Modesto Irrigation Distric - Solar Photovoltaic Program 2015

8/9/2019 Modesto Irrigation Distric - Solar Photovoltaic Program 2015

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Table of Contents

Overview ........................................................................... 1

MID Incentives ................................................................................ 1

Incentive Program Details ................................................ 2

Energy Usage Calculations ................................................................. 2

Requirements .................................................................................. 3

Other Funding and/or Incentives ........................................................ 7

Reservation Approval Process ............................................................ 8

Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates ................................................ 9

Permanency .................................................................................... 9

System Completion ......................................................................... 10

Solar PV Incentive Program Flow Chart .............................................. 11

Systems Ineligible for Incentive ..................................... 13

Requirements ................................................................................. 13

Approval Process for Leased or PPA Systems ....................................... 15

Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates ............................................... 16

Permanency ................................................................................... 16

Requirements for All PV Systems .................................... 17

Application Package Requirements ..................................................... 17

Grid Interconnection ........................................................................ 18

Electrical Interconnection and Net Metering Agreements ....................... 18

MID Engineering and Meter Department Approval ................................ 18

Third-Party Field Verification & Diagnostic Testing ................................ 18

Field Verification Visual Inspection ..................................................... 19

Accounting for Actual Shading ........................................................... 22

Verification of System Performance .................................................... 23

Common Issues .............................................................. 26


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MID Solar PV Handbook Page 1 effec tive 01/01/2015

OverviewSolar Photovoltaic (PV) systems are available for most Modesto Irrigation Districts(MID) electric customers. PV systems may be obtained by purchase or may be leasedor rented. Power purchase agreements (PPA) may also be available. MID offersincentives to customers who purchase a PV system (limited to available funding).

Leased, rented and PPA systems are not eligible for MID incentive programs.

An Interconnection Review Fee is required for all PV systems (includes purchases,leased, rented, PPA and additions to existing PV systems). The fee must be includedwith the reservation (application) packet. See MID Electric Service Rules AppendixA for fee amount(s).

MID Incent ives

The MID Solar PV Incentive Programs provide financial incentives for the installation ofgrid-interconnected eligible solar PV systems. This handbook describes therequirements to receive incentives for qualified installations within Modesto Irrigation

Districts electric service territory.

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis for applicants who submitcomplete and accurate reservation requests. 2015 incentives become availablestarting January 5th and will be suspended when the program is fully subscribed.Reservations are limited to one Solar PV system per service per calendar year.Customers may submit a reservation request for additions to their solar PV systemafter a minimum of 12 months service (after interconnection of the previous PVsystem).

Funding for the program is provided by Modesto Irrigation District ratepayers inaccordance with the eligibility requirements established under SB1.

Systems less than 1 kWAC-CSIand systems greater than 30 kWAC-CSIdo not qualify forthe 2015 MID Solar PV Incentive Program. A one-time Expected Performance-BasedIncentive (EPBI) is available to all MID metered electric customers. Rebates arelimited to a maximum of 5 kW ac-csi or a system sized to offset 100% of thecustomers load (whichever is less).

In order to receive an incentive payment from Modesto Irrigation District, the systemmust have an approved reservation prior to system installation. Any system that has

been installed prior to receiving a reservation confirmation is ineligible for incentivepayments.

Incentive payments are made to the customer / property owner and are nottransferable to new owners, contractors or other third parties.


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Incentive Program DetailsThe MID Solar PV Incentive Program provides incentives for residential and non-residential customers for both new and existing structures. For all projects, energyefficiency, the expected performance of the system, as well as the design andinstallation of the system, will determine the incentive amount.

Systems approved after July 20, 2009 are subject to a maximum incentive of 50% ofeligible project cost.

Systems approved after January 1, 2015 are limited based on the least of thefollowing:

Maximum incentive of 50% of eligible project cost,

5 kWAC-CSI, or

Sized to offset 100% of the customers energy usage.

The EPBI is paid once the system is installed, operational and has met all program

requirements. The incentive amount is based on the CSI calculation worksheet(www.csi-epbb.com).

For all larger systems, over 30 kWAC-CSI (up to 1,000 kWAC-CSI), the incentives havebeen suspended.

Energy Usage Calculations

Energy usage is determined by MID staff based on the annual average of the last 24month energy usage. If this data is not available the maximum system size will bedetermined using one of the following methods:

Last 12 month energy usage,

24 month energy usage for current and prior tenant

Monthly energy usage average (minimum 6 months usage required).

New construction energy usage may also be estimated based on square footageof home.


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Requirements

The solar PV system must be installed and verified as specified in this handbook andthe MID Electric Service Guide. MID reserves the right to periodically review andmake changes to program standards and to determine final program eligibility.

To qualify for an incentive, both the building and the installed PV system must meet

the following program requirements included in this handbook.

