Take caution when contracting for solar panels
The passage of the Distributed Energy Resource (DER) Program Act by the General Assembly in 2014 was the culmination of many years of research and collaboration among South Carolina’s energy stakeholders. It opens the way for third-party leasing of renewables, predominantly solar, in this state.
The Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) works with stakeholders in planning for South Carolina’s energy future. In fact, a multi-year process to develop a State Energy Plan is now underway.
While finances may not be the driving factor behind the decision to use solar, the ORS recommends treating solar like any other major investment. Become educated about the installation process. Here is a step-by-step approach to take in considering a move toward solar.
The first step to contact your electric provider. Gain a full understanding of their policies and procedures with regard to solar. For example, some providers do not buy back power and, among those who do, terms of the buy-back plans may vary. It is important to know the parameters set by your electric provider before initiating any solar installations, either purchased or leased, for your home or business.
You will need their approval to connect to the grid. Identify qualified contractors. In any new business venture gaining in popularity, scammers prey on the uninformed. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) maintains a nationwide list of certified installers. You can also turn to groups that know South Carolina’s solar landscape to help in your decision-making process.
Nonprofit organizations such as the S.C. Solar Council (www.scsolarcouncil.org) and the S.C. Solar Business Alliance (www.solarbusinessalliance.com) maintain lists of solar companies on their websites. Selecting from among these professional, licensed contractors can prevent problems with the system caused by improper installation and maintenance.
To activate the grouping of solar panels (also known as the solar array) installed on your home or business, you will need a licensed electrician. Request several bids. Solar installers from around the country, and even new home-grown solar companies, are gearing up to take advantage of the anticipated boom in South Carolina installations.
Also ask whether each contractor has the necessary licenses and liability insurance with the State of South Carolina. Make sure to verify with the SC Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation that the company has a valid contractor’s license and does not have any complaints pending before the Contractor’s Licensing Board. Incidents of some contractors or solar installers taking advantage of customers who have not done their homework have already been reported in South Carolina.
Consider leasing. Leasing, rather than owning, solar panels may be the preferable choice for some consumers. Those considering the leasing option should bear in mind that only companies approved by the ORS to offer leases can, by law, offer that service. If you decide to lease a solar system, visit the ORS website at http://www.regulatorystaff.sc.gov/electric/Pages/LeasingInformation.aspx to ensure that the company has been approved as a leasing provider.
Use the resources of the ORS and its Energy Office. A Consumer Guide to Solar for the South Carolina Homeowner includes all the information homeowners need when choosing a solar system. Also included are several checklists to ensure that consumers ask the right questions and have the best information to make an informed decision about a solar purchase. The guide can be found online at http://energy.sc.gov/files/SolarGuideHomeowners.pdf or you can contact the ORS Energy Office for more information.
If you do encounter a contractor or solar installer who causes you concern, contact your local Better Business Bureau and the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs. If the contractor is licensed through the S.C. Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, contact that agency as well. For concerns or questions about solar leasing companies or investor-owned electric utilities, you can contact the ORS by phone at 1-800-922-1531 (toll-free within South Carolina).
The writer lives in Columbia and is executive director of the State Office of Regulatory Staff.
This story was originally published November 30, 2015 at 8:27 AM with the headline "Take caution when contracting for solar panels."