California Solar Initiative

1

• California Solar Initiative
• Introduction Workshop

The slides for todays presentation can be
downloaded/printed at www.pge.com/solareducation
2
Content

• Introduction
• Overview of Energy Efficiency and Climate Smart
• Overview of California Solar Initiative (CSI)
• EPBB Calculator
• CSI Application Process
• CSI Field Inspections
• CSI Metering and Monitoring
• Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
• Generation Interconnection Services (GIS)
• Billing and Rates
• Appendix
• Other Solar Incentive Programs
• Other Renewables Programs
• QA Session

3
Ground Rules

• Act in a safe manner and follow all safety
  guidelines
• Respect the presenter and fellow participants by
  limiting side conversations
• Do not interrupt the person talking, there is
  only one speaker at a time
• Ask only relevant questions or wait until the
  breaks if not related to the topic
• Silence cell phones or step out to make/take a
  call

4
Objective

• The purpose of this workshop is to provide a
  thorough understanding of the California Solar
  Initiative and its requirements. We will take you
  step by step through the application process and
  also give an overview of several related programs
  and services PGE offers.
• Please note This is not an instructional class
  on how to install solar
• If you are interested in learning to install
  solar or getting into the solar industry, please
  visit the following websites for information
• Interstate Renewable Energy Council-Renewable
  Energy Training Catalog
• http//irecusa.org/trainingCatalog/
• The North American Board of Certified Energy
  Practitioners (NABCEP)
• http//www.nabcep.org/certificates/entry-level-cer
  tificate-program/for-students
• Grid Alternative (non-profit providing hands-on
  training for volunteers)
• www.gridalternatives.org
• Also check with local community colleges and
  universities

5
About PGE
What we do Deliver safe, reliable, and
environmentally responsible gas and electricity
to approximately 15 million Californians
Employees 19,800
Electric and gas distribution customers 5.1 MM electric 4.2 MM gas
Electric transmission circuits 18,610 miles
Gas transmission backbone 6,136 miles
Owned Electric generation capacity 6,000 MW
Total Peak Demand 20,000 MW
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(No Transcript)
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PGE is creating clean energy at our own
facilities

• PGE Service Center is sending energy back to the
  grid!

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PGEs Integrated Approach
Energy Efficiency Conservation
Reduce Energy Use
Renewable Power Supply
Neutralize Energy Use
Solar Wind
Climate Smart
9
Overview of Energy Efficiency and Climate Smart
10
Before installing solar

• Start with Energy Efficiency and Demand
  Management
• It is more cost effective to make your home more
  energy efficient before installing solar
• Educate yourself and your customers
• Analyze current energy usage
• Learn what to do by completing an audit
• Explore rate options and other PGE programs
• Encourage Customers to Take Action to be
  Efficient
• Saves energy and money in 2 ways
• Less usage smaller energy bills
• Reduced load smaller solar system lower cost

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Residential
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PGE Offers a Variety of Rebates

• Available on electric and gas residential single
  family homes and multifamily properties

• High-Efficiency Clothes Washers
• ENERGY STAR? Dishwashers
• ENERGY STAR? Room Air Conditioner
• Electric Storage Water Heaters
• Natural Gas Storage Water Heater
• Attic and Wall Insulation

• Cool Roof Low/Steep Slope
• Whole House Fan
• 92 94 AFUE Central Natural Gas Furnace
• Variable Speed Motor (VSM) Air Handler System
• Variable and 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump and Motor
• And more

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Retailer/Manufacturer Offered Rebates

• Appliance Recycling
• Free pick-up of older, working refrigerators
• They use up to up to three times as much energy
  as newer ones and add as much as 250 to your
  annual energy bill
• 98 of the fridge is recycled
• Air Duct Testing and Sealing
• Lighting
• Instant rebates on different products (discount
  included in price)
• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (including spiral as
  well as selected covered reflector lamps and
  dimmables)
• Fluorescent Interior Hardwired Fixtures
• Fluorescent Exterior Hardwired Fixtures (such as
  selected covered reflector lamps)
• Fluorescent Torchieres

14
Business
15
Energy Efficiency Rebates

• PGE offers a variety of rebates on gas and
  electric products for businesses
• Agricultural Products
• Appliances and General Improvement
• Food Service
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Lighting
• Refrigeration
• Boilers and Water Heating
• Business Computing

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(Non-Residential Retrofit - NRR)

• Incentives for the installation of
  high-efficiency equipment or systems
• Customized rebates that are calculated based on
  actual reduction in energy usage

Non-Residential New Construction

• The program offers owners and their design teams
  analysis and resources to aid with
  energy-efficient facility design (10-15 above
  Title 24) of new non-residential facilities,
  expansions, or any added load
• Offers Energy-Efficiency Design Assistance at no
  cost

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Retrocommissioning (RCx)

• Systematic process for identifying
  less-than-optimal performance in an existing
  facilitys equipment and control systems
• Focuses on making necessary repairs or
  enhancements to existing equipment and systems to
  save energy and cost
• Can reduce energy costs by 5-15
• PGE provides incentives, engineering resources
• Building owners must agree to implement measures
  within 12 months

18
Demand Response Programs

• Programs that offer incentives for businesses who
  reduce their energy load during peak demand
• Demand Response vs. Energy Efficiency
• 24-hour demand profile period for an office
  building

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Example of Demand Response Program
PeakChoiceTM

• PeakChoice allows customers to create a
  semi-customized program by selecting options from
  a list of features

Reduction Amount Commitment Level How many kW
you can reduce Making a best effort to reduce vs.
committing to reduce
Event Duration Number of hours you have to
reduce for each event
Event Notification Lead Time Minimum notice you
need before you reduce energy
Event WindowWhat time of day an event can occur
Maximum Number of EventsNumber of events you
will participate in
Number of Consecutive Event Days Number of
consecutive event-days you can participate in
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30 Years of Energy Efficiency Success

