it is crucial that the mounting rack is designed to accommodate the PV system you are considering installing. Most mounted systems are constructed of heavy gauge steel with fully welded caps. Hardened bolts are used to lock the mounting sleeve to the pole. Additional information regarding mounted systems can be found at www power-fab.com . Mounted systems can either be mounted on the roof or on the ground. Ground mounted systems can be further broken down into either top-of-pole mounted or side-of-pole mounted. Roof Mounted Often the most convenient and appropriate place to put the PV array is on the roof of the building. The PV array may be mounted above and parallel to the roof surface with a standoff of several inches for cooling purposes. These systems have the advantage that the roof hardly needs to be disturbed to install them, making them the best choice for installations for some existing properties. However, proper roof mounting can be labor intensive, and particular attention must be paid to the roof structure and the weather sealing of roof penetrations. Most roof mounted installation systems offer fixing units and fixing anchors for various module construction types and for various types of roof coverings. Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 3 Ground Mounted Top-of-Pole mounted The PV array is mounted on the top of a pole buried in the ground, to a sufficient depth to provide structural stability. The height of the PV array must be designed to be above snow depths and/or vegetation. Side-of-Pole mounted The PV array is mounted via a bracket system, on the side of a pole buried in the ground, to a sufficient depth to provide structural stability. The height of the PV array must be designed to be above snow depths and/or vegetation. Building Integrated PV Array (BIPV) Systems Another type of installation for PV systems is a Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) system, which consists of integrating PV modules into the building envelope, such as the roof or the facade. BIPV systems can become an integral part of the building, often serving as the exterior weather skin or the roofing material. By simultaneously serving as building envelope material and a power generator, BIPV systems can provide savings in materials and electricity costs, reduce use of fossil fuels and emission of ozone depleting gases, and add architectural interest to the building. Commercially available products currently include roof tiles and standing seam metal roofing products. In BIPV applications different types of modules, depending on the application, can be used: classic (framed) modules, flexible crystalline or thin-film on metal substrate, roof-tiles with solar cells, and other modules. Reference: Whole Building Design Guide website, http•/Iwww wbdq org/design/bipv.php, and Greenpeace Energy website, http//www pvresources corn/en/bipven.php. Roof Tile Systems Solar Roof Tiles are designed to blend with regular roof tiles. PV the installation is as easy as installing a standard roof tile. Designed to match the profile of concrete roofing tiles, PV Tiles blend into the roof in size, shape and color. These Solar electric tiles provide power by converting sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity. The DC power is then fed into an inverter to produce standard utility-grade electricity. This type of system should be installed by qualified personnel only. The system involves electricity, and can be dangerous if the personnel are not familiar with the product. Before installing the solar system, be sure to contact your local utility and building department to determine the necessary permit, installation and inspection requirements. Grid Tied Systems If excess power is produced during a month, a power credit is carried forward to be used during a month when more 9 ur` power is used than produced. With a net metering system, the system uses the power company like a battery, "storing" excess power with 100% efficiency, unlike ordinary batteries _ , that lose power during charging, storage, and discharge. In addition, the inverters used with these systems employ "maximum power point tracking (MPPT)technology", a new, more efficient mode of operation that allows the solar �s modules to operate at their "maximum power point," allowing far more of the power that is produced to be used or sold to the power company (up to 95%). Because of increased efficiency, net metering systems allow the solar array to deliver more power with less modules, substantially reducing system cost. Elimination of the battery bank also results in substantial savings, as well as reduced maintenance and replacement costs. These systems are modular and can be easily Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 4 expanded in the future. Grid-tied solar systems are popping up all over California as homeowner's and businesses are realizing the incentives to go solar. 1.5 Why Go Solar? Why go solar? Every day, massive amounts of energy from the Sun blanket our planet. At the Earth's orbit, neglecting absorption by the atmosphere, each square meter of area facing the Sun receives about 1380 joules per second (nearly 2 horsepower); this quantity is known as the solar constant. Solar energy can play a key role in creating a clean, renewable, reliable energy future for our community, region, state, country, and planet. Here are a few of the many reasons to consider harnessing this solar energy for use in your home: 1. A PV system reduces, or can completely eliminate, the amount of electricity you have to purchase from your utility or electric service provider. 2. A PV system can save you money on your electric bill and act as a hedge against future price increases. urce in a time when energy brownouts and 3. PV power can be a reliable energy so blackouts are becoming more prevalent. 4. You help your community by reducing the electricity demand and provide additional electricity for the grid when you generate more than you use during the day, when this demand is highest. 5. Using solar energy produces immediate environmental benefits. Electricity is often produced by burning fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas. The combustion of these fuels releases a variety of pollutants into the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (COA sulfur dioxide (SOA and nitrogen oxide (NO,), which create acid rain and smog. Carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels is a significant component of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions could significantly alter the world's environment and lead to the global warming predicted by most atmospheric scientists. The combustion of fossil fuels releases more than 6 billion tons of carbon into the atmosphere each year. The United States alone is responsible for 23 percent of these emissions. Clean energy sources, such as solar energy, can help meet rising energy demands while reducing pollution and preventing damage to the environment and public health at the same time. Solar energy is an excellent alternative to fossil fuels for many reasons: It is clean energy. Even when the emissions related to solar cell manufacturing are counted, photovoltaic generation produces less than 15 percent of the carbon dioxide from a conventional coal-fired power plant. Using solar energy to replace the use of traditional fossil fuel energy sources can prevent the release of pollutants into the atmosphere. ■ Using solar energy to supply a million homes with energy would reduce CO2 emissions by 4.3 million tons per year, the equivalent of removing 850,000 cars from the road. ■ Solar energy uses fewer natural resources than conventional energy sources. Using energy from sunlight can replace the use of stored energy in natural resources such as petroleum, natural gas, and coal. Energy industry researchers estimate that the amount of land required for photovoltaic(PV) cells to produce enough electricity to meet all U.S. power needs is less than 60,000 square kilometers, or roughly 20 percent of the area of Arizona. ■ Solar energy is a renewable resource. Some scientists and industry experts estimate that renewable energy sources, such as solar, can supply up to half of the world's energy demand in the next 50 years, even as energy needs continue to grow. Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 5 Source: Montana Green Power website, http://www,.montanagreenpower.com/solar/index.htmi, and Educational Web Sites on Astronomy, Physics, Spaceflight and the Earth's Magnetism, http: 'www phy6 orq/stargazelSun7enra.htm. 2.0 RESEARCH CRITERIA The criteria we used for our research included local vendors and installers within a 100-mile radius of the Tahoe-Truckee area, wattage and sunlight needs, snow load limitations, California Energy Commission (CEC) rating system, California licensing requirements for installers, warranties, and cost analysis, as described below. 2.1 Local Vendors and Installers One of the first facts we discovered during our research was that most of the PV system products and vendors were not located in California, but rather Arizona and Colorado. We researched local vendors and installers within a 100 mile radius of the Tahoe-Truckee area in an attempt to collect accurate information that is unique to our mountain climate and snow loads. We also used this criteria to help reduce costs associated with shipping and travel. 2.2 Wattage, Sunlight and Snow Load Criteria The following criteria were used to assist in researching the correct products that would be useful to our geographic area: Average Watts Used in Truckee According to Alan Harry of TDPUD, in 2006 the average home located in the TDPUD service area used 761 kilowatthours (kwh) per month. More detailed information regarding wattage of products is included in the following Section 3.0 of this report. Hours of Sunlight Shading of the solar electric system is potentially the most critical problem to avoid over the life of the system to ensure high performance. Shading can be caused by 1) obstructions that exist at the time of the installation of the system or 2) obstructions that occur through the maturation of trees or the subsequent construction of neighboring structures. To protect California's investment in solar systems and to ensure homeowners get what they paid for, it is critical to avoid both types of obstructions. The "minimal shading" criterion is designed to do this. The "minimal shading" criterion is that no obstruction is closer than a distance ("D") of twice the height("H") it extends above the PV modules. Any obstruction that projects above any portion of the PV array must meet this criterion for the PV array to be considered minimally shaded. Obstructions that are subject to this criterion include any vent, chimney, architectural feature, mechanical equipment or other obstruction that projects above the roof of the residential building with the installed solar system, any part of the neighboring terrain that projects above the roof of the residential building, any tree that is mature at the time of installation of the solar system or any tree that is planted or planned to be planted as part of the landscaping for the residential building (the expected performance calculation must be based on the expected mature height of any tree planted or planned to be planted as part of the landscaping for the residential building), any existing or planned residential building or other structure neighboring the residential building with the solar system and any telephone or other utility pole that is closer than thirty feet from the nearest point of the array. See Appendix 4 of the NSHP Guidebook for more information about how to meet the "minimal shading" criterion and how to account for shading that fails to meet the "minimal shading" criterion in the expected performance calculation. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 6 Snow Load Criteria A snow load is a measurement of the weight of the heaviest snow load likely to occur in a two month period in a certain region. Most roof systems are designed to carry a dead load of 20 pounds per square foot. In localized areas of some snow-belt regions, snow loads of 150 pounds per square foot are not uncommon. Ground snow loads in the Tahoe Basin range from 223 psf to 403 psf depending on the elevation. Typical snow loads in the Town of Truckee are located in the Appendix, as an excerpt from the Town of Truckee "Permit Handbook for Single Family Residential Construction". More detailed information regarding snow load criteria from the Town of Truckee is included in Appendix B of this report. Snow loads in the Town of Truckee are based on two factors; the elevation a structure is located at, and the roof pitch of the structure. Roof snow loads may be considerably lower depending on roof pitch and exposure. Roof pitch is the slope of the roof surface generally expressed in inches of vertical "rise" per 12 inches of horizontal distance "run". (example: written as 4/12 or said as " 4 inch rise per 12 inch run " or simply"four twelve or four in twelve"). In the figure at left,the roof rises 4"for every 12" of horizontal run, hence a 4/12 pitch, aka "four twelve" or"four in twelve". In the second figure, a roof with a 12/12 pitch is _ shown. Source: Town of Truckee, Permit Handbook for Single Family Residential Construction, Appendix A—Municipal Code Chapter 15" http:/lwww townoftruckee.com/handbook.htm1. 