Eligibility

The electrical service for the building must receive retail electricity distribution serviceat the site of installation from Modesto Irrigation District. The following conditionsmust also be met:

Rebates are eligible only to customers in good financial standing with MID(subject to MID approval).

Landlords may apply for MID solar rebates if they and the tenant (MID customerof record) are in good financial standing with MID. The customer of record will

receive all net metering and excess generation benefits. The landlord(purchaser) of the PV system will receive the MID incentive.

Solar PV systems where MID has built an electrical line extension (MID Rule 15)to serve a new load within the last three years are not eligible for Solar PVrebates.

Systems must be owned by the Modesto Irrigation Districts electric customerand/or the property owner. Leased and/or performance based projects, powerpurchase agreements and non-owned systems are NOT eligible for an incentive.

Eligible PV systems must be installed on the property that is owned by the MIDcustomer of record.

Qualifying manufactured mobile or modular homes must demonstratepermanency by being installed on a foundation with a reasonable expected life

span of 20 years and where the home and the property are owned by the MIDcustomer of record.

Previously owned equipment is ineligible for MID incentives.

Reservation Requests

MID will only accept the most current version of the Solar PV Rebate ReservationRequest Form/Program Contract. See www.mid.org to assure your ReservationRequest is the most current version. Applicants are strongly encouraged to keepcopies of all Reservation Requests and supporting documentation submitted to

Modesto Irrigation District or its agents.

Systems installed prior to receiving a reservation approval letter are ineligible forincentives.


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Projected MID incentives should not be itemized in the project cost.

All documentation must be legible. All documents must be signed by thecustomer/owner.

Incentive Rate

Incentive rate is determined by the system size and the Reservation Request approvaldate.

Incomplete Reservation Package

Solar PV packagesare reviewed in the order they are received. MID will notify thecontractor of any missing or incorrect documents in the file. All requireddocumentation must be received within 30 calendar days of the original applicationdate.

Incomplete Solar PV packages may not be accepted and may be returned to thecustomer.

Resubmitted application packages will be treated as new applications (i.e., all requireddocuments and fees must be submitted) and processed in sequence along with othernew applications.

System Size

System size is determined by the Go Solar California EPBB Calculator (www.csi-epbb.com).

The solar PV system must have a minimum capacity rating of 1 kWAC-CSI.Maximum capacity rating is 30 kWAC-CSI.

Customer is determined by MID Account Number, MID Meter Number andFederal Tax Identification Number(s).

Reservation Requests for service(s) with existing PV system(s) will includegeneration history when calculating incentive eligibility.

In the case of existing loads, customer electrical needs are defined as 24-monthannual average billing usage (history). If 24-month usage history is notavailable, MID may determine system a reasonable usage history for thepurpose of system sizing (current/prior tenant or estimation based on squarefootage of home/business).

For new loads, customer electrical needs (annual kWh) are determined by MIDusing Title 24 information, Energy Simulation software, or other like customer

usage. Maximum system size cannot exceed 100% of MID calculation of annualenergy for new construction projects.

MID reserves the right to determine maximum system size eligible for incentive.

Premises with multiple electric meters will be limited to one PV system permeter. MID will not increase transformer/service capacity to facilitate PVgeneration under this program.

The solar PV system must be interconnected to the utility distribution grid andgenerate electricity to offset the end-use consumers on-site electrical load.


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The solar PV system must be located on the same premises of the end-useconsumer where the consumers own electrical demand is located.

Where multiple PV systems are installed, separate monitoring systems must bemaintained for each installation.

Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobilestructure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must be

approved by the building code enforcement agency before any incentivepayment is made.

Systems must be installed in conformance with the manufacturersspecifications and all applicable electrical and building codes and standards.

All systems must be inspected by a certified contractor (written verificationrequired for system approval).

Solar installers must have an active A or C-10 license to install solar PVsystem 20kW CEC-AC or greater. Acceptable licenses for all other systemsinclude active A, C-10,B, or C-46.

Systems must be installed by an appropriately licensed contractor, in

accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the California ContractorsState License Board.

MID requires the installation of MID performance (generation) meter measuringthe alternating current output of the PV system.

Systems must meet MID standards. See the MID Electric Service Guide forcomplete details.

Failed MID Inspection

If a project fails an MID inspection, the contractor has a maximum of 30 calendardays to make the required modifications to meet MID requirements and to pass afollow-up MID inspection. Re-inspection fee may apply for each failed inspection.

PV System

The solar PV system must use new certified components that have not beenpreviously placed in service and are on the Energy Commissions list of eligibleequipment.

All systems must have a minimum 10-year warranty provided in combination bythe manufacturer and installer to protect against defective workmanship,system or component breakdown or degradation in electrical output of morethan 10% from the originally rated electrical output during the 10-year period.