• Energy efficiency programs have helped keep per
  capita electricity consumption in California flat
  since 1976
• PGEs programs alone have avoided the release of
  over 135 million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere
  over the same period

Courtesy Art Rosenfeld, California Energy
Commission
Note 2005 2008 are forecast data.
21
ClimateSmart

• The energy you use emits greenhouse gases, such
  as carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere.
• ClimateSmart is a voluntary program that enables
  customers to reduce their impact on climate
  change.
• Customers can pay a separate amount on their
  monthly energy bill
• PGE will invest 100 of the payment in
  independently verified greenhouse gas emission
  reduction projects in California

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ClimateSmart

• These projects absorb or reduce over time an
  equal amount of CO2 from the atmosphere,
  balancing out the climate impact of your energy
  use.
• Conserving and restoring forests
• Capturing methane gas from dairy farms and
  landfills
• Many more proposed
• Example of Projects

Forestry
Dairy Methane Capture
Landfill Methane Capture

• Carbon sequestration
• Habitat preservation
• Watershed protection
• CA is losing 40,000acres of forestland annually

• Reduce impact of methane
• Of 1900 dairies in CA, unless than 24 capture
  methane

• Reduce impact of methane

Pending CPUC approval. Requesting CPUC
approval.
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ClimateSmart

• Enrollment is easy and voluntary customers can
  choose to enroll their electric or gas or both
  accounts
• Cost/Rates
• Based on actual usage (how many kWh and/or therms
  are used)
• Electric 0.00254 per kWh
• Gas 0.06528 per therm
• Less than 5 per month for a typical residential
  home
• Contributions are tax deductible
• Visit the PGE website to enroll or for more
  information
• www.joinclimatesmart.com

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Resources
For more info and other programs, contact PGEs
Energy Efficiency Lines

• Residential
• Smarter Energy Line
• www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney
• or
• 1-800-933-9555

• Small/Medium Commercial
• Business Customer Center
• www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates
• or
• 1-800-468-4743

Large Commercial Contact your assigned PGE
Account Manger or Representative
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BONUSWhat are the three parts of PGEs
Integrated Approach?
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Overview of the California Solar Initiative (CSI)
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SB 1
CPUC (CA Public Utilities Commission)
CEC (California Energy Commission)
Retrofit ResidentialRetrofit CommercialCommercia
l New Construction
Residential New Construction
Retrofit Low Income
1. California Solar Initiative (CSI)
Low Income Solar (LISP)
4. New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP)
3. Single Family
2. Multi-family
Program Administrators
Program Administrators
Grid Alternatives
PGE
SCE
PGE
SCE
BVES
CCSE
SDGE
28
What is CSI?

• The California Solar Initiative provides a
  financial incentive for the installation of solar
  on a home or business.
• CSI incentives vary by incentive type, customer
  segment and system size.
• Incentive amounts gradually reduce over time.
• First funding is reserved, then once installation
  is complete, the incentive payment is made.

29
CSI Eligibility

• Project site must be in service area receiving
  retail electric service from Pacific Gas
  Electric (PGE), Southern California Edison (SCE)
  or San Diego Gas Electric (administered by
  CCSE)
• CSI incentive rate determined by customers
  utility rate schedule
• Retrofit Residential Projects (Single Family
  Multifamily homes)
• Retrofit and New Construction Non-Residential
  Projects (Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural
  and Government)
• Must use new and eligible equipment approved on
  CEC list
• Note Effective July 1, 2009 there is a new list
  for eligible PV modules based on testing
  standards
• New panels can be added to an existing inverter,
  if that inverter was previously rebated through
  the CSI (or program under SB1).
• Minimum System Size of 1 kW
• Maximum System Size of 5 MW
• Incentives will be capped to the First MW

Municipal electric utility customers, please
check with your provider for any solar incentives
or CSI updates. New construction residential
projects are eligible under the New Solar Homes
Partnership Program
30
CSI Eligibility

• Installation contractors must have valid A, B,
  C-10 or C-46 license and be listed with the
  California Energy Commission, unless it is a
  self-installation
• Can be verified by contacting the California
  State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or
  1-800-321-2752.
• System production must serve onsite electric load
• For system 5kW or greater Estimated production
  from EPBB calculator must be lt previous 12 month
  usage history (kWh)
• If system cannot be justified by historical
  usage, one of the following documentation must be
  provided
• 1. Square Footage (only system size of 5-9.9 kW),
  will be used to calculate allowable size (2 watts
  x square feet maximum CEC-AC system size)
• 2. Comprehensive list of new and/or old
  appliances/equipment, wattage and expected usage
  or hours of operation
• 3. Other engineering calculations, Title 24 (no
  older than 3 years), or building simulation
  reports such as eQuest, EnergyPro, etc

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CSI Eligibility

• Energy Efficiency Requirements
• Energy Audit must be completed
• All Customers must sign a Disclosure Agreement
• Acknowledgement that usage history/building
  information, energy efficiency measures and
  recommendations have been provided.
• Benchmarking (only for Non-Res over 100,000
  sq/ft, EPBB only)
• Comparison of energy consumption of a similar
  building to determine a rating/performance score
• If customers rating is less than 75,
  retrocommissioning must be completed.
• Customers required to sign Commitment Agreement
• Commits customer to perform retrocommissioning
  and complete improvements identified in
  assessment
• Improvements must be completed before a project
  is paid
• Non-Residential New Construction must be 15
  above current Title 24 Standards

Effective July 1, 2009
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CSI Incentive Structure