2.3 California Energy Commission PTC Rating System The California Energy Commission (CEC) provides a rebate to customers that install PV systems. The rebate is predicted upon final AC watts, since these AC watts ultimately determine how much useable electricity comes out of the system. In order to determine what a solar module is capable of in the real world, the CEC conducts studies on the many different modules using criteria for dust, wiring losses, module mismatch, weather, and other related factors. The results of the studies are published on their website, hftp://www.consumerenerqycenter.or . The terminology used by the CEC can be confusing, but is better understood by the following definitions: • STC DC Watts — The nameplate rating of a solar module; Standard Test Conditions (STC). • PTC DC Watts —The rating of the module in real world conditions as determined by the CEC; Performance Test Conditions (PTC). • CEC AC Watts—The total PTC DC of solar modules factoring in inverter efficiency. This is the number that the rebate is based on. 7 Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program When a solar modules nameplate states 175 watts, this means that in perfect conditions, the module will produce 175 watts of power. In controlled conditions, a manufacturer will measure how much power comes out of a module by using specialized instrumentation. This measurement is defined as the Standard Test Conditions (STC) and is the nameplate rating known as STC watts. When the CEC conducts a study on a module, they revise the STC watts based on performance, or better known as Performance Test Conditions (PTC). For example, a Sharp ND-205U1 module has a STC of 205 watts. Following a CEC study, the watt is revised to 180.6 PTC watts. All of the power generated from the solar modules is converted from Direct Current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC). This conversion is performed by the inverter, which has its own efficiency rating. Like solar modules, the CEC has efficiency ratings they use. A typical example of how the rating system works is shown in the following: A copy of the partial list of approved products and CEC ratings for these products are included in Appendix C of this report. Example, 18 Shell 175 watt modules and a PV Powered 2800-XV inverter. The 175 watt modules are rated at 158.3 watts (PTC). 18 modules multiplied by 158.3 equals 2,849 watts. The PV Powered 2800-XV inverter has an efficiency rating of 94.5 percent, thus the AC size of this system would be 2,692, or 2,849 multiplied by 0.945. The CEC will then determine the rebate amount on the current rebate level multiplied by the AC watts, as shown below: • Module Nameplate Watts (STC Watts) = 175 • Total STC Watts= 3150 • PTC Rating for each module = 158.3 • Total PTC = 2849 • Inverter Efficiency = 94.5% • CEC AC Watts = 2692 • Rebate Amount= $7,000 Source: "Unlimited Energy — Understanding STC, PTC, and CEC AC Watts" (http://unlimited — energy-com/content/view/l 10/82). The CEC list of approved products contains over 100 items and associated ratings. For the purposes of this report, we included only those products that were researched during this study. A copy of the partial list of approved products and CEC ratings for each product are included in Appendix C of this report. 2.4 California Licensing Requirements for Installers The California Business and Professions Code (Division 3, Chapter 9. Contractors, Article 4) has three classifications for contractors that practice business in the state: General Engineering Contracting, General Building Contracting, and Specialty Contracting. A general engineering contractor is a contractor whose principal contracting business is in connection with fixed works requiring specialized engineering knowledge and skill and is in connection with any structure built, being built, or to be built, for the support, shelter, and enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, or movable property of any kind, requiring in its construction the use of at least two unrelated building trades or crafts, or to do or superintend the whole or any part thereof. A specialty contractor is a contractor whose operations as such are the performance of construction work requiring special skill and whose principal contracting business involves the use of specialized building trades or crafts. Solar contractors are considered a type of specialty contractor. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 8 A solar contractor (C-46 designation) installs, modifies, maintains, and repairs active solar energy systems. An active solar energy system consists of components which are thermally isolated from the living space for collection of solar energy and transfer of thermal energy to provide electricity and/or heating and cooling of air or water. Active solar energy systems include, but are not limited to, forced air systems, forced circulation water systems, thermosiphon systems, integral collector/storage systems, radiant systems, evaporative cooling systems with collectors, regenerative rockbed cooling systems, photovoltaic cells, and solar assisted absorption cooling systems. A licensee classified in this section shall not undertake or perform building or construction trades, crafts or skills, except when required to install an active solar energy system. Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) requires that solar systems be installed by C-46 contractors to qualify for a rebate program. Z5 National Voluntary Certification for Installers The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) solar thermal installer certification is a voluntary certification that provides a set of national standards by which solar thermal installers with skills and experience can distinguish themselves from their competition. Certification provides a measure of protection to the public by giving them a credential for judging the competency of practitioners. It is not intended to prevent qualified individuals from installing solar thermal systems nor to replace state licensure requirements. The target candidate for NABCEP certification is the person responsible for the system installation (e.g., contractor, foreman, supervisor, or journeyman). The NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certification has been developed in accordance with the certification field's best practices. NABCEP is a member of the National Organization for Competencv Assurance (NOCA) and has endeavored to follow the requirements of ISO/IEC Standard 17024: General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification Systems of Persons. To be eligible for NABCEP solar PV installer certification, candidates must first meet these basic requirements: 1. Be at least 18 years of age 2. Meet prerequisites of related experience and/or education 3. Complete an application form documenting requirements 4. Sign a code of ethics 5. Pay applicable fees 6. Pass a written exam Among other primary goals, the NABCEP is dedicated to the implementation of appropriate professional standards designed to protect consumers and the profession. NABCEP certificants and candidates are expected to act in an appropriate manner, which promotes the integrity of, and reflects positively on, the practitioner, the NABCEP, and the renewable energy profession, consistent with accepted moral, ethical, and legal standards. NABCEP is a member of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) and has endeavored to follow the requirements of ISO/IEC Standard 17024: General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification System of Persons. 2.6 Warranties Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) requires a minimum 10-year full-system warranty against defective parts, workmanship, or unusual degradation of output(performance)to qualify for a rebate program. Most of the products we researched come with a 20 to 25 year warranty for panels for an 80 percent operation. What this means is that after the 20 to 25 year life of a panel, the panel will not be completely dysfunctional, but will operate at 80 percent capacity. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 9 Most inverters, monitors and electric meters come with a 5 to 10 year warranty, so replacement of these components will be more frequent than the panels, which comprise most of the cost of the systems. 2.7 Cost Analysis The "Go Solar' website has a number of calculators, one of them called CECPV Calculator Version 2, which assist a potential PV user to determine the time dependent valuation (TDV) production and the amount of California Energy Commission (CEC) incentive. The calculator uses a model, developed at the University of Wisconsin, which takes into account the type of system, the location of the PV system (City in California), the roof slope, and distance the solar panels are from the roof. A lay person that doesn't know any of this information can run a test simulation. Known data can be entered and the calculator will choose the type of equipment and other technical criteria. The calculator is easily downloaded from the "Go Solar' website at http://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/in )rmation/calculator.htmi. Another calculator found at "Go Solar' is Find Solar.com which gives you an idea of price, savings and system size; http://www.findsolar.com/index.php?paae=rightforme This calculator does not have to be downloaded and is easy to use. You will need to input your electric use information; the calculator will tell you the solar system capacity required, the roof area needed, installation cost, increase in property value and estimated Return on Investment(ROI). Most PV system designers and installers can also give you estimates of rebates and system output when they are designing your system. Additionally, these professionals will know the technical requirements and will be able to determine the optimum energy results you will experience. Cost and return on investment are important considerations when deciding to make an investment. One of the goals of SB1 is to make rebates available for PV systems; minimum rebates are $2.80 per installed watt. Also, at this time a maximum Federal tax credit of $2,000 is also available (See form and instructions at http'//www irs gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5695.pdf for IRS form 5695). According to Alan Harry with Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD), in 2007 the average home located in the TDPUD service area used 761 kilowatthours (kwh) per month, which costs $1,096 per year. If a household uses 9,132 kwh/year (761 kwh/month) it would need to install a PV system that is rated at 6,000 installed watts. The average cost of a PV system is $9.00 to $10.00 per installed watt. Homeowners need not install a PV system that would cover most of their electric energy requirement. According to Alan Harry a PV system which supplies 5% to 15% is beneficial. The matrix below shows the annual savings, total cost, payments and cost of capital for a PV system that supplies 100%, 50%, 40% and 25% of the average residential electrical requirement. In this scenario there is no rebate credit or Federal tax credit. 