The warranty must cover the solar generating system, including PV modules(panels), inverters, and trackers, and provide for no-cost repair or replacementof the system or system components, including any associated labor during thewarranty period.

The solar PV system is intended to stay in place for a minimum of 20 years.

Sale and/or transfer of energy output to third parties is prohibited.

Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobilestructure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must be


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approved by the building code enforcement agency before any incentivepayment is made.

New Construction

New construction projects include gut and rehabs, homes and businesses installingsolar. MID may not set the solar PV generation meter (thus allowing credit for solar

generation) until the home or building demonstrate normal occupancy and operation.New residential and non-residential buildings must achieve energy efficiency levelssubstantially greater than the requirements of the current Building Energy EfficiencyStandards Title 24, Part 6, also known as Title 24 + 15% Modesto Irrigation Districtplaces great importance on ensuring that buildings, which qualify for an incentiveunder the Program, are as energy efficient as possible.

The minimal energy efficiency requirements include an energy audit or proof of Title24 compliance, efficiency upgrades, and potential commitments to enact theupgrades. For large Non-residential projects, retro-commissioning may also berequired.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Modesto Irrigation District to inquireabout new construction energy efficiency rebates.

PV System Modification

The installation of additional panels or other system modifications without MIDapproval is prohibited. MID reserves the right to inspect and verify all interconnectedsystems at any time.

Failure to notify MID of PV system modification(s) may terminate participation in theMID Solar PV Incentive Program and may affect interconnection eligibility. MID mustbe notified of all solar PV installations and /or modifications. Any change inapplication sizing after the submittal of an application, no matter how small, up ordown, will require a revised application, interconnection agreement, site plan, singleline diagram and EPBB worksheets.

Incentive will be re-evaluated as follows:

A revised reservation request packet must be submitted with all supportingdocumentation prior to request for interconnection.

If the installed system exceeds the reserved system size, the incentive will becapped as the reserved system size.

If the installed system is less the reserved system size, the incentive will berecalculated based on installed system size.

The incentive will not be issued until all required documentation is received. If therequired documentation is not received within 30 calendar days of interconnection willno longer be eligible for incentive.


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Existing PV Systems - The customer may submit a Reservation Request for anincentive after the existing system has been operational for 12 months. Theadditional panels may be connected to the existing inverter and/or generation meter.

Eligible Project Costs

Only those portions of a solar PV generating system that convert the energy source to

electricity and the related power conditioning and control systems are eligible to becovered by the MID Solar PV Incentive Program. (All final project invoices must beitemized as a condition of the incentive).

Eligible costs include:

Installation costs including any applicable license fees, permit fees and salestaxes

Engineering costs and design, not to exceed 10% of total system cost

The following specific components and equipment: The photovoltaic cells,modules, mounting or tracking structures, wiring, inverters, performancemeters, foundation (for free-standing system) and utility-required

interconnection equipment.

Ineligible costs include:

Equipment for storage of the electricity produced (such as batteries)

Cost of capital

Cost of tools

Tree trimming or other landscaping costs

Roofing, re-roofing, roof repairs or reinforcement

Relocating vent pipes, HVAC or other equipment

New structures or reinforcement of existing structures for fixed array PVsystems, with the exception of the racking and mounting components necessaryfor tilt or securing of the PV panels, with the sole purpose to elevate the arrays,or to serve as a multi-function structure such as covered parking.

Other Funding and/or Incentives

Funding and/or incentives received from sources other than the MID Solar PV Programthat lowers the cost of the PV system may affect the incentive amount applicants

receive.

Funds received from sources other than MID rebate programs that lower the cost ofthe project may affect the incentive amount applicants receive. These sources includeall third-party energy efficiency programs offering direct funding, financing or rebates(other than tax credits). The funded amount(s) will be deducted from the actual anddocumented Project Cost as it relates to the MID criteria and the maximum accruedrebate will not exceed 50% of net Project Costs. Applicants are required to inform MIDof any other incentives for which they have applied and/or may receive.

Failure to notify MID of other funding, grants or incentives will void the ReservationRequest and require the reimbursement of all incentives paid to date.


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Note to contractors:Contractors with the required licensing are encouraged to participate in MID rebate programs.

If information on an application or supporting documentation includes misleading or fraudulentdata, the rebate may be denied and the contractor may not be allowed to participate in MID rebateprograms.

Applicants are required to inform the District of any other incentives for which theyhave applied and/or may receive.

Reservation Approval Process

This section describes the process required to reserve funding from the Modesto

Irrigation District Rebate program. A rebate acceptance letter provides assurance thatreserved funds will be available when a request for payment is made.

Once the system owner has decided to install a solar system and has an executedcontract with their system installer, the Reservation Application Package is submitted.