• There are two types of Incentives
• Expected Performance-Based Buydown (EPBB)
• EPBB is a one time, up-front payment based on an
  estimate of the system's future performance
• Or
• Performance-Based Incentives (PBI)
• PBI are monthly payments for 5 years based on
  actual performance of the system as measured by a
  separate performance meter
• Any system larger than 50 kW are required to
  select for the PBI Incentive
• Effective January 1, 2010 any system larger
  than 30kW are required to select the PBI
  Incentive

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CSI Incentive Rates

• Incentive structure
• 10 step program with a predetermined number of
  MegaWatts dedicated to each Step Level
• Rebates automatically decline based upon
  reservations approval
• Higher rebates for non-taxable entities
  (Government/Non Profit)

  PGE (MW) PGE (MW) EPBB Payments (per Watt) EPBB Payments (per Watt) EPBB Payments (per Watt) PBI Payments (per kWh) PBI Payments (per kWh) PBI Payments (per kWh)
Step Res Non-Res Residential Commercial Gov't / Nonprofit Residential Commercial Gov't / Nonprofit
1 - - n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
2 10.1 20.5 2.50 2.50 3.25 0.39 0.39 0.50
3 14.4 29.3 2.20 2.20 2.95 0.34 0.34 0.46
4 18.7 38.1 1.90 1.90 2.65 0.26 0.26 0.37
5 23.1 46.8 1.55 1.55 2.30 0.22 0.22 0.32
6 27.4 55.6 1.10 1.10 1.85 0.15 0.15 0.26
7 31 62.9 0.65 0.65 1.40 0.09 0.09 0.19
8 36.1 73.2 0.35 0.35 1.10 0.05 0.05 0.15
9 41.1 83.4 0.25 0.25 0.90 0.03 0.03 0.12
10 50.5 102.5 0.20 0.20 0.70 0.03 0.03 0.10
Res
Non Res
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Trigger Trackerwww.csi-trigger.com
8
9
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
To determine approximate MW left in step,
subtract column 9 from column 8
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Solar to Date

• PGE territory represents more grid-tied solar
  systems than any other utility in the United
  States
• CSI Program success
• Approximately 18,500 Applications Received
• Over 12,500 Projects Completed totaling over 275
  Million in incentives paid
• Continuous improvements made to streamline
  process and to make PowerClerk user friendly
• Reduced paperwork by more than 50
• Working towards going paperless in the future

36
BONUSWhat is the maximum and minimum system
size to be eligible for a CSI incentive?
37
EPBB Calculator
38
EPBB Calculator

• Online tool that estimates the expected
  production of the system and is used to determine
  the CSI incentive amount
• Takes into consideration equipment, location,
  orientation, tilt, shading effects and standoff
  height
• Measures the proposed system against an optimal
  system
• Derates the proposed system by a certain
  percentage (0-100), referred to as the Design
  Factor, for any factors affecting the expected
  performance.

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Filling Out the EPBB Calculator

• Required Field Measurements
• Standoff Height
• Shading
• Tilt
• True Azimuth

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Standoff Height

• Standoff Height - perpendicular distance from
  roof to the bottom of the module frame
• If not parallel to roof, use average height as
  shown below

(63)/24.5
Mounting Method Choices 0 gt0 to 1 gt1 to
3 gt3 to 6 gt6
6
(SMAX)
Frame
(SMIN)
3
Please note If the Mounting Method is not
selected on the EPBB Calculator, it will
automatically default to greater than 6 which
can result in an incorrect design factor
41
Minimal Shading and Solar Access

• Obstructions such as trees, chimneys or nearby
  buildings can cast shadows on PV systems, which
  can reduce the systems sun access thereby
  reducing the amount of electricity the system
  will generate.
• You must indicate on the EPBB Calculator whether
  there is shading that will have an impact or not.

B

• Option 1 Minimal Shading
• Minimal Shading-requires at least a 21 distance
  to height ratio of any object within the
  orientation of sun to the panels.

A
A gt (2 X B) For example, if line B is 13 feet,
then line A has to be 26 feet or more
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Minimally Shaded?
YES
Object Height is 10 feet above the array. Object
Distance is 40 feet from the array. 2 x Height
(above the modules) 2 x 10 feet 20 feet 2 x
Height lt Distance Minimal Shading Is 20 feet lt
40 feet? Is this Minimal Shading?
NO SHADE IMPACT REQUIRED
43
Minimally Shaded?
NO
SHADE IMPACT REQUIRED
Object Height is 15 feet above the array. Object
Distance is 25 feet from the array. 2 x Height
(above the modules) 2 x 15 feet 30 feet 2 x
Height lt Distance Minimal Shading Is 30 feet lt
25 feet? Is this Minimal Shading?
44
If Not Minimal Shading

• Option 2 Not Minimal Shading, Enter Solar Access
  Values
• If a system does not satisfy the minimal shading
  requirement, a shading analysis needs to be
  performed to generate monthly solar access
  values.
• Solar access can be measured with tools such as
  the Solar Pathfinder or Solmetric SunEye
  (available at Pacific Energy Center to loan,
  visit www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/workshopstraini
  ng/pec/toolbox/tll/)
• Measurements should be take at every major
  corner, but should not be more than 40 feet apart.

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Sample Reading
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Shade Impact Comparison EPBB vs PBI

• PBI
• Incentive based on actual kWh generation
• Since entire years system availability affects
  kWh generation, all shade including winter shade
  affects incentive
• EPBB
• Only summer months (May-October) solar access
  affects incentive
• Winter shade has no impact on incentive

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Tilt

• Tilt - Angle at which the modules are mounted
  relative to 0º (flat horizontal surface)
• Modules that are installed on a flat roof will
  have a 0º tilt

Frame
tilt angleº
Ex. 30º
48
What is True Azimuth?

