Solar Rebate Program FAQs

Where can I find more information about solar photovoltaic technologies?

What is the maximum size PV system I can install?

Fort Collins policy limits net metering to 10 kilowatts for residential customers. The rebate is limited to $2 per Watt for a maximum of 2,000 Watts or $4,000.

What happens if the rebates run out?

Current funding for solar rebates is $50,000. We have some ability to augment these funds and cover a few more applicants this year, if need be, and we expect to offer solar rebates in 2009. Applicants on the wait list can choose to be included in next year’s program.

Do I have to use a qualified installer?

Yes. For your protection, only systems installed by a qualified (COSEIA or NABCEP certified) installer would be qualified for a rebate. If you are considering doing some of the installation project yourself, you will need to provide a statement signed by a certified PV installer that indicates that your system adheres to industry standard practice.

What happens to the Renewable Energy Credits for my PV system?

As part of the rebate, you will be required to assign your Renewable Energy Credits (RECs or Green Tags) for the rebated portion of your system to Fort Collins Utilities with a Renewable Energy Certificate contract.

Will the rebate program be extended?

We expect to continue the program in 2009, but Fort Collins Utilities reserves the right to discontinue this program when the funding is depleted or end of the calendar year, whichever comes first.

Do I have to be tied to the electric grid to be eligible for a rebate?

Yes. Your system must be grid-tied and you must be an existing Fort Collins Utilities electric customer.

Do I have to get an energy audit?

Yes. To be eligible for a rebate, you will have to provide an “on-site” and “documented” energy audit. This may be provided by Fort Collins Utilities or other approved auditors. The completed energy audit is not required to apply for the rebate program but will need to be scheduled after you are awarded a rebate and if you chose to go ahead with your PV installation. When considering the sizeable investment in a PV system, you should seriously examine your electric energy usage. When combined with common sense energy conservation and efficiency measures, photovoltaic systems can significantly offset your individual electric energy use.

Can I save money on my energy bill with a PV system?

While PV systems deliver clean energy and offset your electric use from conventional power plants, even with rebates, PV systems are expensive and can take many years to pay for themselves. Consult your solar contractor for a payback estimate.

The application mentions, “assignment of rebate to installer.” What is that about?

Under some circumstances it may be to your advantage to assign your rebate to your installer to reduce the delivered price of the system to take better advantage of Federal renewable energy tax credits – consult your solar contractor and/or tax accountant.

I already have a PV system – can I apply for a rebate?

Only new PV systems installed after August 15, 2008 are eligible to apply for this rebate program.

My proposed site doesn’t quite meet the program requirements for orientation and shading – Can I still apply?

We may accept applications for systems that don’t entirely meet the performance guidelines of the program. We may apply a prorated rebate to adjust for the reduced performance of the system due to less than optimal orientation or shading. Fort Collins Utilities reserves the right to exclude systems that are likely to perform substantially below the program guidelines.

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