Once the reservation request is approved, an acceptance letter confirming theincentive amount and reservation expiration date will be issued. The reservation willexpire 120 days after the approval letter is issued to the customer. The system mustbe purchased, installed, and MID must receive a copy of the final approved permit theReservation Expiration Date to remain eligible for incentive.

Program reservation requirements and expiration dates will be strictly enforced.

Systems installed without reservation approval or prior to reservation approval areineligible for MID incentive.

Where to Send Reservation Packets

Reservation packets may be submitted in person, or may be mailed directly to MID.Incomplete packets will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant.

Office Address and mailing address:

Modesto Irrigation DistrictAttn: Solar PV Program1231 11thStP.O. Box 4060Modesto, CA 95352-4060

Systems must be interconnected by the expiration date to qualify for incentive.Projects in the process of interconnection as described above may be granted anextension (subject to MID approval).


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MID will exercise their judgment in assessing fraud, which can occur due to grossnegligence or intentional submission of inaccurate system information in an attempt tocollect more incentive dollars. The responsible party will be immediately prohibitedfrom participating in the program.

Cost Verification

Modesto Irrigation District reserves the right to conduct spot checks to verify thatpayments were made as identified in the final invoices or agreements provided byequipment sellers and/or installers. As part of these spot checks, Modesto IrrigationDistrict may require applicants to submit copies of cancelled checks, credit cardstatements, or equivalent documentation to substantiate payments made to theequipment seller and/or installer. (When submitting this documentation, applicantsare encouraged to remove their personal account numbers or other sensitiveinformation identified in the documentation.)

Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates

As a condition of MID system incentives, customer agrees that MID retains all rights

and ownership to renewable energy credits (RECs) or certificates for greenhouse gasemissions and other future renewable and/or environmental credits or certificatesfor as long as the PV system is interconnected to the MID distribution system. MIDmay trade and/or utilize these credits as deemed necessary and valuable for thebenefit of all MID ratepayers.

Permanency

Equipment is intended to be in place for the duration of its useful life. Onlypermanently installed systems are eligible for incentives. This means that the PVsystem must demonstrate adequate assurances of both physical and contractualpermanence prior to receiving an incentive. Physical permanence is to be

demonstrated in accordance with industry practice permanently installed equipment.Equipment must be secured to a permanent surface. Any indication of portability,including, but not limited to, temporary structures, quick disconnects, unsecuredequipment, wheels, carrying handles, dolly, trailer or platform, will deem the systemineligible.

Relocation within MID service territory is considered on a case by case basis. Systemsthat have been relocated are not eligible for additional MID incentives. Additionalfees/charges may apply. Contact MID before relocating PV system.

Relocation of PV systems outside MID service territory, within 20 years of

interconnection is not allowed. MID will seek to recover the unrealized portion of theincentive.


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System Completion

The final permit, incentive claim form and copies of paid invoices may be submitted inperson, may be submitted by mail or may be emailed to: [email protected].

Field Verification and Interconnection Inspection

The Applicants project will be field verified by Modesto Irrigation District

representatives.

Receipt of the following documentation will initiate the inspection process:

Copy of final approved permit (city or county) - The approved final inspection permit(city or county) must be received no later than the expiration date of the reservationapproval letter.

The system will be inspected and interconnected (if MID Electric Service Rulesare met) within 10 business days.

Systems that fail to meet MID requirements may be charged a Re-inspectionFee and a new city / county inspection may be required.

Systems that fail interconnection inspection will be allowed 30 calendar daysfrom the original interconnection request to correct all issues and submit a newpermit (if required) to remain eligible for incentive.

Photograph(s) of installed panels MID must be able to verify panels were installedas approved.

Af ter Interconnection

After interconnection, a notice of Permission to Operate is mailed to the customer.

The following documents must be received within 10 days of interconnection:

Incentive Claim Form Available at www.mid.org.

Copies of Paid Invoices - Projected MID incentives should not be itemized in theproject cost. All documentation must be legible.

If invoice(s) and/or required documentation are not received as detailed above, theapplicant may no longer be eligible for MID incentive.


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Expected Performance-Based Incentive Calculation

The Program provides an incentive based on the expected performance (i.e., expectedannual generated electricity), of a PV system installed in a specific location. The EPBIis determined by analysis using the www.csi-epbb.comtool. The analysis accounts forthe tested and certified performance of the specific module and inverter, the mountingtype and cell temperature, the orientation and tilt of the modules, and the extent to

which the system is shaded. The PV calculator accounts for these parameters that areunder the control of the installer, as well as the solar and climatic conditions for thelocale of the building to determine the estimated performance over a year. Thekilowatt-hour (kWh) production of an applicant system is compared to the kWhproduction of a reference system. The calculator establishes a performance ratiobetween the reference system and the proposed system. This ratio is known as theDesign Factor. The maximum design factor for EPBI is 100%.

