The commercial solar interconnection and rebate application process is being revised in early 2023 to the newly adopted PowerClerk platform. Stay tuned for an updated link to PowerClerk. It will also feature a ‘pre-application’ feasibility module to manage your early inquiries into Light & Power Engineering to vet site location and system size (solar hosting capacity) of your proposed commercial PV and/or energy storage system.
Go Solar in 2023#
Commercial Solar Rebate Program#
Fort Collins Utilities supports customers generating their own renewable energy using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The Commercial Solar Rebate Program provides incentives and guidance to help make sure each project is a success.
Applications for the 2023 Commercial Solar Rebate Program are now being accepted.
Commercial customers can receive rebates up to $50,000. Rebate amounts are calculated based on $0.50/Watt of DC system generation capacity and include a 20-year Renewable Energy Credit (REC) assignment to Fort Collins Utilities. See eligibility requirements below for more details.
Rebate Eligibility#
- Must be a Fort Collins Utilities electric customer. View the City of Fort Collins Electric Service Area Map.
- PV system must be sized greater than 500 watts and less than the capacity to provide 120 percent of average annual energy use over the previous 24 months.
- Systems must meet Utilities Interconnection Standards (PDF 353KB).
- Equipment must be new and UL listed and named on the eligible equipment list.
- The system cannot be shaded between 9 a.m.-3 p.m. If questionable, the applicant must submit shading analysis (check with your solar contractor).
- Customer agrees to manage trees and other potential shading sources to prevent shading from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- System orientation must achieve a minimum of 90 percent of estimated ideal annual output for full rebate allowance.
- The system must be installed within six months of the rebate reservation letter.
Solar Rebate Application#
- Solar Contractors submit the Distributed Energy Interconnection Application, along with supporting documents as outlined in the application.
- The customer must review and acknowledge Fort Collins Utilities' interconnection and policies on page 4 of the application.
- Note that the application workbook contains the rebate applications for both commercial and residential projects. For commercial solar projects, disregard all references to "Participating Solar Contractor" and to energy audit requirements.
Bill Credits#
Understanding Net Metering Credits - Click to Enlarge
When you generate solar power, any energy you don't use immediately flows back into the electric grid. Fort Collins Utilities pays for the energy returned to the grid through net metering credits on your monthly utility bill (see infographic) based on the current commercial rates.
C-PACE Announcements#
Did You Know?
Installing high-efficiency refrigeration equipment at your business, such as zero-energy doors and anti-sweat heater controls (rebates available), can save money.
Turning off the faucet while shaving or brushing teeth saves water.
Using an ENERGY STAR® programmable thermostat or wifi thermostat can help you better control your home's comfort and utility costs.