Before You Say Yes to Solar

Today’s consumers want and expect options, including the type of energy powering their homes. Many homeowners are looking for a less expensive form of energy with ongoing savings. Some are looking for a green energy source. These two motives are why many homeowners are exploring rooftop solar panels.

The interest in alternative energy sources is also being fueled by decreasing costs for rooftop solar, the availability of financial incentives and the proliferation of companies offering solar panel installation.

However, as attractive and popular as rooftop solar may appear, it is important for our members to fully understand its true costs, the operational reality of this form of energy and actual energy savings.

We’re Here to Help 
As your trusted energy adviser, we’re here to explain how our net metering tariff works and details related to the application process. After all, our “bottom line” is not directly tied to the sale of a product or service — our cooperative exists for members like you, and we constantly strive to find new ways to help you use energy more efficiently.

We’re always seeking to keep pace with the changing energy environment and evolving technology, and we’re exploring more options that will help you manage your energy use, such as our existing HVAC rebate program. Overall, we take a more holistic, objective view of how to achieve energy savings.

Serious About Solar?
We recognize that consumer interest in green energy sources is at an all-time high, and we stand ready to help our members determine their best options. For example, when assessing solar options, it might be an excellent time to examine other potential energy efficiency improvements for your home, such as insulating the attic at the same time as installing solar.

As always, contact us directly with questions about solar versus traditional electric energy transmission and delivery, as well as concerns about connection to the power grid. Wheatland Electric must approve all applications for grid interconnection, so if you’re serious about solar or any other renewable energy resource, it’s important that you contact us as early in the process as possible. Email us at memberservices@weci.net or call your local Wheatland office today.
 

Unlike a solar company that has one objective — to sell their products and services — we’re here to look at the total energy picture and help you determine the best options for your home. While rooftop solar certainly works for many people, it’s not the answer for all. If you’re considering a photovoltaic “solar system” for your home, there is more to consider than promised monthly savings. Here are some aspects to consider:

• Know all the costs, not just those for equipment and installation.
• In addition to equipment and labor, there are also pricey “soft costs” that can cost more than the system itself, according to Energy.gov. They include permit acquisition, financing charges, and “pass-along” marketing, advertising and research costs.
• Thoroughly investigate the company: Is it backed by the Better Business Bureau?How long has it been in business? Is it contracted to do business in your state?
• Are installers specially trained and certified to install solar?
• Is the work supervised by a master electrician?
• Who maintains the equipment and how much does that cost?
• Does the company carry major insurance for individuals working on your property?
• How does the system interface with your electric utility and its requirements?
• Consider whether to purchase or lease the system and what happens if you move?
• What are the safety issues surrounding solar?
• How is the power safely disconnected if needed?
• Does your utility require you to carry special insurance?

Questions? Contact us first: memberservices@weci.net