The calculator uses the reference system shown in the following table:

Reference PV System & InstallationParameters Reference System & Installation

Location See EPBB User Guide (www.csi-epbb.com)

Azimuth 180 (South orientation)

Tilt 17

Shading None

Default Efficiency Setting to account for dirt, dust and mismatched wiring can be found onthe PV User Guide at www.csi-epbb.com

MID provides for some tolerances in system design as follows:

If a system fails a field inspection, the customer and/or contractor will be notified withthe reasons for the field inspection failure. Inspection Fee(s) may apply. (See MIDElectric Service Rules 15 and 16 and Appendix A.)

A new permit is required for all inspections failed for electrical issues.

A new permit is not required for placard modification.

Inspection Results PA Action

Applicant

Action

Failur

eResults within set

tolerance: Tilt 5,Azimuth 5, Shading

5% of summer shading

Accepts submitted EPBB Calculator andinitiates payment as normal

No Action Necessary No

Results outside settolerance, but within 5%of submitted incentive

Recalculate Incentive based on inspectedEPBB calculator results. If new incentive is

within 5% of submitted incentive, thennotify Applicant of a new incentive amount

change.

Applicant accepts theincentive amount

change or disputeswith PA for resolution

No

Results outside settolerance and not within

5% of submittedIncentive.

Recalculate Incentive based on inspectedEPBB calculator results. If new incentive isnot within 5% of submitted incentive, then

notifyApplicant of a new incentive amount

change and issue a Failure.


change or disputeswith PA for resolution

Yes


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Systems Ineligible for Incentive

Requirements

The solar PV system must be installed and verified as specified in this handbook. MIDreserves the right to periodically review and make changes to rebate qualificationstandards and to determine final interconnection eligibility.

All documentation must be legible.

To qualify for interconnection, both the building and the installed PV system mustmeet the following program requirements included in this handbook.

Eligibility

The electrical service for the building must receive retail electricity distribution serviceat the site of installation from Modesto Irrigation District.

Solar PV systems where MID has built an electrical line extension (MID Rule 15)

to serve a new load within the last three years are not eligible for Solar PVinterconnection.

PV systems must be installed on the property that is owned by the MIDCustomer of Record.

System Size

System size is determined by the Go Solar California EPBB Calculator (www.csi-epbb.com).

The solar PV system must have a minimum capacity rating of 1 kWAC-CSI.

Maximum system per customer not to exceed 1 MWAC-CSI. Customer is

determined by MID Account Number, MID Meter Number and Federal TaxIdentification Number(s).

MID reserves the right to determine maximum system size.

Installation

Premises with multiple electric meters will be limited to one PV system permeter. MID will not increase transformer/service capacity to facilitate PVgeneration under this program.

The solar PV system must be interconnected to the utility distribution grid andgenerate electricity to offset the end-use consumers on-site electrical load.

The solar PV system must be located on the same premises of the end-useconsumer where the consumers own electrical demand is located.

Where multiple PV systems are installed, separate monitoring systems must bemaintained for each installation.

Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobilestructure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must beapproved by the building code enforcement.

Systems must be installed in conformance with the manufacturersspecifications and all applicable electrical and building codes and standards.


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All systems must be inspected by a certified contractor (written verificationrequired for system approval).

Solar installers must have an active A or C-10 license to install solar PVsystem 20kW CEC-AC or greater. Acceptable licenses for all other systemsinclude active A, C-10,B, or C-46.

Systems must be installed by an appropriately licensed contractor, in

accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the California ContractorsState License Board.

MID requires the installation of MID performance (generation) meter measuringthe alternating current output of the PV system.

Systems must meet MID standards. Please review the MID Electric ServiceRules for complete details.

PV System Modification

The installation of additional panels or other system modifications without MIDapproval is prohibited. MID reserves the right to inspect and verify all interconnectedsystems at any time.

Failure to notify MID of PV system modification(s) may affect interconnectioneligibility. MID must be notified of all solar PV installations and /or modifications. Anychange in application sizing after the submittal of an application, no matter how small,up or down, will require a revised application, interconnection agreement, site plan,single line diagram and EPBB worksheets.

Solar PV System Completion for Leased or PPA System

The approved final inspection permit (city or county) must be made available to MIDpersonnel, prior to interconnection and is subject to MID field verification (See FieldVerification and Interconnection Inspection above).

After interconnection, a notice of Permission to Operate is mailed to the customer.

Field Verification and Interconnection Inspection

The project will be field verified by a Modesto Irrigation District representative.

Receipt of the following documentation will initiate the inspection process:

Copy of final approved permit (city or county) Photograph(s) of installed panels

Interconnection is contingent on the field inspection visit and may be adjusteddepending on the results of the field inspection. In all cases, the equipment indicatedin the Approval for Leased, Rented and PPA Systems application must match theequipment observed during the field verification process.


