How do you secure solar power permits and incentives?

If you want to install a solar power system on your property, you need to obtain the necessary permits and incentives from various authorities and programs. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it can also save you money and hassle in the long run. Here are some steps and tips to help you secure solar power permits and incentives.

1 Check local codes and regulations

Before you start planning your solar project, you need to find out what local codes and regulations apply to your area. Depending on your location, you may need to comply with zoning, building, electrical, fire, and environmental standards. You may also need to get approval from your homeowners association, utility company, or historic preservation board. To avoid delays and fines, you should research and follow the rules and requirements of your jurisdiction.

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Sandeep Rao

Innovation, Sustainability, Partnerships
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Make a power purchase agreement with reputed industry for the capacity the company can deliver. The company needs to work on getting approvals and permits from the government and authorities as a power generation provider. Use the utilities for wheeling the power from the company premises where the generation happens to the industry. Either pay the utility for wheeling or generate extra so the utility can consume. Work out the incentive sharing structure with the industry.

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Václav Kůla

Head of Renewables fund at WOOD & Co.
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Understanding local codes and regulations is essential but only one dimension of RES project planning. Strategic consideration of jurisdiction-specific incentives, tax credits, and PPAs can offer a competitive advantage. Utility engagement should extend beyond mere approval to encompass grid interconnection requirements and tariff impacts on ROI. Community and stakeholder engagement is often overlooked but can facilitate smoother approvals and additional project support. Regulatory due diligence isn't just a compliance requirement; it's an opportunity for strategic positioning. Skillful navigation of these factors can accelerate project timelines and positively impact profitability.

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2 Apply for permits and inspections

Once you have a clear idea of what you need to do, you can apply for the permits and inspections that are required for your solar system. You may need to submit plans, drawings, specifications, and fees to various agencies and departments. You may also need to schedule inspections and tests to ensure that your system meets the safety and performance standards. You should keep copies of all the documents and receipts related to your permits and inspections.

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Scott Alexander

Business Development
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Here in Alberta, the contractor does all the permit and funding applications along with the interconnection agreement with a few signatures from the client.

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Dr NaEemi AG

Renewable Energy Academic Researcher | Stakeholder Engagement of Corporate Law Management | Finance | Project Management
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Australia;New Zealand and Singapore. The contractors and stakeholders certifying [1st] the location whether it is a residential or commercial for solar project. Roof structure to inspected and measured for solar panels. [2nd] submit the signed agreement for the solar project with shop drawing to the power authorities in order to approve for synchronization [3rd] submits all required documentation to the local government and power supply firm. [4] all stakeholders to carry out their relevant jobs..i.e. electrician to run cables. carpenter to fix frame. The contractor and project owner pay each stakeholder their required payment upon completion of the projects. Therefor solar power project is a process .. not a single task.

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3 Claim federal tax credit

One of the most significant incentives for going solar is the federal tax credit, which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of your system from your income taxes. To claim this credit, you need to fill out Form 5695 and attach it to your tax return. You also need to keep proof of purchase and installation of your system. The federal tax credit is available until 2022, when it will drop to 22%, and then expire in 2024.

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Ingo Lange

NEXT Knowledge @ GREEN Innovation
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Don't feed in - go the island approach with public grid-in direction still possible - nobody can ask you for permits, if you try to produce for your own consumption only - in a free world - works in Africa with utilities trying to shut down private production - works in Germany, where you have to go through a paper war for max. 600Wp installations.

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4 Explore state and local incentives

In addition to the federal tax credit, you may also qualify for state and local incentives that can reduce the cost of your solar system. These incentives may include rebates, grants, loans, exemptions, or performance payments. Each state and locality has its own rules and eligibility criteria for these incentives, so you need to check what is available and how to apply for them. You can use the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) to find and compare the incentives in your area.

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5 Register for net metering

Net metering is a policy that allows you to sell the excess electricity that your solar system produces back to the grid. This way, you can offset your utility bill and earn credits for the energy you generate. To participate in net metering, you need to register with your utility company and install a bidirectional meter that can measure the flow of electricity in both directions. You should also understand the rates and terms of your net metering agreement.

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6 Monitor and maintain your system

After you have secured all the permits and incentives for your solar system, you need to monitor and maintain it regularly. You should check the performance and output of your system using a monitoring device or software. You should also clean and inspect your panels, wires, inverters, and batteries for any damage or defects. You should also keep track of the expiration dates and renewal procedures of your permits and incentives.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you secure solar power permits and incentives?

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Check local codes and regulations

2 Apply for permits and inspections

3 Claim federal tax credit

4 Explore state and local incentives

5 Register for net metering

6 Monitor and maintain your system

7 Here’s what else to consider

Renewable Energy

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How do you secure solar power permits and incentives?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Check local codes and regulations

2 Apply for permits and inspections

3 Claim federal tax credit

4 Explore state and local incentives

5 Register for net metering

6 Monitor and maintain your system

7 Here’s what else to consider

Renewable Energy

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