AriSEIA Press Release
May 23, 2002

Arizona starts new solar photovoltaic credit purchase program

Arizona Public Service (APS) introduced their Environmental Portfolio Standard (EPS) Credit Purchase Program at the Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association annual meeting on Tuesday, May 16. The program, also referred to as "Solar Partners Plus," targets residential and commercial customers, both on and off the electricity grid.

The Phoenix-based utility has allocated $1.2 million in funding for the program to be spread over the next three years. The EPS, approved by regulators, requires Arizona utilities to produce a certain amount of solar generated electricity. Under the EPS guidelines APS is allowed to purchase solar credits from residential and commercial customers who install solar electric systems on their private residences or buildings. The credit purchase price (or rebate) is $2 per rated watt (Wp) and applies only to systems with array power ratings at or below 5kWp. The credit purchase program only involves the transfer of solar credits and does not involve the actual sale of power produced from the solar electric systems.

Applications for funding should be directed towards Arizona Public Service. Systems must be installed by a licensed or APS approved solar contractor. In addition to installation requirements, all solar products and components must have Underwriter Laboratories approval and meet NEC standards.

Individual requirements state the customer must live in APS service territory and have a grid connection agreement with APS. All equipment must be ordered and installed by December 31, 2004 to qualify for the program.

APS will also continue to offer its popular Solar Partners program, which allows both residential and business customers to buy blocks of solar produced electricity for a small monthly fee.

Details may be found at http://www.aps.com/my_community/Solar/Solar_31.html

Michael Neary
Executive Director
Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association
1-888-253-8180