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MID provides for some tolerances in system design as follows:

If a system fails a field inspection, the customer and/or contractor will be notified withthe reasons for the field inspection failure. Re-inspection fee(s) may apply. (See MIDElectric Service Rules and Appendix A.)

A new permit is required for all inspections failed for electrical issues.

A new permit is not required for placard modification.

MID will exercise their judgment in assessing fraud, which can occur due to grossnegligence or intentional submission of inaccurate system information in an attempt tocollect more incentive dollars. The responsible party will be immediately prohibitedfrom participating in the program.

Approval Process for Leased or PPA SystemsOnce the system owner has decided to install a solar system and has an executedcontract with their system installer, the System Approval application is submitted inthe first step of the application process.

Once the Approval for Leased, Rented and PPA Systems application is approved, anacceptance letter confirming the system has been approved for installation.

Where to Send Application Package

To submit application package, please send to the following:

Modesto Irrigation DistrictAttn: Solar PV Program1231 11thStP.O. Box 4060Modesto, CA 95352-4060

Inspection Results PA ActionApplicant

Action FailureResults within set

tolerance: Tilt 5,Azimuth 5, Shading

5% of summer shading

Accepts submitted EPBB Calculator andinitiates payment as normal

No Action Necessary No

Results outside settolerance, but within 5%of submitted incentive

Recalculate Incentive based oninspected EPBB calculator results. If

new incentive is within 5% of submittedincentive, then notify Applicant of a

new incentive amount change.

Applicant accepts theincentive amount changeor disputes with PA for

resolution

No

Results outside settolerance and not within

5% of submittedIncentive.

Recalculate Incentive based oninspected EPBB calculator results. Ifnew incentive is not within 5% ofsubmitted incentive, then notify

Applicant of a new incentive amountchange and issue a Failure.


change or disputes withPA for resolution

Yes


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Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates

RECs for leased, rented or PPA systems are owned by the customer or the assignedagent. If a customer elects to receive compensation for excess generation, MID ownsthe RECs generated by the excess generation.

Permanency

Systems that did not receive an incentive can be relocated to other areas. Additionalfees / charges may apply. Contact MID before relocating PV system.

Note to contractors: Contractors with the required licensing are encouraged

to participate in MID rebate programs. If information on application or

supporting documentation includes misleading or fraudulent data, the rebatemay be denied and the contractor may not be allowed to participate in MIDrebate programs.


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Requirements for Al l PV Systems

Application Package Requirements

Application Package RequirementsPV System(Incentive)

PV System(No Incentive) Documentation Description

Completed Rebate Reservation Request Form/Program Contract(current version required)

Completed System Approval for Leased and PPA Systems (currentversion required)

Details for Multiple Arrays Form(required if more than one array in system)

Copy of contract with vendor/contractor

Single Line Electrical Diagram

Site Plans

CSI Evaluation (www.csi-epbb.com)

Completed MID Interconnection Agreement

Completed MID Net Metering Agreement

IRS Form W-9 (all non-residential systems; customers who selectNet Metering Option 1)

All required fees (based on system size) - See MID Rules andRegulations Appendix A

Required for Interconnection

Copy of City / County Permit

Pictures of installed PV system (including panels)

Required for Systems Eligible for Incentive

Incentive Claim Form

Copies of all paid invoices


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Grid Interconnection

Qualifying PV systems must be grid-connected. This means that the PV system mustbe electrically connected (on the customers property) to the MID electric systemserving the customers load. The interconnection of the customers PV system mustcomply with all applicable electrical codes, MID interconnection requirements and MIDElectric Service Guidelines.

Electrical Interconnection and Net Metering Agreements

Customers installing a Solar PV system and customers requesting service at anexisting service with a Solar PV system are required to submit an ElectricalInterconnection Agreement and a Net Metering Agreement. Net metering is designedto off-set the customers existing load. Oversized systems are not eligible for netmetering.

Customers modifying an existing Solar PV system and customers moving in to aservice with existing PV system are required to submit new Interconnection and NetMetering Agreements for approval prior to interconnection with MID.

Electrical Interconnection Agreement

The Electrical Interconnection Agreement allows the customer to interconnect theirgenerating system with the MID electric system. MID reserves the right to inspectand verify all interconnected systems at any time.

Net Metering Agreement

The Net Metering Payment Agreement includes an election for compensation forsurplus energy generated. Surplus energy compensation is disbursed on an annualbasis. The option cannot be changed more the one in a 12-month period. If anoption is not selected, no compensation for net surplus energy will be given.

MID Engineering and Meter Department Approval

New PV systems and existing systems that are being modified must meet MID

standards. Please review the MID Electric Service Rules for complete details.