• True Azimuth the angle, usually measured in
  degrees(), between a reference point (True North
  Point 0) and the direction of interest
  (direction panels are facing)
• The magnetic azimuth is measured using a compass,
  which does not represent the true north point
  because of the Earths magnetic fields
• Therefore, the magnetic azimuth must be corrected
  by adding (in Western U.S.) the magnetic
  declination of a specific location to give true
  azimuth

Magnetic Declination
Magnetic North on a Compass
49
Magnetic Declination Correction

• Look up magnetic declination for specific
  location at (http//www.ngdc.noaa.gov/geomagmodel
  s/Declination.jsp)
• Enter in zip code, and it will calculate the
  magnetic declination for that location.

For example If you are in San Francisco and your
compass shows you a reading of 180, you would
look up the zip code (e.g. 94105) and add the
given correction for magnetic declination of 14
to get a true azimuth of 194
On EPBB Calculator, enter the azimuth as 194
50
Tips for Determining Azimuth

• Try to stay 10-15 ft away from metal, motors,
  rooftop package units or magnets
• Store compasses away from cell phones and magnets
• Do not place compass directly on module or
  racking in case there are any magnetic fields
  present
• Check reading against tools like GoogleEarth.
  There is no azimuth function, but it can be used
  to provide sanity check for azimuth.

51
EPBB Tool Demonstration

• www.csi-epbb.com
• We will show how to input a sample system
• EPBB Tool explanation sheet can be found online
  at www.pge.com/solareducation

52
Using the EPBB CalculatorIncentive Amounts

• EPBB Incentive EPBB Incentive Rate x CSI rating
• CSI rating CEC-AC Rating x Design Factor
• PBI Incentive PBI Incentive Rate X Actual
  monthly kWh output
• EPBB calculator will give estimate of the
  incentive for PBI by calculating estimated annual
  output (annual kWh) x the incentive rate x 5
  years
• As reported monthly by a separate performance
  meter

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Field Verification

• Field measurements should be verified pre and
  post installation for accuracy
• If changes have been made after installation is
  complete, a new EPBB calculator must be submitted
• The following measurements must also be verified
  in the field post installation by the contractor
• Primary Method
• Solar Irradiance
• Temperature
• Inverter Output
• Compare to Field Verification Output Table (next
  page)
• Secondary Method (trained/certified professionals
  only)
• Polarity of all source circuits is correct
• Open circuit voltages of source circuits have
  been tested and measured to be within 2 of each
  other
• Short circuit currents have been tested and
  measured to be within 5 of each other

Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
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Field Verification Output Table
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Multiple EPBB Calculators

• Multiple EPBB Calculators are needed when there
  are multiple arrays that differ in one or more of
  the following
• Stand-off Height
• Shading
• Tilt
• True Azimuth
• Panel manufacturer and/or model
• Inverter manufacturer and/or model

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Case Study 1

• One array with the same
• modules and inverter(s)
• stand-off height
• shading
• azimuth
• tilt

Take 4 SunEye Snapshots, one at each corner of
the array
2
1
2
1
3
4
3
4
28 panels Azimuth - South 180º Tilt - 21º from
horizontal
Neighbors tree
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Case Study 1 Calculate Solar Access Averages

• Each snapshot will generate 12 monthly Solar
  access values

Jan 84 Feb 89 Mar 92 Apr 93 May 94 Jun
e 95 July 97 Aug 96 Sept 94 Oct 92 Nov 9
1 Dec 89
Array 1 Solar access values are averaged for
points 1-4
58
Case Study 1 Calculate Impact

• Because entire array has the same stand-off
  height, shading,
• azimuth, tilt and equipment, it is fine to
  complete only one
• EPBB Calculator using averaged monthly solar
  access
• values from the 4 points.

Array has 28 panels
59
Case Study 2

• Two arrays with the same module types and same
  inverter(s)
• Two arrays with different shading, azimuths and
  tilts
• Take 8 SunEye Snapshots, one at each corner of
  each array

2
3
9 panels Azimuth - East 90º Tilt - 17º from
horizontal
1
4
5
6
7
8
21 panels Azimuth - South 180º Tilt - 21º
from horizontal
Neighbors tree
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Case Study 2 Calculate Solar Access Averages
Each snapshot will generate 12 monthly Solar
access values
Jan 89 Feb 90 Mar 92 Apr
93 May 94 June 95 July 97 Aug 96 Sept 9
4 Oct 92 Nov 91 Dec 89
Jan 90 Feb 91 Mar 92 Apr 93 May 94 June 95 July 9
6 Aug 96 Sept 95 Oct 93 Nov 92 Dec 91
Array 1 Solar access values are averaged for
points 1-4
Array 2 Solar access values are averaged for
points 5-8
61
Case Study 2 Calculate Impact
Because the two arrays have the different shading
azimuths and tilts, two separate EPBB Calculator
submittals are required - one for each array of
unique orientation.
Array 1 has 9 panels
Array 2 has 21 panels
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BONUSWhat is the current incentive rate for
EPBB and PBI for both Residential and Commercial?
63
CSI Application Process
64
Before Applying

• Application Terminology
• Host Customer the utility customer of record
  (person listed on the bill) at the location where
  the generating equipment will be located.
• System Owner the owner of the generating
  equipment at the time the incentive is paid.
• Applicant is the entity/person that completes
  and submits the CSI Program application and
  serves as the main contact person for the CSI
  Program.
• Project Site the physical site where the system
  is going to be installed as listed with PGE. If
  there is a separate mailing address, this can be
  indicated under the Host Customer section.

