Can my HOA stop me from getting solar?

Notification of HOA Responsibilities:

It is the Customer’s/Homeowner’s responsibility to submit all paperwork related to their Home Owner Association (HOA).  Arizona Energy Pros will provide the homeowner with the necessary plans needed for submittal.  HOA’s general requirements are  A) Application, B) Approved Building Permit, C) A Building Packet including, but not limited to, a site plan showing equipment and panel placement.  Please check with your HOA office to confirm their specific requirements and notify our office in writing of documents required for architectural review by the HOA.

Arizona State Statute (pertaining to installation of PV on residences with HOA’s):

33-1816 Solar Energy Devices; reasonable restrictions, fees and costs.

a. Notwithstanding any provision in the community documents, an association shall not prohibit the installation or use of a solar energy device as defined in section 44-1761.

b. An association may adopt reasonable rules regarding the placement of a solar energy device if those rules do not prevent the installation, impair the functioning of the device or restrict its use, or adversely affect the cost or efficiency of the device.

c. Notwithstanding any provision of the community documents, the court shall award reasonable attorney fees and costs to any party who substantially prevails in an action against the board of directors of the association for a violation of this section.

ROC Complaints:

The property owner has a right to file a written complaint with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) for an alleged violation of section 32-1154, subsection A. The ROC phone number is (602)542-1525 or Toll Free outside Maricopa County within Arizona: 1-877-MY AZROC (1-877-692-9762). The ROC website is http://www.azroc.gov/. Complaints must be made in writing in the applicable time period as set forth in section 32-1155, subsection A.


Discounts on Solar Installations

SOLAR SALE: End of Year Discount

Solar System Discounts by Arizona Energy Pros

Why not take advantage of energy provided by the sun? Why pass up on all the rebates and tax incentives from the government?

 

 

We do not hire high pressure salespeople to come into your home. Nor, will we try to bend the truth just to make a sale. In fact, we’ll even tell you right here on our website how much a system will cost you.

Call us at 602-863-6900 so that we can walk you through a system that would be right for your home.

We can discuss your options over the phone or right in person. It’s the perfect time to start saving money on your utility bill and to invest in a solar system.

UPGRADE YOUR HOME WITH SOLAR WITH ARIZONA ENERGY PROS

We have reduced our prices on all the top name brand solar systems. The same systems that will deliver high performance for decades.


Arizona Power Service (APS)

Arizona Power Service
APS – Renewable Energy Incentive Program


Last DSIRE Review: 1/20/2011
Program Overview:
State: Arizona
Incentive Type: Utility Rebate Program
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies: Solar Water Heat, Solar Space Heat, Solar Thermal Process Heat, Photovoltaics, Landfill Gas, Wind, Biomass, Geothermal Electric, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Solar HVAC, Solar Pool Heating, Daylighting, Anaerobic Digestion, Small Hydroelectric, Other Distributed Generation Technologies
Applicable Sectors: Commercial, Residential
Amount: PV incentives may be de-rated based on expected performance
Grid-tied residential PV: $0.60watt; see below for more information
Off-grid residential PV (less than 5 kW): $1.50/watt DC;
Grid-tied non-residential PV up to 30 kW: $1.75/W
Grid-tied non-residential PV over 30 kW: production-based incentive (PBI)
Off-grid non-residential PV: $1.35/W DC or PBI
Residential/small solar water heating: $0.50/kWh of estimated first-year savings
Non-residential solar water heating: up to $0.75/kWh of estimated first-year savings
Large solar water heating and solar HVAC systems: production based incentive
Solar Daylighting: $0.20/kWh estimated first year savings
Grid-tied wind systems (residential and non-residential):$2.25/W
Off-grid wind systems (residential and non-residential):$1.80/W Other renewables: performance-based incentive
Maximum Incentive: PV: 50% of project costs. Up-front incentive payment is limited to $75,000
SWH: 50% of system costs
Eligible System Size: Minimum for off-grid systems: 5 kW
Maximum for large PV: 2 MW
Under the small SWH system incentive, systems must have OG-300 ratings of 10,000 kWh per year energy savings. “Large” SWH systems have minimum 5,000 kWh/yr. estimated energy savings
Equipment Requirements: SWH systems must be certified to SRCC OG-300 standards
Installation Requirements: PV systems must be installed by a licensed contractor holding one or more of the following certifications with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors: C-11, K-11, L-11.
SWH systems must be installed by a licensed contractor holding one or more of the following certifications with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, C-37, C-37R, K-77, K-78, L-77, L-78.
Ownership of Renewable Energy Credits: APS
Funding Source: RES Surchage
Web Site: http://www.aps.com/main/green/choice/choice_23.html?source=hme
Summary:

Through the Renewable Incentive Program, Arizona Public Service (APS) offers customers who install various renewable energy sources the opportunity to sell the credits associated with the energy generated to APS. Previously, APS only provided incentives for solar technologies, but they expanded the list of qualified renewables in 2008 to include all technologies eligible for Arizona’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES). The solar technologies eligible for a rebate include photovoltaic (PV), solar hot water, solar HVAC and solar daylighting systems. Up-front incentives for PV may be de-rated based on expected performance. Renewable energy systems are eligible for the following credit amounts:

