Anaheim has been actively promoting renewable energy for the past 20 years.
1 – Financial Incentives
The city of Anaheim states that in order to help their customers do their part to create a sustainable future, their resources provide customers, “as much as fifty percent of installed cost” on solar systems (a.k.a. photovoltaic modules). This is one of the largest rebates in the nation! When coupled with the federal tax credit (30% of installed cost), you can expect up to 80% savings on your energy costs.
Of course, in order to qualify for this rebate there are some steps you need to take…
2 – How to Qualify for Anaheim Solar Rebates
- You must complete a “Utility Checkup” to understand how much energy you are using and how you use it.
- Choose a contractor, they must have “a current A, B, C-10, or C-46 contractor’s license.”
- Get a proposal
- Your installer will apply for the rebate on your behalf using the proposal
As you can see, a very simple process for an installer.
3 – When the rebate is available
The next rebate period is 16 September – 30 September. What this means for you is that you need to have your contract signed before September 30th in order to then have your application processed. Keep in mind that this includes a contract from a qualified contractor which includes design and layout.
It is important to get your application in early. If the total number of applications exceeds the budget, the rebates will be awarded by lottery. This has not happened yet with past rebate periods but the total budget decreases with each period.
4 – What to Expect
Once all of your documents are in and your reservation has been made by your contractor, your job is to sit tight.
- Your contractor will work with the city and make sure the design qualifies per Anaheim’s specifications.
- Upon approval of plans, a building permit will be granted
- After installation, the city will come and inspect the system to ensure that everything has been completed properly
Fortunately the city of Anaheim doesn’t issue “Permission to Operate” letters which means that once your system is installed, it can be turned on and running. It’s also important to note that when the inspection occurs, a new “power production meter will be installed at the new meter socket.”
Congrats, you’re eligible for your rebate payment! Your contractor will take care of all the paperwork and required documents for obtaining the rebates.
5 – Net Metering
This is the fancy name for what happens when you produce more energy than you’re using at any given time. Most systems are connected to “the grid,” meaning that when you’re using energy at night (solar system is dormant), the electricity is coming from Anaheim Public Utility. During the day, you may be producing more than what you use especially in the summer with longer days. For you to get credit for the energy you send back to the utility, you will sign an agreement, the Interconnection Agreement for Net Energy Metering.
This will ensure that you are credited for what you overproduce and it is saved in your account to be used when you’re not producing, i.e. at night.
For more information on proposals and timeframes, leave a comment or Contact Us.
To get a proposal for your building click here.
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