Under the terms of Edmond Electric’s wholesale power supply contract, Edmond can allow a maximum cumulative solar capacity of one percent (1%) of the Edmond’s single hour peak load to be installed on its electric distribution system. This capacity is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. If the cumulative generating capacity of solar systems reaches the maximum 1% of Edmond’s single hour peak load, Edmond Electric cannot not allow any new systems to be interconnected to our distribution system.
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Residential solar systems are limited in size of 10 kW and 50 kW for small commercial entities. Larger commercial systems can be approved at the discretion of Edmond Electric's Director.
Under the terms of Edmond Electric’s wholesale power supply contract, Edmond can allow a maximum cumulative distributed generation capacity of one percent (1%) of Edmond’s single hour peak load to be installed on its electric distribution system. This capacity is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. If the cumulative generating capacity of solar systems reaches the maximum 1% of Edmond’s single hour peak load, Edmond Electric cannot allow any new systems to be interconnected to our distribution system.
Under the terms of Edmond Electric’s wholesale power supply contract, Edmond can allow a maximum cumulative distributed generation capacity of one percent (1%) of Edmond’s single hour peak load to be installed on its electric distribution system. This capacity is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. If the cumulative generating capacity of solar systems reaches the maximum 1% of Edmond’s single hour peak load, Edmond Electric cannot allow any new systems to be interconnected to our distribution system.
The first consideration when contemplating a solar system is the age of your roof. Once the solar panels are installed, replacing your roof will require the removal of the solar panels. This will add costs to your roof replacement. If you need a new roof or have roof damage, the solar panel installation should be delayed until these repairs are made. Generally, you should have at least 10 years of life left on the roofing to commit to a solar installation. If reroofing, you should try to match the expected life of your roof compared to the typical 20-25 year life of the solar panels.
Roofs come in many different shapes and sizes. Before any installation, your roof will need to be evaluated to determine the available space for the solar panels. Vents and other extensions will reduce the available space. Your contractor should assist you with this step and help you determine the size of solar system your roof can accommodate.
Solar panels require specific placement in order to generate the maximum amount of power. Most professionals say that the best placement is to have the panels face south while others say west. Regardless, this information is important for you to determine before the installation starts. Your installer should be able to provide you with a production estimate based upon the orientation and configuration of your roof.
Installing solar panels will increase the weight on the structure of your roof and cause lift when the Oklahoma winds are blowing. To avoid the potential for damage or collapse of your roof, it is required that a professional evaluate your roof to determine if additional support is required to complete the installation. The structural engineer will make sure that your roof can handle the weight of the solar panels and the lift caused by wind based on the desired panel layout and the brand/type of panel chosen. The engineer should also check that the mounting system chosen is adequate for the Edmond area.
Warranties are an important aspect of protecting your solar panels and other related equipment. If anything happens to your solar system, having a warranty helps you to keep the manufacturer and installer accountable. It is important you read and understand the warranties offered with your system. Some common types of warranties include:
- Solar Panel Warranties
- Inverter Warranty
- Battery Warranty
- Installation Warranty
A solar panel generally has two warranties: a performance warranty and a product warranty.
A solar panel’s performance warranty guarantees to output of your panels over their useful life. These typically guarantee around 90% energy production at 10 years and a minimum of 80% at 25 years and may include a guarantee that your system will deliver a predetermined amount of solar energy over a given time period . Make sure you understand your maintenance responsibilities to avoid voiding any performance warranties.
A solar panel’s product warranty insurance covers the integrity of the panel itself, and protects you against problems such as manufacturing defects, environmental issues, premature wear and tear etc. These can vary from 5 to 25 years depending on the manufacturer and may be dependent on the installation conforming to the manufacturer’s recommendations. As with any warranty, it is important that you understand the length of coverage and the specifics of what is covered.
Warranties offered on the inverters will also vary from company to company. Typically, standard “string inverters”, which handle power from a “string” of panels, often have a warranty period of 5 to 10 years. Generic “micro-inverters”, which attach to individual panels, have warranties that can last between 20 and 25 years. Inverter warranties generally cover, material or manufacturing defects and flaws. Inverter warranties generally don’t cover improper installations, normal wear and tear caused by extreme conditions, and improper maintenance.
If equipped with a battery backup, a manufacturer warranty for a home battery system typically lasts 5 to 10 years. These may include a guarantee of amp-hour capacity over the expected life of the battery. These guarantees generally assume proper installation, operation and maintenance based upon the type of battery provided.
This warranty covers situations where the solar panels and related equipment have been installed incorrectly. These types of warranties can generally last from 2 – 10 years. Many of these warranties cover things like, the labor and parts related to repair or replacing elements of the system, roof penetrations, shipping, replacing defective parts, and more. Make sure to ask your contractor what kind of installation warranties they provide. Note that installations not conforming to the manufacturer’s recommendations may void any solar panel, inverter and battery warranties.
