California Solar Initiative

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California Solar Initiative

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Title: California Solar Initiative

1

California Solar Initiative
Introduction Workshop

The slides for todays presentation can be
downloaded/printed at www.pge.com/solareducation
2
Content

Introduction
Overview of Energy Efficiency and Climate Smart
Overview of California Solar Initiative (CSI)
EPBB Calculator
CSI Application Process
CSI Field Inspections
CSI Metering and Monitoring
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
Generation Interconnection Services (GIS)
Billing and Rates
Appendix
Other Solar Incentive Programs
Other Renewables Programs
QA Session

3
Ground Rules

Act in a safe manner and follow all safety
guidelines
Respect the presenter and fellow participants by
limiting side conversations
Do not interrupt the person talking, there is
only one speaker at a time
Ask only relevant questions or wait until the
breaks if not related to the topic
Silence cell phones or step out to make/take a
call

4
Objective

The purpose of this workshop is to provide a
thorough understanding of the California Solar
Initiative and its requirements. We will take you
step by step through the application process and
also give an overview of several related programs
and services PGE offers.
Please note This is not an instructional class
on how to install solar
If you are interested in learning to install
solar or getting into the solar industry, please
visit the following websites for information
Interstate Renewable Energy Council-Renewable
Energy Training Catalog
http//irecusa.org/trainingCatalog/
The North American Board of Certified Energy
Practitioners (NABCEP)
http//www.nabcep.org/certificates/entry-level-cer
tificate-program/for-students
Grid Alternative (non-profit providing hands-on
training for volunteers)
www.gridalternatives.org
Also check with local community colleges and
universities

5
About PGE
What we do Deliver safe, reliable, and
environmentally responsible gas and electricity
to approximately 15 million Californians
Employees 19,800
Electric and gas distribution customers 5.1 MM electric 4.2 MM gas
Electric transmission circuits 18,610 miles
Gas transmission backbone 6,136 miles
Owned Electric generation capacity 6,000 MW
Total Peak Demand 20,000 MW
6
(No Transcript)
7
PGE is creating clean energy at our own
facilities

PGE Service Center is sending energy back to the
grid!

8
PGEs Integrated Approach
Energy Efficiency Conservation
Reduce Energy Use
Renewable Power Supply
Neutralize Energy Use
Solar Wind
Climate Smart
9
Overview of Energy Efficiency and Climate Smart
10
Before installing solar

Start with Energy Efficiency and Demand
Management
It is more cost effective to make your home more
energy efficient before installing solar
Educate yourself and your customers
Analyze current energy usage
Learn what to do by completing an audit
Explore rate options and other PGE programs
Encourage Customers to Take Action to be
Efficient
Saves energy and money in 2 ways
Less usage smaller energy bills
Reduced load smaller solar system lower cost

11
Residential
12
PGE Offers a Variety of Rebates

Available on electric and gas residential single
family homes and multifamily properties

High-Efficiency Clothes Washers
ENERGY STAR? Dishwashers
ENERGY STAR? Room Air Conditioner
Electric Storage Water Heaters
Natural Gas Storage Water Heater
Attic and Wall Insulation

Cool Roof Low/Steep Slope
Whole House Fan
92 94 AFUE Central Natural Gas Furnace
Variable Speed Motor (VSM) Air Handler System
Variable and 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump and Motor
And more

13
Retailer/Manufacturer Offered Rebates

Appliance Recycling
Free pick-up of older, working refrigerators
They use up to up to three times as much energy
as newer ones and add as much as 250 to your
annual energy bill
98 of the fridge is recycled
Air Duct Testing and Sealing
Lighting
Instant rebates on different products (discount
included in price)
Compact Fluorescent Lamps (including spiral as
well as selected covered reflector lamps and
dimmables)
Fluorescent Interior Hardwired Fixtures
Fluorescent Exterior Hardwired Fixtures (such as
selected covered reflector lamps)
Fluorescent Torchieres

14
Business
15
Energy Efficiency Rebates

PGE offers a variety of rebates on gas and
electric products for businesses
Agricultural Products
Appliances and General Improvement
Food Service
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Lighting
Refrigeration
Boilers and Water Heating
Business Computing

16
(Non-Residential Retrofit - NRR)

Incentives for the installation of
high-efficiency equipment or systems
Customized rebates that are calculated based on
actual reduction in energy usage

Non-Residential New Construction

The program offers owners and their design teams
analysis and resources to aid with
energy-efficient facility design (10-15 above
Title 24) of new non-residential facilities,
expansions, or any added load
Offers Energy-Efficiency Design Assistance at no
cost