  • Grid-tied PV (residential): $.60
  • Grid-tied PV (non-residential): Upto $1.75
  • Off-grid PV (residential): $1.50
  • Off-grid PV (non-residential): $1.35
  • Solar hot water systems (residential): $0.50/kWh estimated first-year energy savings based on OG-300 ratings, up to 50% of the system’s cost.
  • Solar hot water systems (commercial): Up to $0.75/kWh estimated first-year energy savings based on OG-300 ratings for small systems. For large SWH systems, customers can receive $0.45/kWh estimated first year energy savings, or may choose a 10, 15 or 20 year PBI. Incentives are limited to 50% of total system cost.
  • Solar HVAC systems (non-residential only):The incentive for the thermal energy delivered for cooling by a solar HVAC system is based on actual performance and ranges between $0.12/kWh-equivalent and $0.16.kWh equivalent. In addition, systems that incorporate solar thermal heating and/or solar thermal water heating are eligible for the large solar water heating PBI.
  • Solar Daylighting (non-residential only): $0.20/kWh anticipated first year savings.
  • Other solar technologies (non-residential only): PBI amount varies by contract length and technology.
  • Grid-tied wind systems (residential and non-residential):$2.25/W up to 50% of the system cost or $75,000; non-residential systems may opt for the PBI
  • Off-grid wind systems (residential and non-residential):$1.80/W up to 50% of the system cost or $75,000; non-residential systems may opt for the PBI
  • Other renewables installed by non-residential customers can apply to receive a PBI. APS will evaluate the project to determine if it is able to qualify renewable energy incentives.

APS recently established a net metering pilot program for systems of 100 kW-DC or less. Click here for more information.

Funds are assigned through a reservation process. All necessary forms can be downloaded from the program website.

APS is purchasing solar credits and renewable energy certificates to help the company meet the state’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES). Participating customers receive a one-time rebate or receive an incentive based on system output or kWh savings. APS will have access to the credits for the life of the RES program.


Contact:

Credit Purchase Program Customer Service Line
Arizona Public Service Company
Solar Energy Services
Mail Station 3161
P.O. Box 53933
Phoenix, AZ 85072-3999
Phone: (602) 328-1924
Fax: (602) 250-2724
E-Mail: renewables@aps.com

Residential Services


4 Easy Ways To Save Money On Your Electric Bill

Solar System by Arizona Energy Pros

Arizona Solar Pros manages everything you need to reduce your electric bill and power your home with solar energy. We offer everything from LOW COST energy efficiency solutions to high-end solar systems. We can help you finance or lease your solar installation. Here are the steps to get started.

1) – Get an Energy Audit!

For just $99, the APS and SRP Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® inspection will identify improvements that can increase your indoor comfort and decrease energy costs. In most cases, minor repairs and improvements can increase your efficiency by as much as 20%!

Every home is unique and solar technology does not make sense for everyone. In order to determine if solar makes sense for your home, an Energy Consultant will meet with you to understand your energy needs and financial goals; collect 12 months of energy bills to determine how much energy your home is using; find out how much space is available to deploy solar. Finally, many of the incentives are tax based; so we will need to understand your tax situation.

Call 480-420-7869 to set up a home performance checkup.

2) - Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Once all of the information has been collected, Arizona Energy Pros we will prepare a complete energy analysis of your home, including annual cost savings & payback calculations. We will also identify the rebates, tax credits, grants, and depreciation that significantly decreases the net cost of your energy efficiency installation. Below is a list of energy efficiency upgrades you can do to your home:

Call 480-420-7869 to talk to an energy expert.

3) - Purchase a Solar System

A high quality solar system starts with good design. Our engineering team will custom design your solar power system based on your facility’s architecture, and electrical needs. Arizona Solar Pros will work with the solar equipment manufacturers with the latest technology to design high performance solar systems. The design process includes:

  • An in depth engineering and logistical analysis.
  • Electrical design.
  • Structural analysis and design if needed.
  • Drawing submission to the permitting authorities.
  • Drawing submission to the utility for approval.

We have some of the most competitive prices in the state. Call 480-420-7869 for an energy audit or for a free solar quote.

4) - Lease a Solar System

A Solar Lease with Arizona Energy Pros is a great way to get a solar system with little or no upfront cost. You can gain energy independence, reduce your monthly utility bills and protect yourself from rising energy rates. Solar Leases are smart and affordable. Solar leasing benefits include:

  • No Monthly Payments
  • No Annual Payments
  • Fully Insured
  • Full Warranty
  • Eligible for a government grant
  • Eligible for a utility rebate

You can enjoy the benefits of Energy Independence too. Call now at 480-420-7869 for a free solar quote or to set up an audit.