In addition to warranties, a homeowner will want to verify that their homeowner’s insurance covers not only any problems that may rise during installation, but also the roof and solar system after the installation is complete. It is important to check with your carrier prior to contracting for a solar system to ensure you have the desired coverage on your solar system.
Many neighborhoods in Edmond have Homeowners’ Association and/or neighborhood covenants. These may restrict the location and orientation of the solar panels and other equipment. Your contractor will need to know any restrictions prior to designing your system.
Just like any major purchase, you will want to shop around, compare offers and look into the contractors providing the system. Before signing any agreement with a contractor, make sure that you’ve researched these companies to ensure that they are reputable and their customers are satisfied. Check their business credentials and experience, for example, ask if they have accreditation from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or other similar accreditations. Choose a contractor that you feel will also be around for the long term. While a solar system usually requires little maintenance, if something stops working, you want your contractor available to fix it under warranty. Once you have shopped around, you can compare quotes, customer reviews, and other information to make the best, informed decision. When you have selected your contractor and have a contract in hand, take time to look it over. A few things you may want to verify are:
- Financing Expectations
- Ownership Expectations
- Performance Expectations
- Warranties and Responsibilities
- Entities that might collect data on your electricity production and usage
- Companies that have access to your electricity production and usage data
If this information is not clearly defined in the contract, you might want to ask the contractor a few clarification questions. Never sign for anything you are not comfortable with!
Proper maintenance is required to keep your solar panels working properly and your roof in good condition. Your contractor should provide you all maintenance procedures prior to installation. Improper maintenance may void any warranties and reduce the life of your system.
Installing a solar system requires your roof be perforated when anchor bolts holding the panel racks are installed. It is important that these perforations be properly sealed to avoid leaks and damage to your home. Another consideration is the panel’s impact on rainwater flow off your roof. Normally, water runs down the roof, into the gutters and out and away from your home. Solar system equipment like racking and wire harnesses can prevent the water from flowing and draining properly and can channel the water into problem areas. This can create leaks and other issues. Make sure your contractor’s installation properly seals the roof and allows for proper water runoff.
Of course, in Oklahoma, the solar system will be exposed to severe weather like lightning storms, high winds, hail, and more. There is a potential for equipment to get damaged during these events. It is important that you understand the warranties on equipment and installation that came with the system as well as what your homeowner’s insurance policy covers to avoid any surprises.
A permit is needed to install solar panels. These systems must be reviewed and approved prior to installation.
Follow the steps below for your solar generation interconnection.
- Verify the City of Edmond is still accepting Distributed Generation Systems Applications by call 405-359-4780.
- Submit the completed Distributed Generation Systems Permit Application with appropriate fees to the Building and Fire Code Services Department, 10 South Littler, (405) 359-4780. Ensure application contain all information listed on the application. Incomplete or partial submissions will not be accepted.
- Execute the Distributed Generation Interconnection Agreement.
- Acquire proper electrical permit from Building and Fire Code Services Department.
- Begin the solar facility installation.
- Pass required inspections and testing on completed system.
- Receive Solar Generation Certificate of Completion authorizing interconnection and parallel operation with Edmond Electric’s distribution system.
- Begin generating electricity!
Any questions should be directed to Building and Fire Code Services Department at 405-359-4780.
- How long has your company been in business?
- How many systems has your company installed locally? In Oklahoma? Nationally?
- Can you provide references of local customers and their contact information? Ask your contractor for references from previous customers, preferably local, who are willing to speak with you and share their experiences. It may help to reach out on social media to see if anyone else has experience with your contractor.
- Can you show me pictures of previous customers’ installations? You will want to see pictures of the panels, racking, equipment wall and any other installed equipment.
- Will your company be installing the PV system?Some companies use subcontractors to perform the installation. If they do, you will also want to get information about the sub-contractor and check their quality of work and customer satisfaction.
- Have you evaluated my roof for structural integrity?A certification by a professional engineer of the structural integrity of your roof is required for the solar permit application. The structural engineer will make sure that your roof can handle the weight of the solar panels and the lift caused by wind based on the desired panel layout and the brand/type of panel chosen. The engineer should also check that the mounting system chosen is adequate for the Edmond area.
- Have you evaluated my roof for Solar Access (shading)? If your home has trees nearby or adjacent tall structures, they may block the sun which will reduce the energy production of your PV system. Solar contractors should take necessary steps to evaluate the impacts of shade on the proposed system and provide annual production estimates that accounts for losses, shading, orientation, and tilt.
- Have you evaluated the condition of my current electrical service and main electrical panel?Contractors will be required to bring your electrical system up to code. This may require a panel upgrade that comes at additional expense. Contractors should evaluate your current service and inform you of any required upgrades upfront.
- What kind of equipment do you plan to install for my project?Module, inverter, and racking system must be certified to the UL 2703, UL 62109, and UL 1741 standards and should only be installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- What are the warranties on the major equipment? Solar panels warranties can be as short as 5 years and up to 25 years. Warranties on inverters will vary as well, depending on the type installed. Ask about extended warranties and read the warranty statements for details. If you are installing a battery backup, expect a warranty of 5 to 10 years. Be aware that not following the manufacturers recommended installation methods may void the equipment warranties.