65
2 Step vs 3 Step Applications

• 2 Step
• All Residential retrofit projects
• All retrofit and new Non-Res projects
• lt 10 kW
• Commercial
• Industrial
• Agricultural
• Government
• Non-Profit

• 3 Step
• All Non-Res retrofit and new construction
  projects
• gt 10 kW
• Commercial
• Industrial
• Agricultural
• Government
• Non-Profit

66
2 Step Application Process
67
2 Step ApplicationAll Residential Retrofit and
All Non-Res Projects lt 10 kW
Step 1. Reserve the Funding
Step 2. Claim your Incentive
68
Step 1 of 2 Reservation Request Required
Documents

• 1. Completed Reservation Request Form and Program
  Contract with Signatures
• Application listing the customer, installer,
  project site, requested incentive amount, etc
• 2. Documentation of an Energy Efficiency Audit
  (or Title 24 documentation or other exemptions)
• Can be done on PGE website, phone or mail
• 3. Printout of EPBB Tool Calculation
  (www.csi-epbb.com)
• Each array requires a separate printout to
  determine correct incentive
• 4. Copy of Executed Agreement of Solar System
  Purchase and Installation
• Purchase/installation contract between involved
  parties
• 5. Copy of Signed Disclosure Agreement
• Acknowledgement of energy efficiency information
  provided

Effective July 1, 2009
69
Step 1 of 2 Additional Required Documents, IF
APPLICABLE

• If Existing EPBB Customer with Commercial
  Building gt100,000 sq ft Benchmarking lt 75
• 6. Copy of Commitment Agreement
• Commits customer to perform retrocommissioning
• If No Historical Usage or Annual kWh on EPBB
  Calculator gt Previous 12 Month Usage history
• 7. Electrical System Sizing Documentation
• Square footage, list of new equipment/appliances
  with wattage and expected use, or engineer
  calculations
• If the Owner of the System is Not the PGE
  Customer
• 8. Copy of Executed Alternative System Ownership
  Agreement
• Listing involved parties, terms, length of time,
  signatures, etc.

Effective July 1, 2009
70
Step 1 of 2 Additional Required Documents, IF
APPLICABLE

• If New Construction (Non-Res only)
• 9. PERF-1 Form Certificate signed by a CEPE
• Proof of compliance of 15 above current Title 24
  standards
• 10. Building Site Plan
• 11. Copy of New Construction Building Permit
• If Government, Non-Profit or Public Entity
• 12. Certification of tax-exempt status
• If certification is unavailable, letter from the
  CFO or equivalent

Effective July 1, 2009
71
Step 2 of 2 Incentive Claim Required Documents

• 1. Complete Incentive Claim Form with Signatures
• Application indicating payee, installed as-built
  equipment, final incentive amount, etc
• 2. Performance Monitoring Reporting Service
  (PMRS) Documentation
• If PBI Copy of Executed Performance Data
  Provider (PDP) contract
• Performance Meter make, model serial number
  name of provider, terms conditions, etc.
• Communication to the performance meter should be
  completed prior to ICF
• If EPBB and no eligible PMRS is installed
  (exempt) PMRS Cost Cap Exemption Documentation
• Proof of exemption such as copy of quote from
  eligible PMRS provider showing cost
• 3. Signed Field Verification Certification Form
• To be signed by contractor verifying field
  measurements

Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
72
Step 2 of 2 Incentive Claim Required Documents

• If Existing EPBB Customer with Commercial
  Building gt100,000 sq ft Benchmarking lt 75
• 4. Copy of Retrocommissioning Report Agreement
• Proof that customer has performed
  retrocommissioning and completed improvements to
  put them above a rating of 75
• If Any Changes have been made to the System
• 5. Updated EPBB Calculation Printout
• Required if installed system is different than
  proposed system in approved in Reservation (Step
  1)

Effective July 1, 2009
73
2 Step Process and Timeframe All Retrofit
Residential and All Non-Res Projects lt 10 kW
Complete Installation
PGE Review
PGE Review
Incentive Claim Form
Incentive Approval Notification
Reservation Request Form
Reservation Confirmation Notification
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 1 year from dateReservation Approved for
retrofit Residential
Due 18 months from dateReservation Approved for
all Non-Residential
Please note Timeframes are approximate. Missing
or Incorrect information/documents cause
indefinite delays.
74
3 Step Application Process
75
3 Step ApplicationAll Non-Residential Projects gt
10 kW
Step 1. Reserve Funding
Step 2. Show Progress
Step 3. Claim Incentive
76
Application Fee for 3 Step

• Application Fee required for all non-residential
  applications gt 10 kW based on CEC-AC rating

• Fee refunded upon project completion
• Fee forfeited if project is cancelled after
  being reserved/confirmed

77
Step 1 of 3 Reservation RequestRequired
Documents

• 1. Completed Reservation Request Form and Program
  Contract with Signature
• 2. Documentation of an Energy Efficiency Audit
  (or Title 24 documentation or other exemptions)
• 3. Printout of EPBB Tool Calculation
  (www.csi-epbb.com)
• 4. Copy of Disclosure Agreement
• Additional Documents Required for 3 Step
  Applications
• 5. Application Fee for non-residential projects
  gt 10kW
• Make payable to PGE or CSI Program

Effective July 1, 2009
78
Step 1 of 3 Reservation RequestRequired
Documents, IF APPLICABLE

• Only required if applicable
• 6. Copy of Commitment Agreement
• 7. Certification of tax-exempt status
• 8. PERF-1 Form Certificate signed by a CEPE
• 9. Building Site Plan
• 10. Copy of New Construction Building Permit

Effective July 1, 2009
79
Step 2 of 3 Proof of Project Milestone Required
Documents

• 1. Completed Proof of Project Milestone
  Checklist
• Checklist to assist in completion of information
  materials required for review of Proof of Project
  Advancement
• 2. Copy of Executed Agreement of Solar System
  Purchase and Installation
• 3. Copy of Executed Alternative System Ownership
  Agreement, if applicable
• 4. Revised EPBB Calculation Printout, if
  applicable
• If Govt, Non-profit, and Public Entities
• Due within 60 days of Reservation Reserved
• 5. Copy of Request For Proposal (RFP) of
  Solicitation
• Notice to Invite Bids or similar solicitations
  for the installation, lease, and/or purchase of
  the system proposed

