Comprehensive Overview of BizSolar
The BizSolar program is designed to enable commercial and industrial customers to generate and sell solar power to UMPA. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Application and Approval: Submit your application and fee to your specific city, await engineering and city approval.
- Agreement Signing: Once approved, sign the interconnection and power sales agreements provided by UMPA.
- Construction and Inspection: Build your solar facility, obtain necessary permits, and undergo city inspections.
- Power Purchase: UMPA purchases all solar power generated at the rate of $0.045* or $0.043* per kWh, depending on the selection of retaining RECs.
- Continued Utility Payments: All utilities are paid regularly to the city, while the solar power generated is sold to UMPA.
*The rates are current as of July 1, 2024, and are subject to change per UMPA Board of Directors.
Review the Program Guidelines
Before beginning your application, it is essential to thoroughly understand the BizSolar program requirements and guidelines. This will ensure you are fully informed about the program’s expectations and benefits.
- Read the BizSolar Program Guidelines: BizSolar Program Guidelines.
- Read the BizSolar Program Summary: BizSolar Program Standards.
- Understand eligibility criteria: Ensure your business is located within UMPA member cities and maintains good standing with the local electric utility.
- Review technical requirements: Be aware of the specifications for the solar generating facility (25 kW to 750 kW).
Submit Application and Fee to Specific City
Each city within UMPA has a unique application process. Ensure you follow the specific instructions for your municipality to submit your application and the required fee.
- Prepare your application: Complete the BizSolar application form.
- Gather necessary documents: Include plans and other required documentation.
- Email submission: Send your application and documents to the appropriate municipal email.
- Await approval: The city will review your application and provide approval to move to the next step.
Await City/Engineering Approval
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by city officials and sent to engineering for approval. This step may take several months.
- Follow-up: Contact your city officials if you need to follow up on your application status.
- Timeline: Expect a response within 2-3 months as the application is reviewed and scheduled for engineering approval.
UMPA Sends Prefilled Agreements to Clients, Awaits Signatures
Once your application is approved, UMPA will send prefilled agreements to be signed by the client. These agreements are essential for finalizing your participation in the BizSolar program.
- Interconnection Agreement: Review, sign, and return the interconnection agreement.
- Power Sales Agreement: Review, sign, and return the power sales agreement.
- Submit signed documents: Ensure all agreements are signed and submitted promptly to UMPA.
Project Built According to Standards
With all agreements in place, you can now proceed with building your solar project according to the specified standards. The city will provide necessary permits and perform inspections.
- Obtain building permits: The city will award the necessary permits for construction.
- Construct your solar facility: Build your solar generating facility according to the approved plans.
- City inspections: The city will perform inspections during and after construction to ensure compliance.
- Final report to UMPA: The city will report back to UMPA upon successful inspection and commissioning of the project.