10 Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Table 1: PV System Costs without SIB 1 Rebate Credit or Federal Tax Credits Annual cost per Cost Annual Annual Annual Installed Installed Total Loan of Monthly Annual Total % Savin s kwh Watts Watt Cost TermCa ital Pmt Pmt Interest 30 100% $1,096 9,132 6,088 10 $60,880 Yrs 5% $327 $3,924 $56,774 15 50% $548 4,566 3,044 10 $30,440 Yrs 5% $241 $2,892 $12,900 15 40% $438 3,653 2,435 10 $24,352 Yrs 5% $192 $2,304 $10,300 15 25% $274 2,283 1,522 10 $15,220 Yrs 5% $120 $1,440 $6,444 S131 rebates make the purchase of,a PV system much more affordable, as shown in the matrix below, saving 28% of the total cost(Federal tax credits are not included in this analysis). Table 2: PV System Costs including SIB 1 Rebate Credit and No Federal Tax Credits Annual Total Annual Installed Rebate Net Watts Cost Cost 100% 6,088 $60,880 $17.046 $43,834 50% 3,044 $30,440 $8,523 $21,917 40% 2,435 $24,352 $6,819 $17,533 25% 1,522 $15,220 $4,262 $10,958 Taking into consideration the 28% rebate savings, monthly payments and interest are decreased considerably as shown below. Table 3: PV System Costs including SIB 1 Rebate Credit and No Federal Tax Credits Annual Cost per Cost Loan Cost Monthly Annual Total Annual Annual Annual Installed Installed after Term of Pmt Pmt Interest % Savings kwh Watts Watt Rebate Ca ital 30 100% $1,095.84 9,132 6,088 $10.00 $43,834 15 5% $235 $2,820 $40,887 50% $547.92 4,566 3,044 $10.00 $21,917 15 5% $173 $2,076 $9,280 40% $438.34 3,653 2,435 $10.00 $17,533 Yrs 5% $69 $828 $3,700 $300 25% $273.96 2,283 1,522 $10.00 $10,958 Yrs 5% $41 $492 Even with SB1's rebate current electricity savings would not pay for the installation of a PV system in the short term. Additional considerations including higher interest rates, longer financing terms and increased property values are not included in the above analysis. It is difficult to know how much electricity will increase in the future. Electricity rates have increased 6.7% per year for 30 years according to CPUC "Electric Rate Compendium", November 2001. According to Alan Harry "TDPUD annual rates have increased 1.96% per kilowatt hour over the last 20 years." Although past experience is not an indicator of future costs, this increase is considerably less than CPUC's increases. Additional rate increases may be tied to demand and lack of resources. If rates increased substantially, installation of a PV Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 11 system with present dollar values would have a better return on investment due to higher annual electric savings. An additional consideration not included in this analysis is the increased market value of a house with an efficiently operating PV system compared to a home without a PV system. Some of the purchase and installation cost may be recovered when the house is sold. For a more detailed financial analysis see "Payback and other Financial Tests for Solar on Your Home" by Andy Black; http://www.findsolar.com/pdfs/solar_payback.pdf. CECPV Calculator Version 2 The products we researched are used by local installers discussed in Section 4.0 of this report. More detailed product information is included in Appendix D of this report. The following are brief descriptions of the products researched during this study along with corresponding contact information. The North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 2007 is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the following products discussed in this section. The MS Excel interface to the calculation engine is provided by the Energy Commission for download, which allows the user to select PV modules and inverters from a library of equipment eligible under the new NSHP requirements. Please check back on this website periodically for updated libraries of equipment as they are added to the eligibility list. The user interface is simplified to ease the input process and generates the estimated monthly production from the specified systems along with the annual TDV production and incentive ($) as calculated by the Expected Performance Based Incentive approach outlined in the NSHP Guidebook. The generation of the electronic from htt //wvvw!s a work in osalar al forn ag aSs and ov/iafor'll be incled in an mat on/cauculator.html upcoming update. Reference 3.0 PRODUCTS RESEARCHED The products we researched are used by local installers discussed in Section 4.0 of this report. More detailed product information is included in Appendix D of this report. The following are brief descriptions of the products researched during this study along with corresponding contact information. The North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 2007 is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the following products companies discussed in this section. 3.1 Open Energy This product is PV glass roofing tiles that can handle up to 240lbs of snow load. These tiles can be installed in new homes or integrated with a flat tile roof. These tiles are strong enough to be walked e e install you will sale from work 'th a roofer or a Eagle Roofing and aower installer. A solar power installer can can purchase the roofing purchase the roofing tiles wholesale from DC Power. These PV roofing tiles utilize high efficiency monocrystalline cells and are designed to blend seamlessly with commonly used cement tiles and can be flashed to integrate with other types of roofing materials. These tiles are available in black, red, brown, blue and grey. The wholesale cost for roofing tiles is around $200.00 for a three square foot section. The cost may vary depending on your setup. The cost for PV the installed can range from $8 to $12 per watt. The output from these tiles ranges from 1000 watts to 1150 watts per 100 square foot section. An average house needs a 6000 watt system which means you will need 600 square feet of roofing tiles.waft he system wholesale is $48,000.00 to $72 000.00.system is Open$Ene goy offers ha installed cost fora 6000 25-Year warranty on 80% power output. 12 Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Contact Information: www openenergYcarp.com Mark Bettis, Sales 650-740-1496 com 1415 Wispering Pines Lane, Suite 150 Grass Valley, CA 95945 3.2 BP Solar BP Solar Modules use single- or multi-crystalline modules and can be securely mounted to almost any kind of roof. BP Solar systems also come with a monitor. This is a wireless in- house display which communicates with the solar system to provide a digital readout. The information from this readout includes; • How much electricity your system is producing • How much electricity your house is using • Solar intensity • The cumulative electricity production of the system BP Solar modules are backed by a 25 year limited warranty. The Cost for a BP Solar system installed is $51,000.00 for 6,000 watts. The electricity production from the 6,000 watt system is 751 kilowatt hours per month or 9,020 kilowatt hours annually. Contact Information: www 301-698-4200 or Home Depot 800-632-1111 630 Solarex Court Frederick, Maryland 21703 3.3 Sharp Electronics Corporation Sharp Electronics Corporation (Sharp) has over 45 years of research and development in the field of solar power technology. Sharp makes PV glass roofing tiles that can integrate with concrete roofing tiles. Sharp also makes PV modules, in a range of wattages and efficiencies. The output from these PV modules range from 72 to 208 watts, and efficiencies range from 12.3% to 13.8%. The wide variety of products Sharp makes can integrate with many different roof shapes, energy applications, and weather conditions. Sharp should be contacted directly to find the product best suited for your application, and to find a Sharp Authorized Installer. Sharp's PV roofing tiles and modules utilize high efficiency poly-crystalline silicon solar cells. Bypass diodes minimize the power drop caused by shade. The warranty period for material defects and workmanship is one year from date of purchase. The warranty period with 90% at m minimum rated power output and the balance ofo power output continues for a total of 25 years r om date of years purchase, the first 10 15 years at 80% minimum rated power output. Sharp offers an "EZ Calculator" that utilizes your zip code and current electric bill to create a solar system simulation, to estimate the value of your solar power system. Costs for Sharp PV systems range from KW 00/ tWo 8 d0ra/nge from $42 000 t $48 OOO.n average home uires 6 KW (6000 watts), then the cost forasystem Contact Information: To find the location of the nearest Sharp Authorized Dealer, call Sharp toll free at 1-800- SOLAR06 (1-800-765-2706), sharpsolar@sharpusa.com 5901 Bolsa Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 13 Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Warranty info: Sharp Electronics Corporation Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, New Jersey, 07430-2135 www sharpusa.com/solar 3.4 Sanyo The SANYO HIT (Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin layer) solar cell is composed of a single thin crystalline silicon wafer surrounded by ultra-thin amorphous silicon layers. This product provides industry-leading performance and value using state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. HIT N series are lead free. HIT solar cell modules minimize the impact on the environment i nth itfuture. There is a very high conversion efficiency of HIT photovoltaic modules, possible to install more capacity compared to other conventional HIT photovoltaic modules. The cost of these units is about $4.30 per watt and come in various sizes. A typical panel is 52"x35" and produces 200 watts ($860). To install these Sanyo Hit panels on a typical home costs stem would approximately to $6 per watt. A typical home uses about 0 watts, that an costt $55 800 to $61 800. Sanyo offe s a25-yea00 rwarantyg averageasystem their products. Contact Information: Sanyo HIT: www.sanyo.com Sanyo Energy (U.S.A.) Corporation Tel. 1-469-362-5600 Fax. 1-469-362-5698 salar(cr�sec.sanyo.com 4.0 LOCAL INSTALLERS Our group wanted to identify local installers due to our concerns about sustainability, supporting local economic development, and to utilize their knowledge of the local area. The following is a description of four local vendors that we researched within a 100 mile radius of the Tahoe- Truckee area. More detailed installer information is included in Appendix E of this report. The North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 2007 is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the following companies discussed in this section. 4.1 Sierra Solar Systems Sierra Solar Systems has been helping families and businesses across the globe to turn their dreams into realities for more than a quarter of a century. They have been in business for 27 years and their main installer has been an electrician for over 15 years. Sierra Solar Systems is a company that is dedicated to providing all of the solar electric equipment necessary to provide power to your home, business, RV, or boat. They also carry a wide range of solar water pumps, energy efficient appliances, and renewable energy books and videos. Sierra Solar Systems also works with their customers to plan for future upgrades and/or expansions. All of their pre-packaged systems feature a central "power panel." Any power panel that is purchased with a single inverter can be upgraded by purchasing another identical inverter and DC breaker sometime in the future. Another charge controller and breaker can also be installed at a later date if you want to expand your PV array. PV arrays can be expanded by purchasing identical or equivalent modules. Contact Information: 563 Idaho Maryland Rd Grass Valley, CA 95959 Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 14 Toll Free: 888-ON-SOLAR Local: 530-273-6754 Email: solarion@sierrasolar.com www.sierrasolar.com California Contractors License: #480536 (Note: this license is shown as expired at the time of this report and a C-46 designation is not currently identified). P omm u, e.a ,dil - efs a M"Imm, Source: SiGBA Website, SiGBA Business Member's Pages, Renewable Energy Systems, htt //www.si ba.org/about/sigbabusinessmembe/renewablee ier s sisierrasolars stemsl. 4.2 Solar Windworks Solar Wind Works are installers out of Truckee. The PV products that Solar Wind Works use are GE Solar, BP Solar, Sanyo Solar, Sharp Solar, Shell Solar, Sunwize Solar, Uni-Solar, Evergreen Modules, Powerfilm Flexible Modules, Suntech Modules and Webel Modules. They will also consider installation of other solar products not in this list. Installation of a grid-tied PV solar system involves three phases and Solar Wind Works can do part or all of these phases for their clients. Phase one is the on site assessment/analysis. They look at shading issues and the current electrical configuration of the home. The cost for this analysis is $120.00. Phase two involves designing the appropriate system for the client. Lastly phase three is the installation. Most systems are between $10 and $12 per installed watt. This cost includes everything from solar panels and inverters to installation. Contact Information: 530-582-4503 toll free 877-682-4503 PO Box 2511 Truckee, CA 96160 www.SolarV\indWorks.com California Contractor's License: #796322 Nevada Contractor's License: #59288 4.3 Tahoe Solar Design Tahoe Solar Designs is a company dedicated to minimizing our impact on Earth. They specialize in solar electricity and hot water. They promote pollution free power. They design and install r heating Brett Land Leslieaa end alocatedlone oinvSou'th Lake Tahoe and c systems, solar hot wservice ater d a thecomple e systems Tahoe/Truckee Area. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program IS Contact Information: Tahoe Solar Designs Brett& Leslie 2255 Del Norte South Lake Tahoe, CA 98150 530-542-0780 California Contractor's License: #654204 Nevada Contractor's License: #0058631 4.4 Sun Power Construction Sun Power Construction is a California State Licensed solar contractor (CA License # 759837 C-46), and considered to >< be a "qualified installer" per SB 1. Sun Power Construction specializes in the design, sales and installation of Solar Electric Power Systems, Solar Domestic Hot Water, Solar Pool Heating and Solar Home Heating. Sun Power Construction provides quality installation and reliable service for all solar applications throughout California. Sun Power Construction's focus is reliability, technical excellence and superior customer service. Sun Power Construction specializes in remote location residential and commercial solar energy needs, but they are also versed in "grid-tied" systems. Sun Power Construction has been in business for seven (7) years, and their installers have = seventeen (17) years of experience. The employees of Sun Power Construction do all of the required installation work necessary for a PV system. Sun Power Construction works with all brands of PV products and will work with the property owner to choose the proper brand of PV product given the site location, type of installation, and amount of snow and/or wind loads. Sun Power Construction stands behind the manufacturer's warranties for the PV products and will adhere to warranty requirements of rebate programs, including those specified in SB1. Most of the residential PV systems cost from $9 to $11 per installed watt. Sun Power Construction belongs to the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) and the Sierra Green Building Association (SiGBA). Contact Information: Kevin Farrell P.O. Box 101 Truckee, CA 96160 Ph:(530)550-0770 Email: kevin@sunpowerconstruction.com www.sun owerconstrurtion.com Source: SiGBA Website, SiGBA Business Member's Pages, Systems, Renewable Energy http f/www sigba arq/about/sigbabusinessmembe/renewableenergysys/sunpawercanstructi/. 4.5 Premier Power Renewable Energy A leading provider of solar panel sales and installations in Northern California, Premier Power Renewable Energy started originally as a small subsidiary of Premier Homes. The demand for solar power systems became so great that the company branched out on its own and has been successfully providing solar power systems to homes and businesses. Growing day by day, Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 16 Premier Power continues to strive for excellence in providing alternative renewable energy for all Americans. In business since 1986, Premier Power specializes in evaluating their client's needs and finding the right turnkey solar power system to eliminate their electricity bills. From residential neighborhoods to large corporations and industries, Premier Power has made a difference in the energy bills of their clients. According to Premier Power purchasing a solar power system for your home is a big decision. You need to research solar power and find out if Free Electricity is right for you. Their website is a vast resource of decision making tools including Solar Feasibility Study and Solar Savings Calculator. In addition they are certified by the Northern America Board of Certified Solar Energy Practitioners. Contact Information: Phone: 877-939-0400 Headquarters: Regional Office: 4961 Windplay Drive, Suite 100 10580 N. McCarran Blvd. Suite 115#352 El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Reno, NV 89503 phone: (916) 939-0400 phone: (877) 939-0400 fax: (916) 939-0490 e-mail: infoppremierpower.com http://premier)ower.com/ California Contractors License: #831223 C-46 5.0 LIMITATIONS TO RESEARCH The primary goal and intent of this paper is to provide a usable source of information to the local public utility district regarding solar power products for installation on new and existing residential structures. In order to achieve this goal the project group conducted research on affecting legislation in order to ensure chosen products for research met general specifications and would be usable in local projects. The group then identified the availability of various types of PV products locally and the availability of local, licensed installers. During the research process the group encountered several barriers and limitations some of which are disclosed below. The conclusions presented in this paper are not intended to be all inclusive. 5.1 Limited Time Frame This research project was conducted as a graduation requirement for the North Lake Tahoe — Truckee Leadership Program between February and May 2006, and, therefore, was compiled in a limited amount of time. The group found an extensive amount of information available and in order to draw all inclusive results additional time and expertise from professionals within the field would be needed. The cost analysis did not consider many financial considerations such as the time value of money, various interest rates and amortization schedules, changes in property values, and increased energy rates. In addition, we did not consider ecological costs such as the value of a PV system to decrease reliability on non-renewable resources, pollution and recycle costs. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 17 5.2 Lack of Expertise The research group was formed from like minded individuals interested in researching sustainable methods of generating electricity in the Tahoe-Truckee area. This research was not conducted by experts in energy related fields; therefore, the members of the research team had to educate themselves, in a limited amount of time, on general concepts relating to PV systems and electricity generation in order to make fair assessments when conducting research on products and installers for presentation in this project. 5.3 Geographical Location Although the research identified several products and installers available to homeowners in the Tahoe-Truckee area the availability is limited. The group concentrated on products and installers available within a 100 mile radius who would be sensitive to local climate limitations and local terrain. 6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIONS The following are general conclusions and suggestions for property owners and the Truckee Donner Public Utility District, based on the limited research performed for the preparation of this paper. It is difficult to know how much electricity rates will increase in the future. Electricity rates have increased 6.7% per year for 30 years according to CPUC "Electric Rate Compendium" November 2001. According to Alan Harry "TDPUD annual rates have increased 1.96% per kilowatt hour over the last 20 years." Although past experience is not an indicator of future costs this increase is considerably less than CPUC's increases. Additional rate increases may be tied to demand and lack of resources. If rates increased substantially installation of a PV system with present dollar values would have a better return on investment due to higher annual electric savings. An additional consideration not included in this analysis is the increased market value of a house with an efficiently operating PV system compared to a home with out a PV system. Some of the purchase and installation cost may be recovered when the house is sold. For a more detailed financial analysis see "Payback and other Financial Tests for Solar on Your Home" by Andy Black; http://www.findsolar.com/pdfs/solar_payback.pdf . 6.1 Property Owners We suggest that property owners work with a licensed professional to design and install the PV system that is most appropriate for their residence or business. Additionally, property owners should meet with TDPUD officials if they have specific questions about the ramifications of SB 1 for their property, and how to receive a rebate. Property owners should also consider discussing the proposed PV system with a tax consultant, so as to receive the maximum tax credit(s) available. Below are some suggestions regarding design and installation of PV systems, as well as suggestions regarding the selection of a PV system designer and instal ler/contractor. Good Questions to Ask Solar Consultants 1. How long has the company been in business? 2. What organizations does the company belong to? 3. Do they hold a valid contractor's license? 4. Who is the manufacturer of the solar panel and inverter? 5. Does my equipment have a warranty? Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 18 6. Who installs the solar system? 7. Will my system be interconnected (aka "grid-tied")? 8. What is included in the price? Does the cost include extras? 9. Is there a rebate for the installation of solar on my home? 10. How do I apply for tax credits? 11. Is the proposed solar system reliable? 12.What does the system include? Basic Principles to Follow When Designing a Quality PV System 1. Select a packaged system that meets the owner's needs. Customer criteria for a system may include reduction in monthly electricity bill, environmental benefits, desire for backup power, initial budget constraints, etc. Size and orient the PV array to provide the expected electrical power and energy. 2. Ensure the roof area or other installation site is capable of handling the desired system size. 3. Specify sunlight and weather resistant materials for all outdoor equipment. 4. Locate the array to minimize shading from foliage, vent pipes, and adjacent structures. 5. Design the system in compliance with all applicable building and electrical codes. 6. Design the system with a minimum of electrical losses due to wiring, fuses, switches, and inverters. 7. Properly house and manage the battery system, should batteries be required. 8. Ensure the design meets local utility interconnection requirements. Basic Steps to Follow When Installing a PV System 1. Ensure the roof area or other installation site is capable of handling the desired system size. 2. If roof mounted, verify that the roof is capable of handling additional weight of a PV system. Augment roof structure as necessary. 3. Properly seal any roof penetrations with roofing industry approved sealing methods. 4. Install equipment according to manufacturers' specifications, using installation requirements and procedures from the manufacturers' specifications. 5. Properly ground the system parts to reduce the threat of shock hazards and induced surges. 6. Check for proper PV system operation by following the checkout procedures on the PV System Installation Checklist. 7. Ensure the design meets local utility interconnection requirements. 8. Have final inspections completed by the authority having jurisdiction and the utility (if required). Source: California Energy Commission, A Guide To Photovoltaic (PV) System Design and Installation", June 2001, httr)://www.enerc ca qov/reports/2001-09-04 500-01-020.PDF. What You Should Know Before You Hire a Contractor For information on what you should know before you hire a contractor, the California Contractors State License Board (http//www.cslb.ca,gov/) offers the following tips: 1. Don't pay more than 10 percent or$1,000, whichever is less, as a down payment. 2. Hire only licensed contractors and ask to see the license. 3. Don't hire the first contractor who comes along. 4. Don't rush into repairs, no matter how badly they are needed. 5. Verify the contractor's license at www.cslb.ca.gov or 1-800-321-2752 6. Don't pay cash, and don't let the payments get ahead of the work. 7. Get three bids, check references, and get a written contract. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 19 6.2 Truckee Donner Public Utility District We suggest that the Truckee Donner Public Utility District works with their rate payers to put together a solution that best meets the goals of SB 1 as well as the goals of the community. SB 1 requires that there be a minimum of one public hearing; however we suggest that the TDPUD have multiple public information workshops and meetings regarding SB 1. We suggest that public notices regarding the impacts of SB 1 be included in billing inserts, website postings, newspapers ads, and in the community calendar of the Sierra Sun. As a public agency, TDPUD must follow the minimum requirements for noticing public meetings, including Board and Committee meetings, such as the Electricity Advisory Committee. When the TDPUD sends information to their rate payers about SB 1 and its impacts, we recommend that the following items be communicated, per "The Six Stages of Communication During Change", as prepared by the California State University, Sacramento, Center for Collaborative Policy. 