Residential Solar
Considering Solar? Let’s talk about it!
Solar can be a great investment, but it is not right for everyone. As your local energy experts, we hope to be your first stop when considering renewable energy. We can help you evaluate the risks and benefits of solar and provide trusted advice on how to move forward with a solution that is best for you.
Did you know?
Northwestern Electric Cooperative has an application that members are required to have approved before solar panels can be installed. To learn more about our Distributed Generation Guidelines and interconnection application visit our Distributed Generation web page.
Steps to Take Before Committing to Solar:
Contact NWEC! We can help walk through your goals and evaluate the risks and benefits of solar before providing trusted advice on how to move forward with a solution that is best for you.
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Are you looking to lower your electricity bill? - Often times, efficiency measures like adding insulation, replacing windows, weather stripping or caulking windows and doors, or investing in a new heating and cooling method like a ground or air source heat pump are much more affordable measures to help you save in the short and long term. NWEC also has efficiency loans and rebates to help with many of the mentioned methods above.
Do you want to reduce your grid dependance, or avoid outages? - The reality is you are more connected to the grid when installing solar than without. Not only will you have a net meter to allow for the system to feed back onto the grid, you will still lose power when regular outages occur. The solar system has a safety feature to prevent the generated power from flowing back onto the lines and causing a hazard for linemen. Battery storage could provide a short time with stored power, but does not last long and is a very large up front investment. A whole-home generator would be a much more cost effective method to ensure you will not be without power when mother nature strikes. NWEC also offers $1,000 rebates for installing whole-home generators to those who qualify.
Are you interested in tax credits? - For the year you install the system, you are eligible for federal tax credits, which can be great for those who have a large tax appetite.
Are you hoping to get into renewable energy use? - Renewable energy can be a great thing. Just be sure it consider the costs and benefits to you. One way to participate in renewable energy without risk and large upfront cost to you, is to join NWEC’s Community Solar Program. The panels are here at the co-op in Woodward, you simply receive credit based on the system’s production related to the amount of shares you invest in.
Keep in mind, renewable energy is not always available. That is why even with your own energy production method, you are still connected to the electric grid. Your power provider, NWEC, must be ready to provide power to you during times renewable energy is not available, or not producing more than you are using.
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If you give NWEC a call, we will be happy to dive into your usage trends to help determine what size of system makes the most sense for you, and if the system will be able to accomplish the savings you are looking for.
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Commonly, those who install solar will have both a solar bill for the loan to install the system, and their regular electric bill. Even in the few months when a member may produce more than they use, all electric cooperatives still charge a minimum member fee each month for maintaining the system that provides power to all members when they need it (this includes things like poles, wire, and other materials to maintain our distribution system).
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator can help estimate the energy production and cost of energy of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) energy systems throughout the world. It allows homeowners, small building owners, installers and manufacturers to easily develop estimates of the performance of potential PV installations.
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Not only is there an upfront cost to install the system, there can also be annual maintenance costs and more. Plus, be sure that the company you are considering supports future maintenance. Also, the solar industry experiences high turnover, so do your best to find an established company who may be around down the road to perform maintenance or make good on contract promises.
In addition to price and vendors, consider whether your property is a good site for solar. You may also need to investigate local building codes, zoning ordinances, covenants, and special regulations pertaining to solar power systems.
It is also a good rule of thumb to have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical system to ensure it can support his new technology.
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Costs and service can vary drastically among solar companies, be sure to contact numerous options to find the best overall deal for you make any decisions. If you have not contacted NWEC at this point, be sure to call the cooperative before you sign any contract so we can ensure this system will be able to meet your goals, or provide advice on alternate ways to proceed.
Beware of Solar Scams
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Before you sign a contract to install solar generation, please call us. Your best interests are our concern, and many installers are only concerned with making a sale and profit - not about you.
Please note: We do not install solar arrays or sell panels, and we do not partner with any solar companies. If someone approaches you about solar and mentions NWEC by name, please call us immediately at 580-256-7425.