80
Step 3 of 3 Incentive Claim Required Documents

• Same as 2 Step Applications
• 1. Complete Incentive Claim Form with Signatures
• 2. Performance Monitoring Reporting Service
  (PMRS) Documentation
• If PBI Copy of Executed PDP Contract,
• of
• If EPBB and no eligible PMRS is installed
  (exempt) PMRS Cost Cap Exemption Documentation
• 3. Signed Field Verification Certification Form
• 4. Copy of Retrocommissioning Report Agreement,
  if applicable
• 5. Updated EPBB Calculation Printout, if
  applicable

Effective July 1, 2009
Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
81
3 Step Process and Timeframe New Construction
and Retrofit Non-Residential Projects gt 10 kW
Proof Of Project Milestone
PGE Review
PGE Review
Reservation Request Form
Reserved Reservation Notification
Confirmed Reservation Notification
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 60 Days from Reservation Reserved
PGE Review
Complete Installation
Incentive Claim Form
Incentive Approval Notification
Within 30 days
Due 18 months from Reservation Reserved
Please note Timeframes are approximate and
cannot be guaranteed. Missing or
Incorrect information/documents cause indefinite
delays.
82
3 Step Process and Timeframe Government and
Non-Profit Projects gt 10 kW
PGE Review
PGE Review
Request for Proposal (RFP)
RFP Approval Notification
Reservation Reserved Notification
Reservation Request Form
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 60 Days from Reservation Reserved
Complete Installation
Proof Of Project Milestone
PGE Review
PGE Review
Reservation Confirmed Notification
Incentive Approval Notification
Incentive Claim Form
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 240 Days from Reservation Reserved
Due 18 months from Reservation Reserved
Please note Timeframes are approximate.
Missing or Incorrect information/documents cause
indefinite delays.
83
1 Step Applications

• This option only applies to customers (any type
  or project size) who have already completed their
  interconnection to the utility grid within the
  past 12 months prior to applying for a CSI
  Incentive.
• Applicants can submit only the 1 Step Incentive
  Claim Form without submitting the Reservation
  Request Form
• However all the accompanying required documents
  of the Reservation Request Form and Incentive
  Claim Form must be submitted together
• If a 1 Step Incentive is received and the project
  has not been interconnected, the application may
  be returned.

1 Step application is not yet available. Please
submit the completed ICF and RRF in the meanwhile.
84
Common Mistakes

• Reservation Request Packet
• Missing or Incorrect Energy Audit documentation
  (e.g. wrong zip code, etc.)
• Project Site Address does not match physical
  address in PGE database
• Missing Tax Exemption Letter (Govt, Non-Profit,
  Public Entities)
• Missing signatures for all parties involved
• Proper selection not made on EPBB Calculator,
  causing it to use defaults (i.e. stand-off
  height)
• Incentive Claim Packet
• Revised EPBB not submitted to reflect changes in
  installed equipment
• Equipment does not match information submitted to
  Generation Interconnection Dept.
• Missing PMRS documentation

85
CSI Applications Received
86
How to Apply

• Download Excel forms from website
• www.pge.com/csi
• Access online database PowerClerk
• Track status of all applications
• Ability to pre-fill certain sections with stored
  data
• www.pge.powerclerk.com

Please note that new forms are available as of
July 16, 2009 and must be used
87
Resources

• Applications
• www.pge.com/csi
• www.pge.powerclerk.com
• EPBB Calculation Tool
• www.csi-epbb.com
• California Energy Commission
• www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov

• Energy Efficiency
• Residential
• www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney
• Business
• www.pge.com/mybusiness

88
BONUSWhat is the criteria for minimal shading
according to the CSI Program?
89
CSI Field Inspection Process
90
CSI Field Verification Inspections

• Purpose
• To verify that the project is installed as
  represented in the Incentive Claim Form, is
  operational, is interconnected and meets the
  eligibility criteria of the CSI Program.

91
Selection of CSI Projects for Site Inspections

• Projects lt50 kW
• First two Incentive Claim Forms submitted by a
  contractor will be inspected
• After two successful inspections, projects will
  be randomly chosen for inspection
• Random means approximately 1 in 7 applications
  per applicant
• Projects gt50 kW
• Program administrators discretion

92
CSI Inspection Verification

• Inspectors will verify the following

• Module Inverter Equipment
• Manufacturer
• Model Number
• Quantity
• If module nameplate is not visible, invoice is
  necessary to verify manufacturer and model

• Installation Parameters Verified
• Measure
• Tilt
• Azimuth
• Standoff Height
• Shading of array(s)

Operation - System is operational, and output is
reasonable for conditions at time of inspection
93
Coordination of Inspections

• Applicants are not required to attend
  inspections, though they are highly encouraged to
  do so, especially
• For first time Applicants
• For projects with significant shading
• Inspector will require physical access to the
  equipment
• Inspectors prefer that the Applicant coordinates
  with the Host Customer to allow access
• If Applicant prefers, the Inspector will
  coordinate with the Host Customer.

