California: Alameda Municipal Power Solar Rebates

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Alameda Municipal Power has a solar rebate program for their customers that install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in their homes.  It has earmarked a budget of $4.2 million for this program.  Systems must meet the criteria set by AMP, in order to qualify for the benefits of the program.

During its ten-year schedule, the incentive rate will decrease.  For the year 2009, the rebate will be $2.60 per watt, with a cap of 162 kW.  Next year, it will be $2.42 per kW, with a maximum of 174 kW.  Their goal is to produce a total of 2,127 kW from PV installations.

AMP’s solar PV rebates are given on a first-come first-served basis.  The program is available for all of the utility’s residential and commercial clients.

One of the requirements the program has is that the PV system must not exceed 1,000 kW in capacity.  It must also generate no more than 110% of the customer’s total load.  The system must also be connected to the power grid to qualify.

To qualify, the PV systems must also meet California State standards.  It is stated in the application form that the system must comply with optimum orientation, acceptable shade analysis results, tilt of solar panels, system warranties, and certifications of all the equipment as well as contractors.  No only that, applicants must undergo an AMP energy efficiency audit, get all necessary building permits from the City of Alameda, and agree with the terms and conditions stated in AMP’s Interconnection and Purchase Agreement for Net Energy Metering.

The rebate amounts will be effective for 180 days from the time of approval as stamped on the customer’s approved AMP rebate application form.  If the customer hasn’t installed the PV system within the 180 day period, AMP will assume that the project didn’t push through and the rebate amount will be allocated to other customers.  An individual will an expired approved rebate can reapply after the 180 day period.

Aside from the solar rebates, photovoltaic systems installed after January 1, 2009 are entitled for a 30% investment tax credit, as approved by Congress.  Be sure to check with your solar contractor for details.  You might effectively get an additional discount as a result of this new tax credit.

For more information about the Alameda Municipal Power Solar Rebate Program, you can visit their web site at http://www.alamedamp.com/electricity/.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute a source of a official legal or financial advice. While we attempt to represent all data as accurately as possible, we advice you to refer to official government websites, for the most accurate and up-to-date information.