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Rooftop Solar

Do you want solar for your home or business? We’re here to give honest answers about your energy solutions.

Harnessing the Power of the Sun

Rooftop solar is becoming more available to homes and businesses across Northern Colorado. Before installation, first understand if rooftop solar, net-metering, and interconnected systems are right for you.

We’re here to help you make the best decision about your current and future energy needs. As your trusted energy partner, we want to provide you the resources and information you can depend on.

Learn rooftop solar basics, what you should ask solar companies, and the steps you should take before installing.

Have You Considered Other Options?

There’s additional ways to benefit from renewable power besides installing solar panels on your roof.

With the high upfront cost of installation, managing routine maintenance, and other unforeseen problems, it might make sense for you to seek alternative solutions for your clean energy needs.

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Community Solar

Explore this option prior to continuing rooftop solar research. Get energy from local solar arrays without the hassle of installing and maintaining solar panels on your roof.

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Green Power Program

The easiest, most convenient way to go green. Benefit from renewable energy production from solar, wind, and small-scale hydroelectric generation.

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Energy Management Solutions

Learn ways to better manage your energy use through helpful advice, energy management programs, and electric product/appliance rebates.

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Rooftop Solar Basics

Deciding to purchase and install rooftop solar should be considered after you have all the facts – as your trusted energy partner, that’s where we come in!

We’re Here to Help

Get unbiased information to make the best decision about your current and future energy needs.

Before you install any equipment, ensure the system’s size matches your energy consumption, has a realistic payback timeline, and can be properly integrated within our electric system.

Research the company or contractor you plan to use. Make sure they have a good reputation in your area. And read all the details about how your system is expected to be paid for or financed.

Understand how your monthly electric bill is impacted by your on-site energy production. Will the cost of your system offset your energy production credit? Will you still receive a monthly PVREA electric bill? Find answers to these questions and more in our articles below.

Is Rooftop Solar Right For Me?

We put together helpful information to assist you in answering questions you might have about rooftop solar. Find out if a private solar system is right for you, what you should ask solar companies, and the steps you should take before installing solar.

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Rooftop Solar FAQs

What is PV solar? What is net-metering? How does it all work with PVREA? Will I still receive a monthly electric bill? There are a lot of questions, and we’ll answer them for you right here.

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Rooftop Solar Requirements

It is crucial that your planned rooftop solar project meets our standards to properly operate within our system.

Your rooftop solar system must be under 25 kW or 120% of the twelve-month historical usage at the metering point, whichever is less.

If your system is above 25 kW, find our processes here.

Estimate how much kW your system will need to generate by using the tools below.

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First Reduce Your Use

Before calculating how much solar production your rooftop system will need to generate, we recommend reducing your overall electrical consumption through energy efficiency products and upgrades. Discover energy efficiency tips and apply for rebates!

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CSU Extension Online Calculator

This online tool from the Colorado State University Extension let’s you calculate different solar production systems, site orientations, and sizes to understand estimates of production, costs, and net return expectations.

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Steps to Connect Your Rooftop Solar

  • 1. Contact Us First

    Talk to our energy experts to discuss your plans, review your energy needs, and find out what solutions might best work for you. Call us at 800.432.1012 or email energyuse@pvrea.coop.

  • 2. Upgrade Your Energy Efficiency

    Don’t pay for a system larger than you need.

    Small steps towards better energy efficiency can help you optimize your PV system for your lifestyle, instead of paying to produce more energy than you might actually need.

    These resources help identify areas where you can be more energy efficient in your home. Plus find rebates to offset the cost of electric products and appliances.

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  • 3. Calculate Your Energy Needs

    Use this resource can help you determine how much energy you need based on your current energy use.

  • 4. Review Our Net-Metering Application

    Find the Net-Metering Application form below. Ensure that your planned system meets our interconnection standards. Systems must be under 25 kW or 120% of your twelve-month historical usage at the metering point, whichever is less.

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  • 5. Check Building, Zoning & HOA Requirements

    Contact the building and zoning departments in the county to request a building permit and/or an electrical permit for an electrical addition. Also contact your homeowners association.

  • 6. Submit Your Net-Metering Application

    Submit your completed form and a check for the required fees: a $200 application fee and $55 meter exchange fee. Forms can be mailed or emailed – instructions can be found on the form. Checks can be mailed to 7649 REA Parkway, Fort Collins, CO 80528.

    Contact your contractor and/or equipment manufacturer for assistance obtaining the information required in the application.

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  • 7. We Review Your System

    We will complete a review of your application and, if approved, will provide an executable interconnection agreement.

  • 8. Submit Your Certificate Of Completion Form

    Install your system and pass the required electrical inspection.

    Then submit your Certificate of Completion form, found below, to us by mail or email – instructions are found in the form.

    We will then inspect your system while installing any necessary metering or other equipment.

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  • 9. Start Generating Your Own Solar Energy!

    Once your generation is installed and your required inspection is completed, you will be put on the Tariff NP (Net Metering) Rate for payment of annual true-up of unused energy credit balance. See our rates, fees, & charges for current unused energy credit balance rates. The annual true-up date is April 1.

    You will continue to receive a monthly PVREA electric bill that includes service charges and any costs for electricity delivered by the co-op. These charges ensure we maintain your electrical demand capacity and manage the overall electric grid.

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Find the Forms You’ll Need

Prior to submitting any forms, review how to configure your rooftop solar system in the information above.

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Green Power Program

Easiest, most convenient way to go green.

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Community Solar

Hassle-free renewable energy subscription.

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Interconnection Report

View our current Interconnection Report here.

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Contact Our Energy Experts Today

For questions, contact us by filling out the accompanying form or reach out via email or phone.

800.432.1012
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