Third-Party Field Verif ication & Diagnostic Testing

Third-party field verification may be conducted to assess whether systems have beeninstalled consistent with the characteristics used to determine estimated performance.

Background

The MID Solar PV Program provides incentives to builders for installing highperformance PV systems on energy efficient homes and businesses. Field verification

Net Metering OptionsOption 1 Receive annual payment in a check mailed to my billing address for net surplus energy

(District retains Renewable Energy Credits for the purchased surplus generation). IRS FormW-9 is required.

Option 2 Receive annual bill credits to my electric account as payment for net surplus energy(District retains Renewable Energy Credits for the purchased surplus generation).

Option 3 No compensation for net surplus energy (Customer retains the Renewable Energy Credits).


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must be conducted to ensure that the components of the solar system and itsinstallation are consistent with the characteristics used to determine its estimatedperformance. Field verification is a value-added service that provides quality controland can protect the builder, contractor and supplier, and business or homeowner.

In cases of new construction, the applicant must provide to the installer and rater asite plan that for each lot:

identifies the species of all pre-existing, planted and planned trees and thelocation and height of any structures which will be built on the lot andneighboring lots of the building with the solar system; and

shows the bearing of the property lines and the azimuth and tilt or roof pitch ofeach PV array; and

locations of meters and A/C disconnect; and

distance between meters and A/C disconnect; and

obstacles, i.e. fence, other buildings, that may affect the line of site of metersand A/C disconnect).

Relationship to Other Codes, Standards and Verification

The local jurisdiction must issue a building permit for the qualifying PV system, eitheras a separate permit or as part of the new residential building permit, and the PVsystem must meet all applicable electrical code, structural code and building coderequirements. In addition, MID has standards regarding interconnection to theelectric grid and other matters. The field verification and diagnostic testingprocedures described in this document do not substitute for normal electrical,structural or building plan check or field inspection nor do they substitute for fieldverification by MID regarding interconnection to the electric grid.

Field Verification Visual InspectionThe purpose of the visual inspection described in this protocol is to verify that themodule and inverter specified in the EPBB Calculator printout is the same as theinstalled equipment. The inspector shall use binoculars or another means to view theinstallation without being required to get on the roof, and shall verify the models andnumbers of modules. The inspector may rely on photographic evidence provided bythe installer on the models and numbers of modules, standoff distance and shading,but in the absence of such evidence, must rely on a conservative determination basedsolely on their own observation.

PV Modules

The PV installer and the inspector must verify that the same number of each makeand model number of PV modules used in the expected performance calculations areinstalled in the field. The PV installer and inspector must also verify the modulemounting type (flush mounted BIPV or rack mounted) and in the case of rackmounted modules, the standoff distance of the modules above the mounting surface.

Inverters

The PV installer and inspector must verify that the make and model of inverters usedin the expected performance calculations are installed in the field.


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Tilt and Azimuth

The PV installer and the inspector must verify that the tilt and orientation (azimuth) ofthe PV modules installed in the field match the values that were used to determine theexpected performance of each solar system, within 5. In some systems, PVmodules may be installed in multiple arrays with different tilts and azimuths. In thesecases the tilt and azimuth of each array must be verified.

Determining Tilt - The tilt angle of the PV modules is measured in degrees fromthe horizontal (e.g. horizontal PV modules will have a tilt of zero and verticallymounted PV modules will have a tilt of 90). The tilt of the PV modules may bedetermined in the following ways:

Using the Building Plans - The as-built or construction drawings for theresidential building will state the slope of the roof, usually as the ratio of rise torun. If the PV modules are mounted in the plane of the roof then the slope ofthe PV modules is the same as the slope of the roof. Table 1 may be used to

convert rise to run ratios to degrees of tilt.

Conversion of Roof Pitch to TiltThe tilt in full degrees so as to match the inputs available on the EPBB calculator.

Actual degrees have been rounded to the nearest whole digit.

Roof Pitch (Rise:Run) Tilt *(degrees)

2:12 10

3:12 14

4:12 18

5:12 23

6:12 27

7:12 30

8:12 349:12 37

10:12 40

11:12 43

12:12 45

Using a Digital Protractor - A digital protractor may be used to measure eitherhorizontal or vertical angles. These devices when sighted up the slope of the PVmodules from the ground will displaythe slope, relative to the horizontal.

Determining Orientation (Azimuth) - The convention that is used for measuringazimuth is to determine the degrees of angle clockwise from north, e.g., northazimuth is zero degrees, east is 90, south is 180and west is 270.


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Verification of System Performance

System performance verification is important to ensure all parties are receiving theproper benefits of the system.

For systems that have two or more strings connected in parallel to the same inverter,the following applies:

Complete a visual check of the system to ensure the modules and all othersystem components are bolted securely, and all wiring connections have beenmade properly according to the system schematic, manufacturers instructions,and applicable electrical code requirements.

