TOPICS WITH ED LMRE IS YOUR TRUSTED SOLAR PARTNER

At Lorain-Medina Rural Electric, we are committed to providing our members with exceptionally reliable electric services using safe methods, while maintaining a not-forprofit cost structure that benefits the communities we serve. The services we provide extend beyond just electric reliability to educational efforts intended to provide valuable information about energy-related topics. Your cooperative has always been your trusted energy advisor, ensuring any energy decisions you make are in your best interest, even when you are considering significant changes to your service like investing in at-home solar panels.

Installing solar panels on your property is a significant household decision. As your trusted source of energy information, we want to be the first call you make to help provide you with objective and accurate information about the pros and cons of solar energy before you sign any contracts.

With a project of this magnitude, having information available based on real data can have a major impact on the decisions you make regarding any solar installations. Establishing a homeowner-contractor-cooperative partnership early in the process can make the project more successful and help you avoid surprises down the road.

We can also help you avoid common solar scams and ensure that you are working with a reputable company. Unfortunately, there are many companies out there that use high-pressure sales tactics, make false claims, or offer “free” solar panels that come with hidden costs. By consulting with us before signing any contracts, you can be sure that you are making an informed decision and protecting yourself from potential scams.

Unfortunately, we have seen an uptick in predatory companies who promise huge returns on solar investments. These returns usually turn out to have no basis in fact. Please be wary when dealing with salespeople promising something that seems too good to be true. Most likely, it is.

Additionally, we understand the specific challenges that our rural Ohio members may face when it comes to solar panel installation, such as limited sunlight or snow and ice buildup. LMRE can help evaluate your energy needs alongside these challenges and determine whether solar panels are a feasible option for your home. If they are, we can work with you and your solar contractor to make sure you understand the terms of repayment, transfer of ownership if you were to sell your home, whether your contractor charges maintenance fees, and other details of the process.

Ed VanHoose GENERAL MANAGER

Our energy advisor can also discuss how your solar panel system will integrate with LMRE’s electric distribution grid and how you will be compensated through our net billing policies for the energy generated.

If you’re simply looking to lower your energy costs, please consider taking measures to ensure that your home has reached its peak e ciency before installing solar panels. An energy walkthrough can be a great start in evaluating your home’s energy e ciency. LMRE offers the services of our energy advisor for free to provide you with specific e ciency recommendations for your home.

If you’re interested in lowering your electric bill or learning more about renewable energy, please contact us at 440-647-2133. LMRE is a great resource to discuss the benefits and considerations of rooftop solar.