The two scenarios of misleading solar sales tactics listed below are just two of many stories across the country highlighting people who were sold on something that was simply not true. Here in Northwest Oklahoma we have had many members reach out with similar stories and we were able to help them. Sadly, there were also numerous members who did not contact us before signing a contract, and we were not able to help them. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of contacting us first.
Solar Scams Ramp Up in Northwest Oklahoma - Feb. 2024
Hidden Cameras Reveal Dark Side of Solar Power - May 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
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PV systems require grid power for the inverter and when the sun isn't generating electricity (e.g., at night or on cloudy days).
Solar systems typically generate energy but not necessarily when it's consumed, relying on the grid for the difference.
PV systems without batteries need to be connected to the utility grid to function.
Without a battery, solar panels can't supply electricity during power outages. Even with a battery, storage is limited and may only provide power for a short time.
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A PV system consists of various components, each with its own lifespan.
Solar panels typically produce electricity for around 25 years, with gradual efficiency decline over time due to degradation.
After 25 years, solar panels see a significant decrease in electricity production.
Other PV system parts, like inverters, are typically replaced every 10 to 15 years.
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Insurance policies vary, so it's essential to contact your insurance provider before installing a PV system.
Rooftop solar panels are often considered part of your home and covered under your existing homeowner insurance plan.
Ground-mounted solar panels may require a separate policy or can be added to your current one.
Discuss coverage limits and policy details with your insurance provider to ensure you have the appropriate coverage.
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On average, it takes 2 to 6 months from receiving the first quote to PV system installation.
Vendors usually spend several weeks securing permits, designing the system, and ordering parts.
The physical installation itself typically requires only 1 to 3 days.
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PV systems usually demand minimal maintenance.
Wiring around solar panels is the most vulnerable to damage, but extended warranties from equipment manufacturers often cover replacement costs.
Qualified solar professionals should inspect your system every 3 to 5 years to ensure optimal efficiency.
Inverters may require periodic replacement, and although solar panels are weather-resistant, unexpected damage from wind or hail can occur.
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Solar panels can be installed either on your roof or as part of a ground-mounted system.
Ground-mounted systems typically include a frame, racking, and concrete footing.
Ideal for spacious properties away from trees, ground-mounted systems offer benefits like pitch and direction control, larger installations, and avoiding roof-related issues during reroofing.
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Vendors typically design systems uniquely, tailored to your property and energy objectives.
Various PV equipment manufacturers offer diverse equipment and parts.
Vendors may mix and match components to optimize your system.
Obtaining quotes from multiple vendors helps homeowners choose the most suitable system.
Prioritize reputable dealers, as quality matters – "buyer beware," as sometimes, the cost reflects the quality.
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Reach out to your local cooperative representative, Melissa Weder, at (580) 256-7425.
Consult with Melissa to identify any potential limitations that the solar vendor may overlook.
Determine the optimal PV system size tailored to your needs.
Many vendors may suggest larger systems for higher costs and electricity production, but it's not always the best choice, and may not comply with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Standards.
The PV Watts Calculator provides a system size recommendation based on general assumptions.
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If you intend to reroof your house in the next 5 to 10 years, it's advisable to do so before installing solar panels.
Reroofing with solar necessitates temporary removal and reinstallation of panels and mounting hardware, incurring a homeowner cost, often several thousand dollars.
Most solar vendors provide this service and can estimate the associated fee upon request.
Typically, the removal and reinstallation process takes one day each but may require up to a month's notice, depending on vendor availability.
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Permitting and zoning requirements vary regionally and change often, best addressed by your solar vendor.
Required permits depend on the PV system's size, location, and type.
Zoning issues with residential solar are infrequent, with the latest city ordinances provided by your solar vendor.
Typically, 3 permits are necessary for residential solar installation:
Electrical
Structural/building
Dedicated solar photovoltaic (PV)
Helpful Tools and Resources
Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate the energy production and cost of energy of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) energy systems throughout the world. It allows homeowners, small building owners, installers and manufacturers to easily develop estimates of the performance of potential PV installations.