OCTOBER 2022
THE MESSENGER A Publication for North Arkansas Electric Cooperative Members
NAEC recommends research before installing solar North Arkansas Electric Cooperative encourages members to analyze the pros and cons before buying or leasing a solar facility. Questions to consider in advance include: • Is the estimated energy savings worth the investment? Will your average monthly electric bill exceed the monthly payment for your solar facility plus your minimum NAEC bill? The electric distribution charge is commonly called a minimum bill and is $1.04 a day for a residential single-phase service. It is intended to cover the fixed costs of the service. • Do any estimated savings provided by the solar vendor use NAEC’s kWh rates and factor in NAEC’s electric distribution charge? • Is it more cost-effective to invest in other energy-saving measures, such as a new air-source heat pump or more insulation? • Do you understand the net-metering billing process outlined in NAEC’s tariff approved by the Arkansas Public Service Commission? • Is the solar vendor licensed and insured?
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Can the solar vendor provide references from within NAEC’s service area? • Does the desired spot for the panels receive adequate sunlight? Are trees or structures in the way? • Is there a large upfront payment? • Will you own the panels, or will they be leased? • Are there any hidden costs, such as a roof that needs to be replaced before installing the panels? What would the cost be to remove and reinstall panels if a roof must be replaced? • Are there ongoing maintenance fees? • How long is the warranty for the panels, inverter and other components? • How long has the solar installer and solar manufacturer been in business? • Are rebates or other financial incentives available? • Do you plan to remain in your home through the length of the loan? Will you reap the benefits of the investment? • How will it affect your property insurance? Members have reported higher insurance costs after installing solar; one member’s policy was canceled. For more information, please visit naeci.com/solar.
Focused on
YOU.
Electric cooperatives were created to serve our members. Because we’re a co-op, we’re able to adapt to our community’s unique needs. That’s the power of co-op membership. OCTOBER IS NATIONAL CO-OP MONTH