Yes! Owners of solar, also referred to as alternative energy production facilities (such as solar photovoltaic and wind turbines) are highly recommended to notify their utility company, which includes Jackson County REMC, of plans to construct, install and operate any system that will be connected to the utility’s systems. Utility systems include electric transmission lines, distribution lines, or attached equipment. Talk to Jackson County REMC about filling out an interconnection application in advance of purchasing or installing any solar equipment.

To ensure reliable and uninterrupted power, individual renewable systems typically must be balanced with a continuous source of dependable power from central station generation. It is rare for individuals who want continuous and reliable electricity to be completely off the grid. Backup generation in the form of a gas-powered generator, battery bank, or some other storage technology is needed if the consumer desires a continuous supply of power but is no longer on the grid. Backup systems can be more expensive and less reliable than currently available central station generation provided by an electricity provider using the grid.

It is the sole responsibility of the member-owner to determine if owning a solar system is a good investment. Jackson County REMC does not provide financial assistance with the analysis. However, we have created this reference information to help members-owners understand the complexity of owning a solar system before deciding.

No matter the size of the system or the power output, consumers are highly recommended to notify their electric cooperative of plans to construct, install and operate any system that will be connected to the cooperative’s systems (electric transmission lines, distribution lines, or attached equipment). Talk to Jackson County REMC about filling out an interconnection application in advance of purchasing or installing any solar equipment. To participate in our “Purchase Offer R” an interconnection agreement is also required prior to operating the system.

Solar energy production is at its highest on a sunny day; cloudy skies can significantly impact production. Research shows that production may drop 60-70 percent or more on a cloudy day versus a mostly sunny day. Learn more.

Yes! We want to be your trusted source when it comes to renewable energy. Jackson County REMC fully supports renewable energy and responsible environmental policies that balance the needs of the environment while providing affordable, safe, and reliable power. Along with Hoosier Energy, Jackson County REMC’s power supplier and 17 other local electric cooperatives, we have invested millions of dollars into renewable resources, such as wind, solar, hydro, and landfill methane gas into our portfolios Hoosier Energy and their member cooperatives have built 10MW of solar projects throughout southern Indiana. Each solar facility produces enough power in a year to serve 150 average cooperative homes.

Jackson County REMC will purchase excess energy produced at an “avoided cost” basis. (see Purchase Offer R for details) You WILL NOT be paid our retail rate.

Peak production for solar generation is typically between 2-4 p.m. and consumer electric use generally peaks in the early evening, which means there is a mismatch between energy production and energy consumption. To maximize the potential benefits of solar, it is important to size the system properly and invest in the technology that coincides with providing the most output during your peak-use period.

• What is the total installed cost of the system?
• Do you propose a roof mount or ground mount system? What are the differences in cost, maintenance, space, etc…?
  
• If a roof mount system is recommended do I need a new roof or does my existing roof have an adequate lifespan?
  
• How much of my energy use would my solar system provide?
  
• How much would my monthly energy bills be after installation?
  
• How long would my payback period be on my solar system? What are the key assumptions associated with my payback
  that may impact that result?
  
• How will solar affect my homeowner’s insurance?

• If my energy use changes, will I be able to add more panels later?
  
• Will I need a new roof for any reason to install and utilize these solar panels i.e., weight, lifespan remaining?
  
• Who is responsible for maintaining or replacing the solar panels or electronics?
  
• If these panels or the installation damage my property, who is responsible?
  
• In which country are the solar panels and inverters you are selling made?
  
• What kind of warranties do the solar panels and inverters have? When does equipment typically need to be replaced?
  
• How long will the installation take?
  
• What kind of battery storage does your system use? What is the typical life span of the batteries and how much do they cost?

• When was your company established and how much solar has it installed to date? (Ask for references.)
  
• Does your company have a standard insurance certificate with adequate general liability coverage of $1 million or more? (Ask to see it)
  
• Does your company have professional liability insurance? (Ask to see it)
  
• Are your solar installers North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Electric trained and certified?
  
• Do you have an Indiana licensed professional engineer and master electrician on staff to review and approve drawings, obtain permits, and supervise electrical work? Will you handle that paperwork?
  
• Are you accredited with the Better Business Bureau? If so, what is your rating? Has the Better Business Bureau contacted you with any complaints?
  
• Will you complete all the paperwork associated with financing, tax credits, and/or grants? Does that cost extra?
  
• Do you work with any affiliated companies or sub-contractors?
  
• Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your installation work? If so for how long and what does it cover?