SunWatts Renewable Energy and Rebate Program
Are you thinking about going solar in Arizona? With SunWatts Renewable Energy Rebate Program, you can cut off solar installation costs and start your journey towards savings instantly.
Arizona is the sunniest state in the United States. It is firmly in the sunbelt, making it the best state for solar energy. As a result, some of the world’s largest solar farms will be developed within the state’s borders. Many utilities in Arizona provide rebates or payback plans for customers who install solar on their property.
In this article, we will explain how you can participate in the SunWatts rebate program and the benefits for the member
What is SunWatts Renewable Energy and Rebate Program?
MEC’s renewable energy strategy, approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), funds SunWatts rebates through the Renewable Energy Standard Tariff (REST). This is a tax on member bills mandated by the ACC. Over 1,200 members have already taken advantage of Arizona’s abundant sunshine and the Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC) SunWatts Renewable Energy Incentive Program. Rebate funds are offered to residential and small commercial members who install photovoltaic (solar) systems in their homes or businesses.
Furthermore, the incentive for residential and small commercial solar and wind systems is 5 cents per watt. The maximum system capacity limit is 50 kW. The incentive limit is $2,500 for residential and small business properties. Also, leased systems are not eligible for incentives. Members who use solar backup batteries with their renewable energy systems are also eligible for a battery rebate.
What is the application process for the SunWatts Renewable Energy Program?
To help members and their solar and wind energy suppliers, MEC has created a streamlined method for applying for the 2024.
Step 1: Enrollment for SunWatts Renewable Energy Program
The MEC member must submit a completed reservation form to the Energy Management Department. The form must include a copy of the contractor’s proposed work and cost estimate, both signed by the member and contractor. Mohave Electric will analyze the reservation form and determine whether incentive funds are available for this application. You will be placed on a waiting list until the fund request opens. You will be notified whether the project is allowed or is placed on a waitlist.
Step 2: SunWatts Interconnect Agreement, Disclaimer & Distributed Generation Service (DGS) Application
The completed Interconnect Agreement must be presented to Mohave Electric’s Engineering Department for evaluation. It must include any line drawings and job-specific requirements. After the Engineering Department approves the Interconnect Agreement, you can proceed with the project.
Also, by completing this form, the Member agrees to comply with any future modifications to the Distributed Generation rules. You will be subject to any modifications and will be responsible for paying any future increases in electricity rates, basic charges, or service fees imposed by MEC.
Step 3: Contractor Certification Form
This form must be submitted whenever all of its requirements have been completed. Upon completion of the system installation, the licensed contractor must demonstrate initial compliance with these nine items. However, failure to achieve these standards may result in refusal of the incentive and termination of the connection agreement.
Step 4: Final Form Submission
After the solar system installation and passing all building inspections, the Mohave member must submit the following documents to complete the incentive application process:
Copy of the final bill or invoice from the Contractor
Copy of the Building Permit
Copy of the final Building Inspection
After completing the application, Mohave Electric will check the system at the member’s location. At the system’s confirmation, the SunWatts incentive will be processed. However, the system must be turned on after passing county or city inspection. This is because Mohave Electric cannot finish our final inspection and issue authorization to operate letters until that inspection is complete.
Is there any battery rebate included in SunWatts Renewable Energy and Rebate Program?
Mohave Electric is also providing a commercial and residential battery rebate to members who purchase and install battery systems after January 9, 2022. This new Residential / Commercial Battery Storage Program promotes renewable energy, maximizes member savings on electric costs, and lowers MEC’s peak demand. Mohave Electric members will be rewarded to install 5 kWh battery units with a minimum usable capacity by receiving a $500 refund for each qualified installation program. Battery systems must have programmable controls or wi-fi capabilities. Moreover, they cannot be charged during On-Peak periods.
In conclusion, the SunWatts Renewable Energy Program aims to support residential and commercial owners to switch to solar energy with low upfront costs. So, if you live in Arizona and still depending on grid power, now is the time to take advantage of solar incentives in Arizona and become energy independent.
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