1. Discuss what the change actually is and when the change will be instituted. 2. Tell the constituents how the change will affect them—personally. Important information to convey should be what financial impacts SB 1 will have on each property owner in the TDPUD service area, including those who may not be able to install a PV system for various reasons. 3. Tell the constituents how to be part of the change/process. Inform them of the public information workshops and meetings. 4. Describe to the constituents why the change is a good idea and/or required. 5. Ask your constituents who else they think should be involved in the change. 6. Ask your constituents for ideas and suggestions to improve the idea (implementation of SB 1). The TDPUD has already done a lot of research and leg work to promote alternative energy sources in their service area; property owners considering a PV system should research their website www.tdi)ud.org and contact the TDPUD directly for additional questions. Additionally, the TDPUD has already created a Photovoltaic Interconnection Agreement for Net Energy Metering from Residential Solar-Electric Generating Facilities of 10 Kilowatts or Less" located on their website at http://www.td ud ora/pdf/photovoltaic°/o20interconnection,Appdx.A.odf. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 20 7.0 RESOURCES CITED 1. Utility with good educational information: a. Sacramento Municipal Utility District www.smud.org b. San Diego Regional Energy www.sdenerg +Lorg c. Truckee Donner Public Utility District http://www.tdpud.orco/ d. Northern California Power Agency http://www.agpa.c mm/ Joint power agency that provides support for electric utility operations for 17 member communities and districts in California. Owns and operates several power plants which comprise a 96% emission free generation portfolio. 2. Governmental regulatory or quasi governmental agencies: a. California Energy Commission www consu mere nergyicenter.org b. California Public Utilities Commission (PUC). http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/ c. California Solar Energy Industries Association www.calseia.org Help with S131 implementation d. Go Solar www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/ 3. Reference materials: a. SB 1 http://www.le info ca qov/pub/05-06lbill/sen/sb 0001- 0050/sb 1 bill 20060821 chaptered.html b. Public Utility Code http://www leginfo ca ovcL /cgi- bin/calawguery?codesection=puc&codebodv=&hits=20 c. PVWatt http://www.pvwatt.com/ i. A Consumer's Guide to Buying a Solar Electric System (PDF) Energy calculator d. Calculator for break-even analysis httD://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/information/calculator.html e. Solar Buzz— PV consulting firm has newsletters http//www.solarbuzz.com/ f. Northern California Solar Energy Association www.norcalsolar.org Has link to Solar Energy Resource Guide g. Town of Truckee, "Permit Handbook for Single Family Residential Construction, Appendix A— Municipal Code Chapter 15" http/lwww tawnoftruckee.cam/hand book.htm1. 4. Resource for installers: a. Sierra Pacific Power training list http//www solargenerations comlcontractors.html b. Northern American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) hftp://www.nabcep.org/ c. Find Solar.com —recommended by SMUD http://www.finds(olar.com/cgnlgnLP.hP 5. Installers: a. Solar Wind Works http://www,solarwindworks.com b. Sierra Solar Systems http//www.sierrasolar.com C. Sun Power Construction http'//www sunpawerconstruction.com d. Independent Power Corp http://www.ind Nercon).com/ e. Quantum Energy Group (MJD Solutions) http//www guantumenergygroup.com/ f. Pacific Power Management http://www.pacpower.biz 9. Premier Power http://Premierpower.cam/ Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 21 6. Magazines and other publications: a. Solar Today b. Home Power c. SiGBA's Green Resource Guide 7. Snow Load Definition Sources: • Strongwood Log Home Company web site http://www.strongwoodlo-ghome.com/Glossary.htm , accessed May 14, 2007 • TheMinnSNOWta Roof Razor web site http://www.minnsnowta.com/snowloading.html , accessed May 19, 2007 8. Roof Pitch Definition & Pictures Sources: • Morton Buildings, Inc. website http://www.mortonbuildin s comNal tip]nThe Detail s/Materials/RoofPitch.shtm , accessed May 14, 2007 • Excalibur Steel Structures website, "Language of Steel (aka Glossary)" http://www,.excalibursteel.com/-qlossar-y..h accessed May 14, 2007 Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 22 GLOSSARY/ACRONYMS AC Alternating Current—Electric current in which the direction of flow is reversed at frequent intervals. The most common type of household electricity. CEC California Energy Commission CPUC California Public Utility Commission CSI California Solar Initiative DC Direct Current—Electrical current that flows only in one direction. The most common form of electricity used in boats and RVs. Efficiency The ratio of output energy to input energy. Electric Current The flow of electrons measured in amps. Electricity The controlled flow of electrons through a conductor. Electric Meter A component of a solar system that displays net power usage. Energy Usable power. Measured in kilowatts per hour(kWh). Grid A distribution network, including towers, poles, and wires that a utility uses to deliver electricity. Grid-Tied System A solar system that is tied in to the utility's network. When generating more power than necessary, the system supplies the surplus to the grid. At night, the system draws power from the grid. Installed Watt The capacity (power)of a watt. Inverter Converts the electricity generated from a solar system from direct current (DC)to alternating current(AC)for use in the home. IOU Investor Owned Utilities Kilowatt A unit of electrical power, 1,000 Watts. Kilowatt-Hours(kwh) One thousand watts acting over a period of one hour. Measure of energy. LPOEU Local Publicly Owned Electric Utility Megawatt One million watts or 1,000 kilowatts. Module The layers of glass, plastic and silicon cells framed in metal, which collect the sun's energy. Monitor A component of a solar system that allows the homeowner to view the status and performance of their system. MPPT Maximum Power Point Tracking NABCEP North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Net Metering A practice used in conjunction with a solar electric system where your electric meter tracks your net power usage, spinning forward when you use electricity from the utility, and spinning backward when your system is generating more electricity than you need. NOCA National Organization for Competency Assurance NREL National Renewable Energy Laboratory Panel A term used to describe a solar module. Passive Solar Home A house that utilizes part of the building as a solar collector, as opposed to active solar, such as PV. Peak Load The largest amount of electricity being used at any one point during the day. POU Publicly Owned Utility (TDPUD is a POU) PTC Performance Test Conditions PV Photovoltaic—the conversion of light into electricity. Photo means"light" and voltaic means "electricity". Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 23 PV Cell Made from silicon, this is the basic unit of a solar module that collects the sun's energy. PV System A complete set of components that converts sunlight into usable energy. Renewable Energy Energy derived from resources that are regenerative or for all practical purposes, cannot be depleted (wind,water and sun). ROI Return on Investment RPS Renewable Portfolio Standard (TDPUD) Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) California Solar Initiative SERCDC State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission SiGBA Sierra Green Building Association STC Standard Test Conditions TDPUD Truckee Donner Public Utility District TDV Time dependent valuation Volt Watt The unit of electric power in a unit of time. One ampere of current flowing at a potential of one volt produces one watt of power. Watt-Hours Measure of energy equal to one watt of power being used for one hour. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program 24 APPENDIX A- TDPUD QUESTIONNAIRE TDPUD Questionnaire: Definition of terms: 1. Kilowatt hours-1 know that a kilowatt is 1,000 watts,and is the number of kilowatts used in an hour, but what are the average kilowatts produced by a PV system? Answer: Photovoltaic systems come in all sizes from small to large.A 1000 watt(1 kilowatt)DC- rated system in our area would produce 1000 watts of power in full sunlight. In on our000, undertt e same sunny condition,it would produce 1000 watthours(1 kilowatthour)of energy. A 20,(20 kilowatt)photovoltaic system will produce 20 times the energy s measured in watthours, so be that power is measured in watts and is different than energy, careful not to confuse the two. 2. Installed watt-how is this different than"3"below? Answer: An "installed watt" is term defining the capacity (power) of the photovoltaic system at its rated output in full sunlight. This is different from "3" below, which talks about energy in watthours or in thousands of watthours called kilowatthours that the PV system produces. In the TDPUD service area, a 1000"installed watt"PV system will produce about 1520 kilowatthours of energy per year, assuming it's facing south and tilted at an ideal 30 degree angle. So a 20,000"installed watt"system would produce 30,400 kilowatthours of energy per year here. 3. Electricity produced by the system measured in kilowatt hours? Answer:Yes,this is correct.The energy produced by a PV system is measured in kilowatthours. 4. What is net metering? Answer: Net metering is the utility rule by which you can connect to the utility and offset the energy(kilowatthours)you use in your home or building with kilowatthours produced by your photovoltaic system, all at the full utility retail rate. In other words,you are compensated full retail value for what you produce in your own home's photovoltaic system.This rule is a real benefit to you. General Questions: 1. We want to give the rate payers a simple calculation for break-even on a solar application. In order to do this I believe we need the following information: a. Average annual electric usage? Answer:761 kwh/mo b. Average annual rate per kilowatt hour? Answer: For residential customers whose primary residence is Truckee,our rate is $.12 per kilowatthour. For our small commercial customers, is$.144 per kilowatthour. c. It would be helpful to have some discussion about the seasonal variances in electric demand. Answer:Our average customer monthly energy use is 700kwh/mo in the summer and 820kwh/mo in the winter. d. I believe I can get an average PV system cost, but your opinion/data would be helpful. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix A Answer:Average cost of a solar photovoltaic system in California is$9 to$10 per installed watt,so a 1000 watt(rated)system would cost$9,000 to$10,000.A typical home size system is 2 to 3 kilowatts. e. Any other factors that need to be considered? Answers:Other factors that you need to consider: Amount of TDPUD's solar incentive under its new S61 program-estimated to start at $2.80 per watt(would be$2,800 for a 1000 watt system,$5,600 for a 2000 watt system,etc). Federal Tax Credits available-$2000 for a residential PV system; 30%of cost of a business PV system. The tilt and orientation of the solar photovoltaic array will impact how much energy it produces, and may also affect your incentive from TDPUD. It's best to face the array south,at a tilt of between 10 and 40 degrees. Any shading (from trees, nearby buildings,other roofs,chimneys)can seriously affect how much energy a PV system produces in a year. It may also affect the size of your TDPUD solar incentive! So avoid shading. 2. What is TDPUD's philosophy regarding alternative energy? Answer:TDPUD strives for low rates and excellent service for our customers.At the same time,we are located in a beautiful setting,and benefit from clean air and a clean environment.Solar energy is abundant in our territory,and is among the cleanest of power resources.We hope to encourage its use through our new program and introduce the benefits of solar to our customers.We also see local solar installations as a way of further developing employment opportunities for our customers. Finally,we recently have committed to a Renewable Portfolio Standard,and we see the Solar program as another vehicle to help us achieve renewable energy goals. 