94
Access Issues to Modules

• If issues exist that prohibit access, such as
• Weather conditions that may render it unsafe to
  mount roof
• Roof that are too steep or have other structural
  issues, etc.
• We will require assistance from Applicant by
• Providing Inspector shading analysis for EPBB
  Calculator
• Providing Inspector invoice indicating the module
  manufacturer, model and quantity
• Inspector will still verify if the system output
  from the inverter is reasonable given the
  conditions during the inspection

95
Inspection Results

• Inspector will verify measurements are within the
  following tolerances
• Tilt /- 3º
• Azimuth /- 5º
• Shading /- 5
• If inspection results fall within tolerances
• Inspector will accept EPBB calculator as
  submitted with the Incentive Claim Form and send
  report to PGE
• PGE will pay incentive as requested in the
  Incentive Claim Form
• If inspection results fall outside of tolerances
• Inspector will communicate discrepancies to
  Applicant onsite, if present during inspection
• Inspector will run a new EPBB calculator to get a
  revised CSI rating and incentive amount
• Inspector will send it along with the report to
  PGE for further evaluation

96
Inspection Results Contd

• PGE will compare recalculated incentive to
  submitted incentive amount in Incentive Claim
  Form/EPBB Calc.
• If incentive amount discrepancy is within 5
• PGE will pay revised incentive amount based on
  new EPBB Calculator from inspection
• If incentive amount discrepancy is 5 or more
• PGE will issue a failure
• If a failure is issued, the following two options
  will be communicated to the Applicant and Host
  Customer and a decision must be made within 30
  days
• 1. Applicant can accept new recalculated
  incentive amount
• 2. Applicant can dispute the accuracy of
  results/measurements
• If installed equipment is different (manuf/model
  or quantity) than that submitted in the ICF/EPBB
  Calc, new EPBB calculator will be run if it
  effects CSI rating/incentive

97
Failed Inspections

• Low volume Installer (lt 200 systems per year
  Statewide)
• 1 failure warning
• 2 failures 100 inspection for Applicants
  projects
• 3 failures Disqualification for 1 year from CSI
  Program
• High volume Installer (gt 200 systems per year
  Statewide)
• 4 failures 100 inspection
• 5 failures Disqualification for 1 year
• All failures removed after good standing for 1
  year of last failure

98
How to Prevent Failed Inspections

• Make sure Incentive Claim Form and EPBB
  Calculator
• accurately reflect as-built system
• If any changes occur, send updated EPBB
  Calculator to
• Program Administrator before the inspection
  occurs
• Revised EPBB Calculators will not be accepted by
  Inspectors
• on-site
• Attend the inspection to familiarize yourself
  with the inspection
• process and program requirements

99
BONUSWhat is the two customer criteria that
distinguishes a project as 3 step?
100
CSI Performance Meteringand Monitoring
101
Performance Metering and Monitoring

• CPUC requires all projects to have Performance
  Monitoring and Reporting Services (PMRS), unless
  exemption criteria are met
• EPBB and PBI Projects
• Performance Meter is a meter separate from and
  in addition to the utilitys revenue meter (can
  be inverter integrated) and records system
  performance at an accuracy of /-5.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
  (PMRS) is a service that a customer can
  purchase to track the performance of their system
  through the performance meter or a NGOM.
• PBI Only
• Net Generation Output Meter (NGOM) is a meter
  separate from and in addition to the utilitys
  revenue meter and records performance (output)
  data at accuracy of /-2.
• Performance Data Provider (PDP) the entity that
  collects performance data from the NGOM and
  provides it to PGE. This is used for calculating
  monthly PBI payments and can also be used to
  provide customer performance data.
• Data for PBI payments is collected once a month

102
CSI Handbook Metering Requirements

• Application Requirements
• PBI Projects must include a copy of an executed
  contract with a PMRS/PDP provider for 5 years and
  must show
• Provider name, project site, cost and all other
  terms
• CEC approved meter make, model and serial number
• Copy of signatures for all involved parties
• EPBB Projects must include proof of exemption
  (if exempt, see chart below)
• Copy of quote from eligible provider showing
  total cost
• Please Note All metering systems are paid for at
  the System Owners expense including some form of
  communications (internet), performance monitoring
  and reporting capability.

103
EPBB Metering and Monitoring Set-Up
Project Site
Customer
PV Panels
Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
(PMRS)
Inverter (with Integrated meter /- 5)
NEM Utility Meter (Bi-directional)
For Billing
104
PBI Metering and Monitoring Set-Up
Project Site
NEM Utility Meter (Bi-directional)
For Billing
PV Panels
Inverter (with Integrated Meter /- 5)
Customer
Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
(PMRS)
Net Generation Output Meter (NGOM /- 2)
Performance Data Provider (PDP)
For PBI Payments
105
Additional Requirements

• All PMRS/PDP providers must be listed on the CEC
  Website and be approved by each Program
  Administrator
• In most cases, the PMRS provider and PDP provider
  will be the same entity.
• Meter and equipment must be on approved CEC list
• If the following message is displayed on the EPBB
  calculator, the selected inverter does not have a
  /-5 integrated meter and/or an output display.
  Therefore, an additional meter or component must
  be installed
• Meters must have a one-year warranty
• Performance meters can be installed by the
  utility or a qualified 3rd party (PBI Only)
• See CSI Handbook Appendix B, Section 11 and
  4.7.3.3 for more information
• Check for eligible providers at
  www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov

106
BONUSWhat are the four field measurements we
verify during an inspection?
107
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
(Non-PV)
108
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

• Overview
• A definition All solar technologies other than
  flat-plate non-concentrating modules
• In other words Anything other than conventional
  PV
• As of October 1, 2008, other solar electric
  technologies could apply for CSI incentive
• Reflects CPUC intent that all solar technologies
  (not just PV) should qualify for incentives
• All Other Solar Electric incentives are PBI
• As with PV, products must be certified for CSI
  eligibility
• Only one product certified to-date (SolFocus)

109
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
Category Electric Generating Electric Displacing
Technology Examples Dish stirling Solar trough Dish and lens Concentrating solar (CPV) Solar water heating Solar space process heating Solar driven cooling
Incentive Basis Amount of electricity generated (like with PV) minus ancillary loads Amount of electricity that would have otherwise been consumed, assuming minimum equipment efficiencies
110
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

• Technology examples

Dish Stirling
Source www.solfocus.com
Concentrating PV
Source www.wapa.org
Solar Trough
Source www.geni.org
Solar Thermal Heating/Cooling
111
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