- What are your warranties on the installation? Your contractor should offer a warranty on their work. These workmanship warranties protect you from labor-related defects arising from the actual installation process. These guarantees usually ensure that the design, assembly, and installation are all done correctly, the system will perform as expected, without malfunction and cover any defects that may arise at no charge. The length and type of coverage will vary between contractors.
- Do you offer a production guarantee? Production guarantees can protect you from performance issues over the life of the system. If offered, these guarantees can be structured in several ways but should guarantee that your system will deliver a predetermined amount of solar energy over a given time period.
- Does the PV system come with monitoring capability? Is that included in the price? Most PV systems have monitoring capability that will inform you on how the system is performing. Different products have different monitoring and reporting features that may or may not come at additional cost.
- What is the projected installation timeline?The installation contract may provide a guaranteed completion date. You may want to ask about penalties if the installation is not completed on time.
- What operational and maintenance information will you provide me?
- Who do I call if I have questions or concerns during the installation process?
- Who do I call if I have questions or concerns post installation?
Residential Service with Distributed Generation
Residential rates are available for customers conforming distributed generation systems. The service must be utilized for residential purposes in individually owned single or two-family dwellings.
The customer's distributed generating installation shall not exceed 10 kW.
Rate R-DG Residential
Basic Customer Charge: $30.00/month
- Energy charge in cents/kWh per meter
Summer Season
(revenue months of June - September)
- First 1,400 kWh/month: $0.0851/metered kWh
- All additional kWh/month: $0.0957/metered kWh
Winter Season
(revenue months of November - April)
- First 600 kWh/month: $0.0851/metered kWh
- All additional kWh/month: $0.0485/metered kWh
Shoulder Season
(revenue months of May & October)
- All kWh/month: $0.0851/metered kWh
Minimum Charge
The minimum monthly charge shall be the Customer Charge plus applicable rate riders.
Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA)
See Standard Pricing Schedule FCA, Rider for Fuel Cost Adjustment.
The Fuel Cost Adjustment will be applied to the new kWh reading over the billing period. Net kWh=the sum, over the billing period, of the electricity supplied to the customer by Edmond Electric (kWh delivered) and the electricity supplied by the customer's distributed generation system back to the Edmond Electric distribution system (kWh received) as measured by the Edmond Electric revenue meter.
Credit for Excess Generation
No credit will be given for excess generation supplied back to the Edmond Electric distribution system from the customer's distributed generation system.
Average Monthly Billing
Service provided under this rate schedule does not qualify for the Average Monthly Billing Program.
Term
Participation in this rate schedule shall continue until termination from the program per the terms and conditions set forth in the “Agreement for the Interconnection of a Customer Owned Distributed Generation System” entered into between the Customer and Edmond Electric. This rate and all associated terms and conditions for service shall be governed by and subject to policies and procedures of the City which may be amended, revised, modified, or repealed at any time by the City, in its sole discretion, without notice to the Customer.
DISCLAIMER:
The City of Edmond ensures that no person or groups of persons shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability/handicap, or income status be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any and all programs, services, or activities administered by the City, its recipients, sub-recipients, and contractors. To request an accommodation, please contact Phil Jones, ADA Coordinator by phone at (405) 359-4518 or by email.General Service with Distributed Generation
Business rates are available for commercial customers requiring either single-phase or three-phase service with a peak demand in any month of less than 50kW. Rate GS-DG Commercial
- Rate ScheduleBasic Customer Charge: $65.00/month
- Energy charge will be applied to all kWh supplied to the customer by Edmond Electric over the billing period as measured by the Edmond Electric revenue meter.
Summer Season
(revenue months of June - October)- All kWh/month: $0.1055/metered kWh
Winter Season
(revenue months of November - May)- First 1000 kWh/month: $0.0908/metered kWh
- All additional kWh/month: $0.0505/metered kWh
Minimum Charge
The minimum monthly charge shall be the Customer Charge plus applicable rate riders.Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA)
See Standard Pricing Schedule FCA, Rider for Fuel Cost Adjustment.
The Fuel Cost Adjustment will be applied to all kWh supplied to the customer by Edmond Electric over the billing period as measured by the Edmond Electric revenue meter.
Credit for Excess Generation
No credit will be given for excess generation supplied back to the Edmond Electric distribution system from the customer's distributed generation system.Average Monthly Billing
The service provided under this rate schedule does not qualify for the Average Monthly Billing Program.Term
Participation in this rate schedule shall continue until termination from the program per the terms and conditions set forth in the “Agreement for the Interconnection of a Customer Owned Distributed Generation System” entered into between the Customer and Edmond Electric. This rate and all associated terms and conditions for service shall be governed by and subject to policies and procedures of the City which may be amended, revised, modified or repealed at any time by the City, in its sole discretion, without notice to the Customer.Edmond Electric may require a written contract for a year or longer, containing minimum guarantees warranted by special circumstances or unusually large investments by Edmond Electric.