Solar Energy

Important!

If you have already contracted with someone, or have decided to install on your own, it is important to contact us prior to installation. This could save you considerable headaches, and possible added costs. (800) 342-0134.

Fact Sheet on Solar Energy

Co-op members exploring solar energy have new options. Members can buy or lease solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on their own rooftop or property (“residential solar”). They also have the option of purchasing power from an array developed by their utility or other entity. Members can choose to offset all of their power use with electricity generated with solar energy, or just a portion.

While members with residential solar arrays often benefit from available tax benefits and incentives, they are also responsible for the system and all the up-front costs, which can be significant. With a battery or energy storage system, some residential solar arrays can provide backup power during extended outages.

Community-owned solar is another increasingly popular option. Under this model, members can purchase the output of panels in large solar arrays built and maintained by the co-op, and receive credit for their portion of the electricity produced. This option almost always offers a better value than residential solar, and it’s a good choice for members whose property isn’t suitable for residential solar.

The cost of installing solar arrays has fallen dramatically, and in some regions with high-cost electricity, solar is a cost-competitive option. It all depends on circumstances.

For the developer, the cost of the array is a combination of initial costs and the operating costs over the projected life of the system, divided by the amount of electricity that system will produce. Systems in different regions of the country will produce differing amounts of energy. Even with the declining costs, many solar systems may take ten years or more to return the investment.

Size matters. Utility-scale solar can take advantage of economies of scale, including stream-lined production, installation and materials. Utility-scale PV systems cost 50 percent less on a dollar-per-kW basis than residential systems. For this reason, community solar options usually offer a better value to co-op members.

Yes, as long as they are properly installed. There are fire risks associated with all electrical systems, including PV systems. Module defects, improper installation or even general wear and tear (visualize rodents chewing through wiring) can lead to fires. But these risks have been addressed in changes to local building and electrical codes. Many co-ops now offer education and training for fire departments.

While the efficiency of PV technologies is improving, because PV cells cannot respond to the entire spectrum of sunlight; up to 55% of the sun’s energy is wasted. The amount of energy produced by any given PV panel depends on four factors: the PV cell efficiency, the temperature response of the cells, the module layout and the anti-reflective coating. Residential solar arrays should use high efficiency modules, which allow more power to be installed in a smaller area.

For decades electricity has, essentially, traveled a one-way street from the power plant to the end-user. That is changing as technological advances enable end-users to send power from solar arrays, bio-digesters, small wind turbines back onto the grid. Energy storage and micro-grids are also changing how the grid operates. These changes are driving efforts nationwide to modernize the grid and create a system that is more dynamic and resilient.

Feeding the grid large amounts of electricity generated from sun and wind poses some challenges. Experience shows that increases in solar and other intermittent generation affect power plants that may have to slow or shut down in response to the drop in demand. This rapid cycling stresses the power plant. In one study a 30 % increase in wind energy increased maintenance costs of a 400 MW coal-fired power plant by $2 million a year.

There are many different technologies for storing energy, including new residential battery options for adventurous consumers. Not only are the technology and applications for energy storage evolving rapidly, the costs are also coming down. But overall this industry is still in the early stages. One thing we know for sure: the energy storage marketplace will look vastly different in a few short years.

And what about solar water heating?

Members can also take advantage of solar energy by using the sun to heat their water. Solar water heating (SWH), a technique that runs water through a tube covered in a heat absorbing material located in a sunny place, is not tied to the electrical system and does not generate electricity. SWH and PV panels are not mutually exclusive and can be used together.

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Solar Agreement Distributed Generation Agreement

This agreement sets the terms for customers generating their own solar power and connecting to the electric grid. It covers how generated energy is managed and ensures safe, compliant operation with the utility.

Have you decided that you will be attaching Solar Energy to our system?

The agreement below outlines our requirements and must be completed in advance of installation. Canoochee EMC members should have a discussion with one of our solar experts prior to signing any documents from a solar contractor. We want to make sure our members understand solar, and how it will affect power bills. We want what is best for you. Click here for more information.

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10 Steps Before Installing Solar

Before installing solar, assess your energy needs, roof condition, and local regulations.

Research system types, incentives, and financing options. Get a site assessment, compare installers, and understand net metering.

Annual Meeting 2025:

Solar Energy

Important!

And what about solar water heating?

Solar Agreement Distributed Generation Agreement

10 Steps Before Installing Solar

Rooftop Solar Assessment - Is it Right for Me?

Office Locations

Quick Links

Follow Us on Social Media

Annual Meeting 2025:

Important!

How can I benefit from solar energy?

Can I benefit from solar even if I live in Southeast, Georgia?

What is the value of electricity generated by solar?

What is an inverter and why do I need one?

How long do PV panels last?

Are PV panels safe?

Are all PV panels created equal?

Are PV panels environmentally friendly?

Can PV panels be recycled?

Can too much solar be a bad thing for the power grid?

Can solar energy be stored?

And what about solar water heating?

Solar Agreement Distributed Generation Agreement

Office Locations

Quick Links

Follow Us on Social Media