Thinking about installing solar? Be aware of misinformation

SCI REMC supports a mix of power generating resources that utilize traditional means of power generation as well as renewable technologies such as solar power (or photovoltaic, PV). View our comprehensive Solar Energy information packet on everything you need to know before installing solar panels.

SCI REMC began offering solar interconnectivity in 2007. Interconnectivity allows PV systems to generate power and draw power from SCI REMC's grid as needed. SCI REMC buys energy back from the member at a flat rate of $.06/kWh. This rate far exceeds the actual avoided cost recognized by our power supplier and shows SCI REMC’s commitment to supporting renewable energy. The program allows SCI REMC to incorporate more solar power into its system by buying back the surplus generated by the solar homes.

As of April 2021, SCI REMC has over 160 members with solar arrays (with an average size of 8.3kw).

Things to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels

  • Energy Efficiency Measures - Changing out your windows/doors, adding insulation, and upgrading old heating systems and appliances can often save energy at a lower cost than installing solar panels. Updating your home leads to reducing your total energy use. Geothermal heat pumps provide clean, quiet heating and cooling while cutting utility bills by up to 70%, and SCI REMC offers rebates for them.

  • Purpose - Is your purpose environmental, to save money, to lower your electric bill, or for outage protection? 

  • Cost - The average cost of a standard (non-tracking) solar photovoltaic system is $2.50-$3.50 per watt. (The average 10kw system would cost $25,000 - $35,000.) A backup battery system to store excess energy costs an additional $2 per watt. The average payback for PV is 20 years. 

  • Square Footage - Each kW of power requires about 55-65 sq ft of space (whether it's on your roof or in your yard). A 10kw system would require 550-650 sq ft.

  • Federal Tax Credit - There is a federal tax credit for solar projects.  In 2020 the tax credit was 26% of the total installed system cost.  In 2021, it steps down to 22%.  The tax credit expires for residential systems at the end of 2021.  Batteries are included in the tax credit, assuming they are charged with solar power.

It takes approximately 33 - 300 watt solar panels to power an average Indiana home. Larger homes or inefficient homes would require more

 

Once Your Solar Panels are Installed

 

Review our small power generation system manual and requirements.

 

Application - Email the following information to us for approval: 

  1.  Completed application
  2.  Electrical one-line diagram of your system
  3.  Specification sheets for all equipment in the interconnection
  4.  Proof of insurance coverage (Must have at least a $500,000 liability policy.) 

 

Contract - Once we have received your application, we will contact you and ask that you email the completed agreement signed to us.

 

Functional Testing - Once your agreement is accepted, a functional test will be performed at the location of your interconnection with South Central Indiana REMC. The functional test is to ensure that the system cannot back feed electricity on the lines during a power outage. (Your meter will be replaced, and your account will change to the SPGS Rate.) Schedule functional test with SCI REMC.

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Avoid Solar Scams 

5 Things to consider before you install a solar system

  1. Installers who make false claims about excessive annual utility rate increases

  2. Installers who say NOT to contact your electric cooperative

  3. Misleading projected savings

  4. Deceptive sales tactics that push you to make a decision or sign a contract before you do your own research

  5. False claims that you will have no utility bills or will make money from energy generated

To locate certified installers, visit nabcep.org/nabcep-professionals. For solar installation answers and information, visit sciremc.com/solar or email solarsense@sciremc.com.

Use Trusted Sources

If you’re considering a solar array for your home, make sure you are working with a reputable company. You can find certified installation and design professionals at nabcep.org/nabcep-professionals. 
Because this is still an emerging industry with evolving technology, there has been a proliferation of pop-up companies in the market to make a quick buck.

South Central Indiana REMC wants its members to make informed decisions about whether solar is right for them. After all, South Central Indiana REMC has a different “bottom line” that is not directly tied to the sale of a product or service. We take a more holistic, objective view of how to achieve energy and cost savings for our members, and that may or may not include solar. Before you sign the dotted line, please feel encouraged to contact us with any solar array questions at solarsense@sciremc.com.

In this ever-changing environment, it’s important to remember you have a trusted energy advisor – your local electric cooperative. We are a community-focused organization serving our diverse communities with innovative energy solutions and life-enhancing services. 

Remember, we’re just one call or click away, so please reach out with any questions about your electric service or bills – we’re here to help. 

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For information about solar arrays, contact solarsense@sciremc.com.

To contact an energy advisor with questions or to request to schedule an energy audit, visit sciremc.com/energy-advisor. 

For questions about your account, call 765.342.3344 or toll-free 800.264.7362.