Check the polarity of all source circuits to be correct.

The open circuit voltages of source circuits shall be tested and measured to bewithin 2 percent of each other.

The short circuit currents shall be tested and measured to be within 5% of eachother.

Indicate on the Request for Payment form in the appropriate section that the

above has been completed.

For systems that have only one string connected to a single inverter or for systemsusing micro-inverters, the following applies:

Record Temperature and Irradiance as discussed below.

Examine Field Verification Output (FVO) table (at end of section) for thepercentage shown given the measured temperature and irradiance. Alwaysround temperature up to the next block. So, 47 rounds up to 55 on the chart.

Multiply the CEC-AC (from EPBB printout) times the FVO percentage to getestimated system output.

Compare estimated system output with actual output. If actual system outputis higher, system is operating within expectations. If estimated output ishigher, perform additional diagnostics and correct any issues as the system maynot be performing properly.

Enter the appropriate values on the Request for Payment form.

Verification of system performance must be performed after the PV system is installedand connected to the electricity grid. Measurements must be made with a minimumirradiance of 300 W/m in a plane parallel to the array. The contractor and MID /third party inspector must 1) measure the solar irradiance in a plane parallel to thearray 2) measure the ambient air temperature. The contractor and MID third partyinspector must then observe the output AC power displayed on the inverter and verifythat the output AC power is at least the amount shown in the table for the fieldmeasured conditions. To qualify for the incentive, PV systems must have aperformance meter or an inverter that has a built in meter that measures output ACpower.


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Measuring Solar Irradiance

Solar irradiance must be measured by using a solar pyranometer. When making thismeasurement, the PV contractor and MID / third party inspector must place thepyranometer in a plane that is parallel to the PV modules. The PV installer shouldposition the pyranometer on top of the PV modules or on the roof next to the PVmodules. MID / third party inspector who is not likely to be able to get on the roof

must position the pyranometer such that it is in full sun and is in plane that is parallelto the PV modules. Digital protractors or other instruments may be used to properlyposition the pyranometer.

Measuring Ambient Air TemperatureAmbient air temperature must be measured with a digital thermometer in the shade.The instrument must have an accuracy of 2C.

Observing Output AC Power at the InverterThe contractor and MID / third party inspector must observe and record the readingwithin five minutes of the time the measurements of solar irradiation and ambient

temperature were made. Note that the inverter may cycle between multiple readings(total kWh of production, output power, etc.), so the contractor and MID / third partyinspector will need to wait until the power is displayed and record this reading;several readings should be made to make sure that they are consistent and stable.

Multiple Orientation ArraysFor larger systems, PV modules connected to the same inverter may be installed withstrings of equal numbers of modules connected in parallel in more than oneorientation, each with its own tilt and azimuth (note that it is bad practice to installsuch strings in series or with a different number of modules in each string; either ofthese installations will lead to substantial reductions in performance). When strings

are installed in multiple orientation arrays to the same inverter, separate EPBBCalculator printouts must be prepared for each orientation and solar irradiance mustbe measured separately in a plane parallel to each string that has a different azimuthand tilt. The expected output AC power is determined separately for each conditionand the sum is used for verification purposes.


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Common Issues

Project Stage Common Issues

P r o j e c t

A p p r o v a l

Missing documents (all required documents must be included. See table above.)

Missing signatures and/or initials

Inconsistent information - Reservation Request /Application Form does not match

EPBB worksheet, site plan and/or single line diagram

Interconnection Review Fee not included with Reservation / Application packet

Site Plan- See MID Electric Service Guide for requirements.

Number of panels / orientation does not match EPBB and/or application

Location of MID equipment not included

Gates and/fences not included

Gates must be marked as locked or unlocked (MID access required).

Single Line Diagram- See MID Electric Service Guide for requirements.

Incorrect placement of AC disconnect and/or generation meter socket

AC disconnect and/or generation meter socket missing AC disconnect and/or generation meter socket missing description

I n t e r c o n n e ct i o n

(Re-inspection fee willbe applied)

Missing city / county final approved permit

MID seal(s) cut / missing

No access to MID equipment

Missing / inadequate placard(s)

Placard not attached properly

Damaged Meter Clips new permit required.

Note: For testing, contractors may use jump covers to maintain meter clip integrity

Meter socket improperly wired

Meter socket height @ centerline exceeds maximum (48 to 75)

I n c e n t iv e

A p p r o v a l

System not installed as approved.

Missing paid invoices

Missing MID Incentive Claim Form Systems 30kW or less

Modesto Irrigation Distric - Solar Photovoltaic Program 2015

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Transcript of Modesto Irrigation Distric - Solar Photovoltaic Program 2015