Installing Solar at Your Business

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• Step 1: Complete an energy audit.
  (Print and submit copy with application)
  
  Performing an energy audit is a requirement for participation in the program. There are three ways to complete an audit:
  
  • Phone Audit: Call the Solar Customer Service Center 1-877-743-4112
  • Use our online business energy analyzer.
  • Direct: Contact your local PG&E division account representative.
  
  There are three ways to be exempt from an audit:
  
  • Provide a copy of an energy audit completed in your facility in the past 36 months
  • Provide a copy of your building’s ENERGY STAR or LEED certification
  • Submit a copy showing your business complies (ENV-1-C, MECH-1-C, LTG-1-C, and OTLG-1C prepared by a Certified Energy Plans Examiner) with the 2001 or 2005 CA Title 24 Energy Code
  
  Acting on the audit is not a requirement at this time. However, PG&E recommends you take action with our customizable, energy-efficiency programs for products and services to meet your business needs. Visit our rebates section for more information.
• Step 2: Contact and choose an solar contractor to do a solar site survey.
  A solar solar contractor will site survey your facility to determine if solar installation is possible and right for your business. Since solar systems produce power only when the sun is shining and work best on clear summer days when the sun is perpendicular to the module surface, finding the right site for your system is important. Your property should have clear, unobstructed access to the sun for most of the day, throughout the year. Remember that shading from trees, other buildings or other parts of your facility will substantially reduce the amount of electricity your system can produce. It's also wise to consider how the system will affect site aesthetics.
  
  It's a good idea to interview potential solar contractors and obtain at least 3 bids before making your selection. Factors you should consider include company reputation, warranty service, installed-system price and energy output. In addition, make sure you check the status of the solar contractor's contractor license. The State of California's Contractors State License Board website has licensing information. You may also want to consult the the {CEC's list of contractor} contacts. Self-installations are acceptable as long as your installation adheres to proper building permits and local codes.
  
  There are many types of solar systems. Use PG&E's resources and your solar contractor to help determine what's best based on your business, site, energy needs and budget.
• Step 3: Complete and submit applications for CSI.
  Rebate Application
  The California Solar Initiative offers financial incentives to PG&E electric customers who install solar systems from 1 kilowatt (kw) to 1 megawatt for onsite generation.
  
  Interconnection Application
  The Net Energy Metering (NEM) application is required if you opt to install your photovoltaic system to operate in parallel with the utility grid. You will need to enter into an interconnection agreement with PG&E by submitting the appropriate application forms.
  
  Two interconnection options are available:
  
  • {PG&E's Standard NEM} – For business customers whose solar system is 10 kw or less
  • {PG&E's Expanded NEM} – For business customers whose solar system is greater than 10 kw
  
  Obtain Permits
  Contact your city or county building department. You'll need building and/or electrical permits from your city or county building department to legally begin installation. Usually your solar contractor obtains these for you. Nonetheless, it's a good idea to address permitting costs and responsibilities with the solar contractor at the start of the process.
• Step 4: Schedule a final building inspection.
  Contact your local permitting agency to schedule your building inspection. The permitting agency will either approve it or require you to make corrections or modifications to your system. Once the installation of your system’s equipment is complete and tested, you will need to receive these final approvals.
  
  
• Step 5: Schedule final utility inspection.
  Please send the final, signed approval form from your building inspection to PG&E in order to schedule an onsite utility inspection and meter installation. After a passing inspection, PG&E will provide the written authorization for parallel operation.
• Step 6: Claim your incentive and tax credits.
  Complete the CSI application process to claim your incentive. In addition, you may be eligible for tax credits for your system. The Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP) is a good place to learn more.

Contact Us

E-mail
solar@pge.com

Phone
Solar Customer Service Center 1-877-743-4112
Solar Hotline 415-973-3480 (solar application-related questions)

Mailing Address
PG&E Solar and Customer Generation - CSI
PO Box 7433
San Francisco, CA 94120

Street Address (for overnight deliveries)
PG&E Solar and Customer Generation - CSI
245 Market St., MC N4G
San Francisco, CA 94105-1797