PROCUREMENT AND INSTALLATION

Arizona Solar Pros professional installation teams will install your system to our high standards. Lead times vary greatly depending on the technology that we will be using, but typically range from 4-12 weeks depending on the size and complexity of your system. We will work closely with you to ensure you understand all the steps along the way. Our project managers oversee all the building permits, inspections and connections to the utility grid.


TEP Reduces Solar Rebate – 2012

Solar System by Arizona Energy Pros

TEP is running out of money for it’s historically generous solar program. TEP announced that the rebate will like stay at it’s $0.75 per watt incentive level. That’s amongst the lowest rebate in the state.

Solar incentives offered by Tucson Electric Power Co. (TEP)—at least in terms of commercial installations—have really taken off. Meanwhile, residential installations under the incentive programs are still somewhat behind. As such, the utility is seeking to reduce the total amount of solar incentives it offers for commercial developments in 2012, while leaving the amount for residential installations the same. That’s despite proposing to spend $8 million more on solar in 2012 than in 2011.

Tucson Electric Power Co. is asking state regulators to lower subsidies for residential customers who install solar arrays, saying the utility is running out of funding for the rebates amid a surge in demand.

Nearly 1,100 local homeowners have reserved TEP’s SunShare rebates for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems this year, surpassing the total number of residential solar power systems completed over the previous nine years combined, TEP said.

Solar installers are wary of the reduced incentive plan and caution that the steep reduction in commercial incentives could hurt the market.

“When they’re trying to fulfill their mandate, it doesn’t seem to me it’s in the interest of the whole spirit of it to put the kibosh on commercial [development],” Charlie O’Dowd, president of Abco/Westcap Solar told the Arizona Daily Star.


Rebates

Arizona Solar Rebates

SOLAR Rebates & Tax Incentives

You can expect to get back 50% – 75% of your money back from tax credits and utility rebates on a solar installation and energy efficiency upgrades.

Government and Utility Renewable Energy Incentives

There are many incentives available to encourage business owners to invest in renewable energy. These incentives come from federal, state, and local governments, as well as utilities. Incentives vary by state and utility program. These programs are designed to reward early investors of solar power. We’ll even file the required utility documents for you. These incentives enable your investment in solar to be profitable. The cost of buying your electricity from a utility supplier will never go down. Produce your own power, lock down your cost, and get returns on your dollar that is second to none. Arizona Solar Pros can help you determine which incentives are available for you. Here’s an informative authority further explaining the information below: www.dsireusa.org

Federal 30% Tax Credit. 

The Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 extended the solar tax credit until December 31, 2016. In February 2009, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 removed the maximum credit amount for all eligible technologies. You now get a 30% Federal Tax Credit with no cap.

Federal 30% Grant 

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, H.R.1, included a Federal Grant for commercial solar systems. For 2009 and 2010 projects, solar projects that are eligible for depreciation or amortization (typically those owned by corporate tax filers) can receive a 30% upfront cash grant in lieu of the 30% tax credit. The Treasury Department administers the solar grant program and is required to pay out each solar grant within 60 days of the receipt of each application [not subject to federal tax [Section 1104]. The treasury grant can be assigned. Projects must be completed by 2016, but must be started in 2010.

Utility Rebates  

Rebates from utilities pay for as much as 60% of the cost of the system. Add in tax breaks, and that number can be as much as 85%. Rebates come in various forms depending on the utility company. Arizona Solar Pros can help you determine what is available for you, and then apply for the rebates.

Federal Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) 

Under the Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS), 26 USC § 168, businesses can recover investments in solar property through depreciation deductions. The MACRS establishes a set of class lives for various types of property, ranging from three to 50 years, over which the property may be depreciated. The current MACRS lifetime class is five years. The depreciation cost basis is 85% of the cost of the system, or the system cost less ½ of the 30% federal tax credit or grant.

Section 179 Deduction and Bonus Depreciation 

The ‘Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act’ of 2010 passed on a bipartisan Senate vote of 68-29 extending the enhanced Section 179 deductions of 2008 / 2009 into 2010. Businesses can now write-off up to $250,000 of qualified property during the 2010 tax year – subject to a phase-out if a business has capital expenditures exceeding $800,000. Please Note – The HIRE Act does not extend the 50% bonus depreciation that was available in the 2009 tax year. (The expired incentive is pending further legislation as the House approved an extension but the Senate has not.)

In conclusion, Arizona Solar Pros will work with your accountant or finance department. We can also help you find a financing solution that will meet your cash flow requirements. In most cases, we can find a solution that is net cash flow positive for the length of the loan or lease. This is an unprecedented opportunity that will pay for your electricity needs for decades.
Here are some websites you can visit to learn more about Arizona Solar Pros, CentroSolar, Rebates, Tax Incentives and Credits and Solar Power in general.

(APS)

http://www.aps.com/main/green/choice/choice_66.html

(SRP)
www.srpnet.com/environment/earthwise/solar/default.aspx

(Florida Solar Energy Center)
www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/

(Data Base of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency)
www.dsireusa.org