3. Is SB1 seen as beneficial or bureaucratic requirements that will not be beneficial to costs to rate payers or reduce drain on system? Answer:TDPUD is working hard to make the SB1 program easy to participate in, and at as low cost as possible to TDPUD ratepayers. The state legislation was designed so that consumer- owned utilities such as TDPUD would have the flexibility to implement programs in different ways. By simpfifying the"bureaucracy',we can make the program available at tower cost to ratepayers and accomplish our fair share toward the statewide goals for solar. 4. What do you believe/know as the reason SB1 came to fruition? Answer S131 came about as a response of Californians to the challenges of continuing to import power at increasing cost,and at increasing damage to the environment.At the same time there is abundant clean solar power available to us all.TDPUD is in an excellent area to harvest large amounts of solar power in our own area and from our own rooftops. SB1 will help us do that. 5. Is TDPUD hoping to satisfy the requirements of SB1 by being all inclusive of rate payers or having a few large businesses install photovoltaic systems? Answer:We want to provide solar benefits to as many of our customers as are interested in participating.While we don't anticipate large businesses to install systems and exhaust the program funds,we will review the program from time to time to see if our intent of involving as many customers as possible is being met. 6. How will TDPUD ensure that the systems getting S131 funding are in compliance with system requirements?Will you do inspections? Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix A Answer:TDPUD's program is designed to assure that all systems meet the quality and performance eligibility requirements required in SB1.There will be post-installation inspections to assure that systems meet these standards and that TDPUD ratepayers are getting the highest value for all funds invested in the Program,Systems must meet all Codes and Standards,must be properly oriented,and be minimally shaded or un-shaded to comply with requirements for systems under SB1. 7. Will net metering be available,will it be beneficial to TDPUD, how is SB1 net metering different than net metering now offered? Answer: Net metering will be available and we don't anticipate any changes to our existing net metering program. SB1 does not require any changes that we are aware of. 8. What is TDPUD's share of the 3,000 megawatt requirement for SB1? Answer:Of the 3000 MW statewide goat,TDPUD's share is 1.54 MW over the ten year life of the required programs found in SB- 1.We are 0.22%of the municipal utility load of 700 MW for that period.This would be the equivalent of over 500 typical residential sized (3 kW)systems. 9. What public involvement is anticipated/what is TDPUD's public involvement goal? Answer SB - 1 requires that the District's Board of Directors hold a public hearing to both discuss the proposed solar program and to receive public comment. We anticipate that this hearing will be held in June or July of this year. 10. You mentioned that you are going to be using a consultant to implement SB1's requirements,what is that company's name? Answer:We are scheduled to discuss the possibility of hiring Efficiency Services Group(ESG)to assist us in the preparation and implementation of the District's SB-1 program ESG currently has over 30 years of experience in solar energy and energy program design. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix A APPENDIX B- TOWN OF TRUCKEE SNOW LOAD CRITERIA Excerpt from Town of Truckee, "Permit Handbook for Single Family Residential Construction, Appendix A— Municipal Code Chapter 15" 15.03.060 Snow Load Chapter 16 Division II is deleted and replaced with the following: All of the Town of Truckee shall be declared a snow area. This pertains to all structures, mobile homes, modulars, factory-built houses and commercial coaches. The following snow load requirements are established for all structures except mobile homes and commercial coaches. NOTE: Roof snow loads for mobile homes and commercial coaches will be established in the California Administrative Code, Title 25 up to 5,000 feet. Above 5,000 feet, use Tables 23 B-1 and 23 B-2. 1. Applicable west of the west section line of Sections 5, 8, 17 and 32 R 16E. T17 and 18 N., M.D.B. and M. TABLE 23 B-1 ROOF LIVE LOADS* Elevation above Sea Snow Load in Pounds Level in Feet Per Square Foot 5501-6000 220 Snow Load 6001-6500 260 Snow Load 6501-7000 300 Snow Load 7001-7500 340 Snow Load 7501-8000 380 Snow Load 2. Applicable east of the east section line of Section 5, 8, 17 and 32 R., 16 E., T 17 and 18 N., M.D.B. and M. TABLE 23 B-2 ROOF LIVE LOADS* Elevation Above Sea Snow Load in Pounds Level in Feet Per Square Foot 5501-6000 130 Snow Load 6001-6500 170 Snow Load 6501-7000 210 Snow Load 7001-7500 250 Snow Load 7501-8000 280 Snow Load 8001-8500 310 Snow Load * Intermediate values may be interpolated by proportions. 3. The Roof Live Loads within Sections 5, 8, 17 and 32 R., 16 E., T. 17 and 18 N., M.D.B. and M. shall be on a straight line proportion between the values shown in Tables 23 B-1 and B-2 based on the distance of the site from the boundary of the transition zone. 4. Higher snow loading than those shown in Tables 2313-1 and B-2 may be required by the Building Official in local areas of known higher snow accumulation. 5. Deviations from the above set forth snow loading may be permitted by the Building Official, provided the snow load and conditions in each individual case are derived and certified by a registered civil/structural engineer who can show proper experience in snow load evaluation. 6. In the design of buildings and structures, consideration shall be given to the following: a. Unbalanced loading of roofs. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix B b. Drifting due to adjacent obstructions. c. Accumulations in valleys and adjacent to parapet walls and chimneys. d. Ice loads on cornices. e. Possible impact loadings from snow falling on structure from higher roofs. f. Effect on structure from dynamic loading caused by snow sliding off roof. g. Snow sliding off roof and dynamically loading sidewalls by being forced against same due to snow embankment adjacent to the structure. h. Protection of entrances, exits and windows from the danger of failing icicles and snow sliding off pitched roofs. heated overhangs after having melted and run i. Ice weight where it will refreeze on un off from portions of roofs with heat below same. j. Projections through the roof, such as ventilation and plumbing vents, which may be torn off or damaged by sliding snow. 7. The following tabulated values may be used with roofs having pitch as shown. NOTE: These reductions do not apply to A-Frame or similar structures where the eave line extends below the anticipated snow depth. Roof Slope Percent of Tabulated Snow Load 7 in 12 80% x Snow Load 8 in 12 76% x Snow Load 9 in 12 72% x Snow Load 10 in 12 68% x Snow Load 11 in 12 64% x Snow Load 12 in 12 60% x Snow Load These roof loadings are applicable only to roofs having an eave height above the anticipated general depth to snow on the ground. In the case of"A-Frame" buildings and other similar types wherein the roof extends below the depth of the snow on the ground, a minimum of 1.4 times the tabulated values must be used on the roof below the ground snow level. Ground snow depth may be calculated by dividing the tabulated snow load by 25 Ibs/cubic foot. e.g., if tabulated snow load were 180 lbs./sq. ft., the anticipated ground snow depth would be 7.2'. (180 divided by 25 = 7.2'.) Also, special design consideration must be made for the stress condition wherein the snow from the upper portion of the roof slides down on top of the ground snow and consequently further increases the loading on the lower portion of said roof. 8. Gables, hipped, or curved roofs shall be designed to resist stresses caused by unit live loading 1.2 times the values in Tables 23 B-1 and B-2 on one-half of the roof is such loading result in large members or connections. Source: Town of Truckee, "Permit Handbook for Single Family Residential Construction, Appendix A—Municipal Code Chapter 15" htt ://www.townoftruckee.com/handbook.html , accessed May 14, 2007. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix B APPENDIX C - CALIFORNIA ENERGY ER RATING COMMISSION PARTIAL LIST OF APPROVED PRODUCTS AND PTC California Energy Commission Consumer Energy Center Partial List of Eligible Photovoltaic Modules California Solar Initiative . . _ Manufacturer •. ' R i • Number R• R 175W, 24V, Polycrystalline Module, 155.2 NA BP Solar BP175 B Multicontact,Bronze � Frame �...�.�.,W 1 : 1740W,24�, $P';S�arP7MA P e � ra0 -__ � - 115W 12V BP Solar BP3115S Polycrystalline Module 101 7 NA w/Multicontact Conn. Baa BP3 1 1 SALT aycrsm lcdit , I T 1 125W 12V BP Solar BP3125S Polycrystalline Module 110.8 NA � i w/Multicontact cone. 1 g« 125W 12V. }" BP S0 or.` � :��� 5 Folycr�rs1a11x�titi�Moc�u�e�} : 1,10 � N1� .. uiii�rettt fr�mme, .�_ .. 140W 24V 1 Polycrystalline Module, BP Solar BP3140B New AR l 123.8 NA i 1 w/Multicontact;Bronze 1 frame ._ 140W 24V i�olyC stew,ii M�du1e, BP Slr' �BP3 40 .. _1 �5� 1A I` , New R,1lfiultic`cintac Conn.;, 1 150 W 24V 11 Polycrystalline Module, 132.9 NA BP Solar BP3150B New AR,Multicontact; Bronze frame Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C 5flW(20t) Rating) ` 24V Po ii�lcrtstall 33 NA BP Solar' BP3150S. diale,New A 1 ,. Iulticontact 160W(2003 Rating) J 24V Polycrystalline BP Solar BP 3160B Module,New AR, 142.1 NA Multicontact,Bronze framex � T 1fW 1Y sfl� 1 1j42 ILIA � 3 w�Mult�antct cam•'' j 160W(2003 Rating) 3 24V Polycrystalline 142.1 NA BP Solar BP3]60S Module,New AR, 1 Multicontact conn 3 60W 1� Solar BP36 palyestalleMtcltzl�, 53 j 1 A 65W 6V Polycrystalline NA BP Solar BP365TS Module w/MC,Roof 57.2 Tile Frame 65W 1V 13p,Solar P365 i PO ycr stal 1Vl�Zle�i " 57 6 A iwersa.l tnc 75W(2003 Rating) i Polycrystalline Module 1 66.4 NA BP Solar BP375S (universal frame),new 3 3 � I AR,Multicontact cone. 7 W(206 . "F�©lyCI staliie 66 4E NA BP:Salar "'BP37SUwaial a 'new All 80W(2003 Rating) 1 Polycrystalline Module 71 NA BP Solar BP380S t (universal frame),new 1 J 3 AR,Multicontact Conn. i ' _ SOW(2 3 tag) � . Pal c stale Module I 71 AP Sc 1a BP38gt1 (unive at'frarne),new ,. . NA; Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C 165W 24V Monoc stalline BP Solar BP4165B ry 146.1 NA Module,Multicontact; Bronze frame 165W 24V Mono�stallin� - '' _ NA B�`Sd� B4165 l4(i MMi1'dule ter{M,tont d d r. 170W, 24V, ; "'Cry'talline BP Solar BP4170B 150.7 NA 4 Module,Multicontact, 1 Bronze Frame 17OW'24V;Single hl ,did, " 5€17 NA BP°polar Bp4170S (i nit El ),ne v i AR,1vlutn catac ; 175W, 24V, Monocrystalline BP Solar BP4175 Bx Module,Multicontact, 155.2 NA Bronze Frame, 150d 1 cells m 15W,24V, BPr1arP41 fi5; ;,Module,Mucoutacl, 155 NA Inteorati rarnp,lSf}d cel i 3 j3 j 175W 24V Monoc stalline BP Solar BP4175B ry 155.2 NA J Module,Multicontact; Bronze frame -„ M-w ?5W 24V Motwe �t lkln : BP Sc�l�';` � BP41715I � '`�' 155.2, I .Modu wlMu tit n 1 cow Integers -�� 175W 24V 11 Monocrystalline 155.2 NA BP Solar BP4175S Module w/Multicontact Conn. j 75W(200 Rahn .". 'Single suit Module BP475 4 rY. . 66 3= NA`. BP Solar {univers e al frame) new-, " AR, ticon ct conn, Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C 75W(2003 Rating) Single Crystal Module 66.3 NA BP Solar BP475U (universal frame),new 1 AR 8OW'(1003 Rating inglc.Crystal Mo& 07 , ; NA BP Solar �P480� �': � �; {t !versal frar�i�),new A Multrcoet corm. � 80W(2003 Rating) �� Crystal Module Single Cry 70.8 NA BP Solar BP480U (universal frame),new AR _ Ow Sing*Crystal. E B `Solar r P485T MQdxdeuniersal N fr riite),next AF I 85W Single Crystal Module (universal 75 3 NA BP Solar BP485S frame),new ARs � Multicontact ''85W Sxngld Cryst�1 F Solar BMW, Mocltxle,(�w rsalE NA , frame) .:r1: 'A 170W 24V Saturn BP Solar BP7170S Single Crystal Module 151.1 NA � w/Multicontact cone. St4atu .� ( NA BP S0.ar ` BP717S$ , ;S agl Crystal 11 adule 54�9 -, ,° . w/Mulneoataa conk m , aW.� a 180W 24V Saturn BP Solar BP7180S Single Crystal Module 160.2 NA w/Multicontact cone I u � 'l8.5W,,24.V.,,Saturn BP'Soler . UP7185S Sirigle NX Crystal Module 164 = ''w/MMultic€�nt�ct cow 85W 12V Saturn Single .,. BP Solar BP785S Crystal Module 75.5 NA w/Multicontact cone. ; } 90W 12V Saturn Single , BP Solar. 