• Going forward
• CSI calculator for Concentrating PV is available
• Determines incentive based on user estimate of
  annual kWh (can be obtained from vendor
  calculations)
• Calculator for other technologies to follow
• Forms available on CSI website
• Reservation Request Form
• Reservation application guide
• Have received first Other Solar Electric
  Reservation Request (Concentrating PV)

112
BONUSWhat is the cost cap exemption for a 35kW
PBI system?
113
Generation Interconnection Services (GIS)
114
Interconnection Overview

• Interconnection is the physical connection of the
  solar system to the utility grid.
• GIS Role
• Coordinates interconnection activities,
  including
• engineering reviews,
• metering
• access issues
• special facilities
• execute contracts and administer
• Assures that safety protocols are adhered to for
  the protection of the utility workers and the
  generator is installed as designed and operating
  according to Rule 21.
• Issues Permission to Operate (PTO).
• Provides for two types of solar interconnections
  (Rule 21) NEM (exporting) and non-NEM
  (non-exporting) options for the customer.

115
Total PGE NEM Interconnections
116
Interconnection Application vs. CSI Application

• Interconnection Application is a separate, but
  parallel process to CSI/SGIP Application.
• Equipment submitted with the CSI application and
  the Interconnection Application must match.
• Permanent Service must be established (No
  Temporary).
• GIS Field Inspection and Interconnection
  Agreement must be complete and PTO granted before
  paid for CSI Incentive.

Submit CSI Application
Review
Incentive Paid
Submit Interconnection Application
Interconnect to grid
Review Approve
117
GIS Application Common Issues

• Final building permit (BP) does not match
  application or is missing.
• Single Line Diagram (SLD) has no equipment
  information make, model, rating, or how many PV
  modules are connected to each inverter.
• Name on application does not match name on PGE
  Blue Bill account. (Call1-877-743-4112 to add
  name to acct).
• Reprogramming fee of 228 for Time of use (TOU)
  not included. Website has availability and
  exceptions.

118
Other Common Issues

• System Upgrades New Application is necessary
  showing all generation on site.
• Fax coversheet with Reference/Application number
  is not included when faxing docs (building
  permits) to GIS.
• Customer/Vendor requesting courtesy calls upon
  PGE receipt of final City/County Building
  Inspection.
• Appointments for installation of a PGE lockbox
  to gain access not discussed with customer by the
  vendor.

119
1 Issue

• Disconnect Access Customers bi-directional
  meter must be installed in a safe, 24/7
  PGE-accessible location, unobstructed by locked
  gates or pets. Meter access must be maintained at
  all times for reading/system maintenance. Any
  animals owned by the customer, including pet
  dogs, should not have access to these areas to
  avoid hindering PGE service personnel from
  completing their work.
• PGE Rule 21(D.1.e) requires PGE to have a
  visible, lockable, accessible A/C disconnect
  device for each generator. It is not required if
  the customer has a self contained meter that can
  be utilized as the A/C disconnect for the
  generator. (98 of PGE meters are self
  contained).

120
Net Energy Metering (NEM)
The utility grid is a two-way street.
Electricity can be exported to the grid by the
customer. PGE can provide any extra electricity
or back-up power the customer may need.
X

• Eliminates the need for batteries
• Reduces cost and maintenance.
• Ensures a constant supply of electricity.

121
Net Energy Metering (NEM)

• The intent of the NEM program is that the
  generation is primarily to offset part or all of
  the customers own electrical requirements.
• The electric grid acts as a "battery" for the
  customer and their meter measures the net usage
  ("spins backwards" when the customer is exporting
  electricity to the grid).
• In California, systems up to 1 MW can participate
  in the program other states typically have a
  lower size limit.

122
Resources

• GIS Contact Information
• Website www.pge.com/gen
• E-Mail gen_at_pge.com
• Phone [phone]
• Fax [phone]
• Jack McDermott
• Senior Program Manager
• Email JAMb_at_pge.com
• Phone [phone]

123
BONUSWhat are the two types of
interconnections options (Rule 21) for customers?
124

• Billing and Rates

125
How NEM Billing Works

• Meter runs forwards/backwards and only records
  net energy
• PGE will not pay cash or issue a check for
  exporting to the grid
• Customer receives a monthly charge or credit
  based on electric rate schedule
• Charges/credits carry over each month for 12
  months, referred to as True-Up Period

126
NEM Billing continued

• True-Up Period starts on date of interconnection
  and ends each anniversary
• At end of 12 month period, customer will receive
  True-Up bill, reconciling all the accumulated
  charges and credits
• Customer will still receive a monthly bill for
  minimum charge and if applicable, for gas
• Customer also receive a separate monthly NEM
  statement detailing reads and charges/credits to
  be owed at the end of the True-Up Period

127
Sample Bill and Statement
Jane Sample 123 Main St San Jose, CA 99999
128
NEM Not for Everyone

• Not every customer will benefit from
  participating in NEM
• Reasons
• Will never export
• Demand charges are not eliminated
• 12 month billing cycle may be difficult for
  accounting or budgets
• Should be evaluated on a case by case basis

129
Residential Electric Rates

• Customers are billed on a tiered pricing
  structure.
• The 1st Tier represents the essential amount of
  electricity called baseline
• Baseline amount is set by legislature and is
  based on
• Geographic location (Territory)
• Season (Winter/Summer)
• Permanent Heating Source (Gas/Electric)

130
Residential Rate Options

• E-1
• Basic rate
• Price does not vary by season or time of day
• Best for customer who are home during the day or
  cannot shift usage outside 1-7pm

• E6
• Time of Use (TOU) rate
• Price varies by time of day
• 3 time periods
• Peak
• Partial-Peak
• Off-Peak
• Solar Friendly

131
E-6 Time Periods