9P190Dl,, Crystml Module,dOk 80 NA frame BP Solar E BP790S 190W 12V Saturn Single 80 NA Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C M Crystal Module w/Multicontact cone. 9QW X2V Saturn°Single BP Solar 31'?9�[7: i Crystal l odule," NA universal me v 45W Millennia 2J a-Si BP Solar BP845I Module (medium 42.4 MNA voltage, integral frame) 5QW IVillernia 23 a Si j Salaar Bp85t11 Ivlode(iaaed�um •471 NA vQtag , 1 SSW Millennia"2J a-Si BP Solar BP855I Module (medium 51.9 NA I voltage,integral frame) MS'l� ° € odui�'(lied voltage, i 4? Ip BIP Sour NA 50W Millennia 2J a-Si BP Solar MST-50MV Module (med. voltage, 47.1 NA universal frame) Si I�Iilleamia 2l - tom l F Solar i Iv ST � Vol, � 1 � NA 140W Polycrystalline Module 123 8 NA BP Solar SX140B ; w/Multicontact,Bronze frame 1 o1yery"stau Modrulu ;1324 ? NA olar. BPS 15UB ! W/Mult cow,Bront 160W 24V Polycrystalline Module NA BP Solar SX160B w/Multicontact,Bronze j 142 frame I = µ l?QW 24V j `Pal cstallize M6dule �' � .'I5fl"?"�, � - " NA vMultcontaet,Broome s 170W 24V BP Solar SX170I 150 6 NA Polycrystalline Module Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C w/Multicontact corm.; Integra frame 90W I6V B Sbt S�1 PolycrystIlu 1Vtoduie I68 4 NA Multicontact B _._ OSPoI c stalline Module; 168.4 NA BP Solar S) Y rY � Multicontact " 1W":I6V 1. t ne, odule'c�lyer'Ytlt �_. 1'7F A BF Salter 53195 �ut� oetttron «....�.,..,�.«...�..,....e......a«�,.,..mwe..e �.p...,..6m.....m ..»».... ,�..w...e..e.,....a...� --v..^^.®..m. �e.nm 195W 16V BP Solar S K3195S Polycrystalline Module; 173 NA Multicontact -- --- j Open Energy i CNE-35L- 35W Waterproof PV 31.6 Manufacturer was onnect Corporation BLK-U Roof Tile Renewable Energy buddin iiitegra, te€ t pen Euergy, �vIat roc f r 2t 1 Corppru ' SP22 s�'aer r 450W Monocrystalline Open Energy SP450 Roofing Integral ral 402.9 NA [ Corporation Module77777-�- m �°45t1W Monoci, 1 Open Etaerg S1�48t1 4ocafug°"rural 4 1 orpc�, on E '-Mod, 167 Hbnd a= Sauy+ Eci DTP Ii7BA -5 ar Cello E ."156 7NA C�a` Ltd, . 175W HIT Hybrid a �..�. Sanyo Electric HIP- 163 NA 3 Si/c-Si Solar Cell .3 Co Ltd. 175BA3 Module 175 ,]Hn Hybrid a Sarya El�ctnc �- SIc-St ilr Cell 1 b3 3; NA Co Ltd: 175A5 ; Iodu1 , 5 . ` 180W HIT Hybrid a.�. Sanyo Electric HTp_180BA Si/c-Si Solar Cell 169.1 NA Co. Ltd. Module Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C 18OW HIT Hybrid a- A T, Sanyo'Electnc ,: HIP- Si/c�Si Solar Cell 168 1 NA W+dulc(3) 180W HIT Hybrid a- j Sanyo Electric 1 HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 168 NA Co Ltd 180BA5 � Module(5) � m l$OW HIT Hybnd a» ' j Sonyalectrie;:`. `H Sic. i sowCell l6� l NA 1806A1 1vloditl ` 180W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 169.1 NA Co. Ltd. 180DA2 Module 1 "SOW T Hxb�d HI - Sanyo L"1Gr1 lilo ��'Cell 1 1 " l'iFA C€ Ltd .18D i Limited environment 186W HIT Hybrid a- module; not warranted in Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 174.9 certain California Co. Ltd. 186BA3 Module -BA3 locations Contact Sanyo for additional information. is 8 HIT Hybnd a SanypTlectrlc III 8alc; o 11 A C . 186I3A Mcxul i „ 186W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric I HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 174.8 NA Co. Ltd. 186DA1 Module 18WHI"I Hybnd a- Sany�,Electri II? si /cS Sc�Iar C11 ! 74. NA C .Ltd HIP 186W HIT Hybrid a Sanyo Electric 173.4 NA y Si/c-Si Solar Cell Co. Ltd. 186DA3 Module i —7 -7 19OW HIT Hy d' Sanyo Electric <HP 19QBAsl if =S al C11 17 NA Ca Ltdt �. Marduie , 190W HIT Hybrid a Sanyo Electric HIP- NA Si/c-Si Solar Cell 178.7 Co. Ltd. 190BA1 Module(std.j.b.) 190W HIT.IIybrid a " San Elecic HIP'- h1A° y Sill-Si Solar°Cell. 178 7``; Co:Ltd, 190BA2 Module(stdj.b w/ Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C � .Wirm addl.v�ring) Limited environment 190W HIT Hybrid a- module; not warranted in 1 i Sanyo Electric HIP' Si/c-Si Solar Cell 178.7 certain California Co. Ltd. 190BA3 Module(3) locations. Contact Sanyo for additional information. ^ CIF l l%W HIS Hy nd a- 9 A Sonya Electti " --, = SfS Solar Cell,- 1 , Cc Ltd. 19 OBAS, Module,(S� 190W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 3 178.6 NA Co. Ltd. 190DA1 , Module 1OOW HIT Hyk nd Sar yca Electra SST gi Sa��at Cell � 17S & IOTA I Co:Ltd, 1t1E}A2odul �190W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 177.2 ! NA ` Co. Ltd. 190DA3 Module Limited environment } 95W BHT 1-I °a- 1 �. moule�,n�at�varr ,ted 1 y brtd Sanyo,tle� HIP-,: SrCTS Solar Cell;' l S3 cettain;California l Co.Ltd. 13A3 IoduieA )' j lccilxo Cvntac Sn : •-° additional on. HIP- 195 W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric Si/c-Si Solar Cell 183.5 NA Co. Ltd. 195BA5Module (A5) i, '195W HITO' brid a Sanyo Elect ri SIP-; l 8 NA Si/ -5�Solaj Cell: Co Ltd."', 1951�A j l�iiadUlc Limited environment module; not warranted in 20OW HIT Hybrid a 4 certain California Sanyo Electric Ham- Si/c-Si Solar Cell ? 188.7 Co. Ltd. 200BA3 locations. Contact Sanyo Module (A3) ifor additional information. Rating Revised 6/29/2005 20A HITHybrid.a Snyc Electnc HIPS Sifc-S Sour Cell lBS.fi_ NA 6.Ud. # 200BA5 Module(A5) �.:.200W HIT Hybrid�a�.e San o Electric HIP- NA Y I Si/c-Si Solar Cell 187.1 j Co. Ltd. 200DA3 ? Module l Go Solar Get Rebate, 2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C — Limited environment , ° 20SW HiT Hybrid a-, module;nod warrante d in Sanyo Electrio I�� �� �e-��Solar veil 193 5- c�:rtai��CaliForn a" Co.,Ltd 20EA3 Ni± +dine locatioi C to t:Sanyo, "for addth©nal idfoixtation. Sanyo Electric HIP- 205W HIT Hybrid a- Co. Ltd. 205BA5 Si/c-Si Solar Cell 193.5 NA Module 167W HIT Hybrid a Sanyo Electrke �' Sale S Solar.Cell l55 NA Co. U& G751H� std: 167W HIT Hybrid a- f 1 Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell 155.8 NA ' Co. Ltd. G751BA2 Module(std.j.b. w/addl. wrong) .*M W IIT Hybd a-. anyoIlectrie 1... S/e S Solai Cell 163 3 A Co.Ltd 1552BA1 175W HIT Hybrid a- Sanyo Electric HIP- Si/c-Si Solar Cell Co. Ltd. H552BA2 Module(std.j.b. 163.3 NA ' w/addl. wiring) 18t?W. ybrid a:_ Sanyo Electric HII 54 A 1 Stec- Solar Cell 1681 lA Co Ltd Mil le(std b: " � d 18OW HIT Hybrid a- San o Electric ' Si/c-Si Solar Cell 168.1 NA Co. Ltd. HIP-J54BA2 Module(std.j.b. { w/addl. wiring) I Sharp ! 125W Multisilicon 110.1 NA i �ND-125U1F � Module Corporation T 160W Nlultt. crystalline NIA-16 Ur1Z 14o S :j Rating Reprised 6/6/211OS Corataoxt� SIhon ldrie �aa _.�: w m_ . Sharp ND-160U3 160W Multi-crystalline 1 140.8 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 Corporation Silicon Module(U3) I 1 Sharp 1 ,162J l `.162W Multi, cryaalline 1425 IOTA Corporation SiliconMtxlule ' Sharp t 162W Multisilicon 11 142.6 NA AND-162U1F Corporation 1 Module I Sharp 1 I3-1 t2U2 162W Mult silrc011 l 142.6 NA Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C Corporation, I Mddule i �J. Sharp 167W Multisilicon ND-167U1 147.1 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 Corporation module 167W Multisilicon NL?�167UZ 14NA Corporation arp Madui� Z Sharp 167W Multisilicon Corpor ation ND-167U2 147.2 NA Module Shy ND; i ' 167 Muitisii con �I 1 ', atan Ravi 616/2005� Corporatiod modulo Sharp 167W Multi-crystalline Corporation ND-167U3A 147.1 NA Silicon Module burp l:$1W Musiticon ND-1$1" 1NA C orporation, Sharp N-181U1F 181W Multisilicon � Co oration Module 159.3 NA �� W:M�stliccanF Shy D.N1UZ 1i4% ETA 1 " Corporation ModulF, Sharp ND-187U1 187W Multisilicon 164.8 NA Corporation Module Sh 187W Mu1ttsili iD =l87U�D l 14 S r � Corporation Modulo Sharp ND-187U2 187W Multisilicon 164.8 NA Corporation Module Ship , 200W MWfit crystalluie� 1' D 240UD Z?6 Cove on i Siliec n Me _ Sharp 20OW Multisilicon µ ND-200U 1 F 176 NA Module Corporation 1 Sharp - 200 l uitisili ,on� _ ''Orpora on e 200 2 R odtile 1?6 l E Sharpmm M ND-205U1 205W Multi-crystalline 180.6 Added 4/22/2005 Corporation Silicon Module Sharp, "' 1�tU2081 T 1 ` 183 NA 3 r . orporatiox� ,_ _ Module { 208W Multisilicon Sharp 1 ND-208U IF 183.3 NA [ Corporation Module ' � 20 Sharp W'MuZtishcon NDx�208i32 D�rloduti ' Z 83 NA Corporation t �� Sharp ND-6ORU1 60W Multi-crystalline 52.7 NA Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C Corporation Silicon Module = �� �3 62w Mule+crystauane � _w Shmp NIA 62RU1 54.5 NA CQrporattpn Silicon Module md_..x. Sharp ;ND-62RU1F� 62WMultisilicon 54.5 NA Corporation Module Sham :62W Multisilicon Ni��2R�2 � � 54. , NA" Coat Module Sharp 70W Multi-crystalline ' Corporation ND-70ELU Silicon Module(left) 61.2 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 � N 70EII 1<2 R Revised 6/ 2� prpiai [on 3� tlruMdutet '. _ _ Sharp ND-72ELU 72W Multi-crystalline 63 NA i Corporation Silicon Module(left) M€din (lei NA Sharp 72W Multi-crystalline 63 NA ND-72ERU { Corporation Silicon Module (right) Sharp Nl . 72 t 1 ulhstnoon Gor r ition 72 RUF M dole Sharp ND-L3EIU 123W Multisilicon 108.3 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 Corporation Module � Shy l23W MWtisilicon:. M , C D- 3 �ra�on NEJE ltcd4l " + hu Rsa 6 Sharp ` " w...� __.. 123W Multisilicon ND-L3EJEA 108.3 NA Corporation Module (w/junct box) Sharp ND-L3EJEF 423W Uultisil�t con " 1'08 �q� /4�y� NA E Cf�C'pOratl ; > : E € M{`�dul�({'•T/��l/ !S), � � ,...e.m« x .m...,m..,.....,...r........a..�,.,. Sharp ND-N2ECU 142W Multisilicon 125 NA Corporation Residential Module Sharp 142w.Multisilicon 125 NA, 11 Corporation N2ECUly Residdi tial:Modulc. j" Sharp 146W Multisilicon Changed Power temp ND-N6ElV U Corporation module Coefficient Sharp AM, Multisilkdn ND-Nl3ECU 123 2 1 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 Corporation °: .. ResYde�attal Module Sharp 160W Multisilicon Changed Power temp , 140 ND-QOE2U 6 Corporation Module Coefficient Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C Sharp'," 1 5W MuItis hco Co tic ;<< Nt-165V Moda1e(hat`s revv 145 Rating, 61 2t1 15- Sharp NE 165W Polycrystalling 145.4 NA Corporation Module Shy 17t1W U1046c60 N1171 1493 Co. wration lbTdule Sharp NE-80E1U 80W Multisilic on 70 4 Changed Power temp Corporation Module Coefficient �.... ,. ,, � t1W Maltisi�san � � � f Ch an ge .POw e temp Cp por 'ion N Sfl� Modul � wly�ptton 7Q 4 Coe�c�e t.. Sharp 80W Multisilicon NE-80EJEA 70.4 NA Corporation Module(w/lunct box) Sharp 15W Mu1 €stle� ChangedPqe temp N ` 15113 M �(nc► � serer 1 C€ieent Caarloratton b1ck cctloEfraxit 3 125W Multisilicon Sha Changed Power temp Corporattion 'NE-K125U2 Modulety(pfl screw 110.1 Coefficient 77- 165W MWtisit eon Sh g [ Chan .P er temp N 5 1 U 164 e anon �t set i 145 2 Coef fcient Qiw Sharp ; 165W Multisilicon Changed Power temp I NE-Q5E2U ` Module (flat screw 145.2 Corporation ( { type) Coefficient Sharp 175W Mbn ryst .lsne . N 175[1 � 154 4 )RA Remised Corpa ttrn tls Mo�1e � mro _. . .e...„u...e......m ....m....m.m....«.., ..„....„..w.>....ee.e.e......4....«.. ...............„„.r •� «.e .... m....,.....®. ) Sharp 180W Single Crystal ( NT-180U1 Corporation Silicon Module777 159 NA Sha?tp 185"4 Single Crystal �" g51 Siheon Mode(sa 16 :5 Rating Revised120(1S� �Corptxun as NT 951U) Sharp 188W Single Crystal i NT-188U1 166.3 Rating Revised 6/6/2005 Corporation Silicon Module Sharp _ 1LT 175 W Multisilicon 154 2 Changed Power temp Comoration od�1e" _ C°efficientµ. ... Sharper 185W Multisilicon E NT-S5ElU Module 163.3 NA Corporation = Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C * PTC stands for "PVUSA Test Conditions." PTC watt rating is based on 1000 Watt/m2 solar irrandiance, 20 degree Celsius ambient temperature, and 1 meter/second wind speed. The PTC watt rating is lower than the "Standard Test Conditions" (STC), a watt-rating used by manufacturers. Note: The CEC list of approved products and associated rating system contains over 100 products. For the purposes of this report, we have only included those products that were researched during this study. Questions about the California Solar Initiative? Please see the contact information available on the Go Solar California! website. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix C APPENDIX D- PRODUCT INFORMATION Open Energy Led by a team of world-class building materials designers and electrical engineers, Open Energy Corporation has developed a comprehensive portfolio of building-integrated SolarSave@ PV solutions for commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential applications. SolarSave@ PV products are versatile and scalable, ensuring that each system meets the specific requirements of the project. Their sales are backed by outstanding installation, service, and product warranties. Contact Information: www.openenergvcorp.com Mark Bettis, Sales 650-740-1496 mbettis(d-)openenergycorp.com 1415 Wispering Pines Lane, Suite 150 Grass Valley, CA 95945 BP Solar BP Solar modules use two types of crystalline technology with proven efficiency and reliability: • BP Solar was a pioneer in polycrystalline technology which creates our sparkling deep blue line of modules in the BP3 and SX series. These high-performance silicon nitride coated multicrystalline modules provide superior energy generating (kWh/kWp) performance and value. • BP Solar also manufactures sleek black BP EnergyLuxTM modules made with monocrystalline solar cells. Each cell is cut from a single slowly grown crystal, a more expensive process which yields the most efficient solar cells. BP's large modules - 125 Watts and higher are ideally suited for residential and commercial applications. They also have a variety of small area modules for remote and industrial applications. To learn more about the advantages of BP Solar modules: Contact Information: 301-698-4200 or Home Depot 800-632-1111 630 Solarex Court Frederick, Maryland 21703 www.bp.com Sharp Electronics Corporation Sharp is the #1 manufacturer of solar cells worldwide with nearly as much generating capacity as the next three largest manufacturers combined. Their residential solar systems give families the ability to generate their own electricity from the inexhaustible energy of the sun - with no harmful emissions. They're cost-effective, quiet, attractive, safe, and reliable, with only minimal maintenance required over their long operational life. They're the right choice for your home and the right choice for the environment. It's no wonder why so many homeowners are making the move to Sharp Solar. For 45 years, Sharp has led the industry with practical, efficient, and affordable solar electric systems. Sharp systems have been installed everywhere, from the demanding environments of satellites and lighthouses to commercial and industrial buildings, and even on the most beautiful, high-tech homes. Solar has come a long way since 1954 when the first solar cell was created. Yet, the basic principles of solar technology remain the same. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix D Sharp's innovative solar technology is widely available in the U.S. residential market. They assemble both the modules and inverters ourselves, insuring that the electrical components are ideally matched so the system provides maximum performance, efficiently and reliably, for decades. Their home solar systems are quickly installed, and with no moving parts to wear out and next to no maintenance required, they are built to last. Their inverters are warranted for 5- years and their modules are covered by a 1-year warranty plus a 25-year warranty for power output. Their systems are designed with superb durability to withstand extremes of heat, wind, and impact and have proven their dependability in thousands of installations worldwide. You're making an investment in solar for your family and for the environment. The Sharp name guarantees that your investment will continue to pay dividends for decades to come. Contact Information; To find the location of the nearest Sharp Authorized Dealer, call Sharp toll free at 1-800- SOLAR06 (1-800-765-2706), sharpsolarCo)sharpusa.com 5901 Bolsa Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 Warranty info: Sharp Electronics Corporation Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, New Jersey, 07430-2135 www.sharousa.com/solar Source: Sharp Electronics Corporation—Solar Products website, http://solar.sharpusa.com/solar/home/0,2462„00.html. Sanyo Fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas have been essential resources for convenient, comfortable lifestyles. However, these energy sources greatly influence the state of the environment and are a factor that caused global warming. Capable of generating electricity from the sun which is an unlimited, clean source of energy, photovoltaic power generation has recently attracted a great deal of attention. As a pioneer in photovoltaic power generating systems, SANYO has consistently taken the lead in research and development. SANYO is dedicated to contributing towards more comfortable living for all and to promoting co-existence with the global environment. More than 30 years of experience in solar technology has earned SANYO a reputation for reliability among our customers. HIT (Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin-layer) hybrid solar cells are created by combining amorphous silicon and crystalline silicon and using an intrinsic semiconductor. Highest in cell conversion efficiency of 19.5% and module efficiency of 17.0%. (as of April 1, 2003, at mass- production level). Contact Information: Sanyo HIT: www.sanyo.com Sanyo Energy(U.S.A.) Corporation Tel. 1-469-362-5600 Fax. 1-469-362-5698 solar(o-)sec.sanyo.com Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix D APPENDIX E- INSTALLER INFORMATION Sierra Solar Systems Imagine clean independent energy. Imagine an affordable solar system that sells your excess power back to your utility company. Imagine a system so simple and user friendly that your children could run it - and so robust that they will still be running it 30 years later. Now imagine doing it with the company who has been helping families and businesses across the globe to turn their dreams into realities for more than a quarter of a century. Sierra Solar Systems is a company that is dedicated to providing all of the solar electric equipment necessary to provide power to your home, business, RV, or boat. They also carry a wide range of solar water pumps, energy efficient appliances, and renewable energy books and videos. If you have any problems ordering, or can't find a product that you are looking for, please call 888-ON-SOLAR and they would be happy to help. Contact Information: 563 Idaho Maryland Rd Grass Valley, CA 95959 Toll Free: 888-ON-SOLAR Local: 530-273-6754 Email: solarjon@sierrasolar.com www.sierrasolar.com Source: SiGBA Website, SiGBA Business Member's Pages, Renewable Energy Systems, http://www sigba org/about/sigbabusinessmembe/renewableenergysys/sierrasolarsystems/. Solar Windworks Solar Wind Works are installers out of Truckee. The PV products that Solar Wind Works use are GE Solar, BP Solar, Sanyo Solar, Sharp Solar, Shell Solar, Sunwize Solar, Uni-Solar, Evergreen Modules, Powerfilm Flexible Modules, Suntech Modules and Webel Modules. They will also consider installation of other solar products not in this list. Contact Information: 530-582-4503 toll free 877-682-4503 PO Box 2511 Truckee, CA 96160 www.SolarWindWorks.com California Contractor's License: #796322 Nevada Contractor's License: #59288 Tahoe Solar Design Tahoe Solar Designs is a company dedicated to minimizing our impact on Earth. They specialize in solar electricity and hot water. They promote pollution free power. They design and install grid-intertie and stand alone photovoltaic systems, solar hot water and solar heating systems Brett and Leslie are a located in South Lake Tahoe and service the complete Tahoe/Truckee Area. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix E Contact Information: Tahoe Solar Designs 2255 Del Norte South Lake Tahoe, CA 98150 530-542-0780 California Contractor's License: #654204 Nevada Contractor's License: #0058631 Sun Power Construction Sun Power Construction is a California State Licensed solar contractor. They specialize in the design, sales and installation of Solar Electric Power Systems, Solar Domestic Hot Water, Solar Pool Heating and Solar Home Heating. Sun Power Construction provides quality installation and reliable service for all solar applications throughout California. Sun Power Construction's focus is reliability, technical excellence and superior customer service. Sun Power Construction specializes in remote location residential and commercial solar energy needs. Contact Information: P.O. Box 101 Truckee, CA 96160 Ph:(530)550-0770 Email: kevin@sunpowerconstruction.com CA License#759837 C-46 www.sunr)owerconstruction.com Source: SiGBA Website, SiGBA Business Member's Pages, Renewable Energy Systems, http://www sigba org/aboutlsiababusinessmembe/renewableenergysys/sunpowerconstructi/. Premier Power Renewable Energy Premier Power Renewable Energy, a leading provider of solar panel sales and installations in Northern California, started originally as a small subsidiary of Premier Homes. The demand for solar power systems became so great that the company branched out on its own and has been successfully providing solar power systems to homes and businesses. Growing day by day, Premier Power continues to strive for excellence in providing alternative renewable energy for all Americans. In business since 1986, Premier Power specializes in evaluating their client's needs and finding the right turnkey solar power system to eliminate their electricity bills. From residential neighborhoods to large corporations and industries, Premier Power has made a difference in the energy bills of their clients. Their website offers the following: • Free Solar Energy Consultation • Free solar study • Solar calculator • "How solar works" • Rebate information Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix E According to Premier Power purchasing a solar power system for your home is a big decision. You need to research solar power and find out if Free Electricity is right for you; it is important to know what to ask your Solar Consultant. Ask solar consultants the following questions: • How long has this company been in business? Premier Power has been in business since 1986 and has installed many successful solar systems. Make sure the company you choose has at least 2-5 years of experience in the solar industry. • What organizations does the company belong to? Premier Power belongs to CalSEIA, ASES, and the Better Business Bureau among other organizations. Research the company's website to see if they are members of organizations within the solar industry. • Do they hold a valid contractor's license? Premier Power proudly holds a State Contractor's License to comply with federal law. Valid Contractor's License is held and viewable at www.cslb.ca.gov Premier Powers also says it is important to know what a Solar Power System includes. If you are purchasing a solar power system, ask these important questions. • Who is the manufacturer of the solar panel and inverter? Premier Power solar systems use the most innovative technology such as GE Energy and SMA America. Make certain that you know who manufacturers your solar modules and inverters before you buy them. • Does my equipment have a warranty? Premier Power carries a 25 year warranty on panels and 5 year warranty on inverters. Be aware of your solar company's warranty policy as well as the equipment manufacturing warranties. • Who installs the solar system? Premier Power provides a turnkey installation. Be sure to find out if the installation is sub-contracted out or if the work is done by the company's own installation team. • Will my system be interconnected? Premier Power works with your utility to connect you to the grid. Make sure the company you choose handles the interconnection process. • What is Included in The Price? Does the cost include extras? Premier Power gives you the total cost up front. Make sure you understand what is included in your solar panel system to avoid hidden costs from other company's bids. • Is there a Rebate for the installation of solar on my home? Premier Power files all the paperwork for your rebate. Be aware of the solar rebate provided by the company you choose. • How do I apply for Tax Credits? Ask your solar company for detailed information on the forms for your tax credit. • What Should I Ask of Premier Power's Solar Panel Systems? Are Premier Power Solar Systems reliable? Absolutely.The systems have a 30-40 year life expectancy and the panels come with 25 year production warranty. Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix E What does the System include? Turnkey means supplied, built and installed complete. We handle it all. Finally, Premier Power says you will be satisfied with work, 100% Guaranteed. • We work with our clients to provide them with the exact solar energy system size and design that they need for their situation. Phone: 877-939-0400 Headquarters: 4961 Windplay Drive, Suite 100 El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 phone: (916) 939-0400 fax: (916) 939-0490 Office hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm e-mail: infoO)oremierpower.com Regional Office: 10580 N. McCarran Blvd. Suite 115#352 Reno, NV 89503 phone: (877) 939-0400 fax: (916) 939-0490 e-mail: info(?premierpower.com Source: http://premierpower.com Go Solar Get Rebate,2007 North Lake Tahoe-Truckee Leadership Program Appendix E