17
Retrocommissioning (RCx)

Systematic process for identifying
less-than-optimal performance in an existing
facilitys equipment and control systems
Focuses on making necessary repairs or
enhancements to existing equipment and systems to
save energy and cost
Can reduce energy costs by 5-15
PGE provides incentives, engineering resources
Building owners must agree to implement measures
within 12 months

18
Demand Response Programs

Programs that offer incentives for businesses who
reduce their energy load during peak demand
Demand Response vs. Energy Efficiency
24-hour demand profile period for an office
building

19
Example of Demand Response Program
PeakChoiceTM

PeakChoice allows customers to create a
semi-customized program by selecting options from
a list of features

Reduction Amount Commitment Level How many kW
you can reduce Making a best effort to reduce vs.
committing to reduce
Event Duration Number of hours you have to
reduce for each event
Event Notification Lead Time Minimum notice you
need before you reduce energy
Event WindowWhat time of day an event can occur
Maximum Number of EventsNumber of events you
will participate in
Number of Consecutive Event Days Number of
consecutive event-days you can participate in
20
30 Years of Energy Efficiency Success

Energy efficiency programs have helped keep per
capita electricity consumption in California flat
since 1976
PGEs programs alone have avoided the release of
over 135 million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere
over the same period

Courtesy Art Rosenfeld, California Energy
Commission
Note 2005 2008 are forecast data.
21
ClimateSmart

The energy you use emits greenhouse gases, such
as carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere.
ClimateSmart is a voluntary program that enables
customers to reduce their impact on climate
change.
Customers can pay a separate amount on their
monthly energy bill
PGE will invest 100 of the payment in
independently verified greenhouse gas emission
reduction projects in California

22
ClimateSmart

These projects absorb or reduce over time an
equal amount of CO2 from the atmosphere,
balancing out the climate impact of your energy
use.
Conserving and restoring forests
Capturing methane gas from dairy farms and
landfills
Many more proposed
Example of Projects

Forestry
Dairy Methane Capture
Landfill Methane Capture

Carbon sequestration
Habitat preservation
Watershed protection
CA is losing 40,000acres of forestland annually

Reduce impact of methane
Of 1900 dairies in CA, unless than 24 capture
methane

Reduce impact of methane

Pending CPUC approval. Requesting CPUC
approval.
23
ClimateSmart

Enrollment is easy and voluntary customers can
choose to enroll their electric or gas or both
accounts
Cost/Rates
Based on actual usage (how many kWh and/or therms
are used)
Electric 0.00254 per kWh
Gas 0.06528 per therm
Less than 5 per month for a typical residential
home
Contributions are tax deductible
Visit the PGE website to enroll or for more
information
www.joinclimatesmart.com

24
Resources
For more info and other programs, contact PGEs
Energy Efficiency Lines

Residential
Smarter Energy Line
www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney
or
1-800-933-9555

Small/Medium Commercial
Business Customer Center
www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates
or
1-800-468-4743

Large Commercial Contact your assigned PGE
Account Manger or Representative
25
BONUSWhat are the three parts of PGEs
Integrated Approach?
26
Overview of the California Solar Initiative (CSI)
27
SB 1
CPUC (CA Public Utilities Commission)
CEC (California Energy Commission)
Retrofit ResidentialRetrofit CommercialCommercia
l New Construction
Residential New Construction
Retrofit Low Income
1. California Solar Initiative (CSI)
Low Income Solar (LISP)
4. New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP)
3. Single Family
2. Multi-family
Program Administrators
Program Administrators
Grid Alternatives
PGE
SCE
PGE
SCE
BVES
CCSE
SDGE
28
What is CSI?

The California Solar Initiative provides a
financial incentive for the installation of solar
on a home or business.
CSI incentives vary by incentive type, customer
segment and system size.
Incentive amounts gradually reduce over time.
First funding is reserved, then once installation
is complete, the incentive payment is made.

29
CSI Eligibility

Project site must be in service area receiving
retail electric service from Pacific Gas
Electric (PGE), Southern California Edison (SCE)
or San Diego Gas Electric (administered by
CCSE)
CSI incentive rate determined by customers
utility rate schedule
Retrofit Residential Projects (Single Family
Multifamily homes)
Retrofit and New Construction Non-Residential
Projects (Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural
and Government)
Must use new and eligible equipment approved on
CEC list
Note Effective July 1, 2009 there is a new list
for eligible PV modules based on testing
standards
New panels can be added to an existing inverter,
if that inverter was previously rebated through
the CSI (or program under SB1).
Minimum System Size of 1 kW
Maximum System Size of 5 MW
Incentives will be capped to the First MW

Municipal electric utility customers, please
check with your provider for any solar incentives
or CSI updates. New construction residential
projects are eligible under the New Solar Homes
Partnership Program
30
CSI Eligibility

Installation contractors must have valid A, B,
C-10 or C-46 license and be listed with the
California Energy Commission, unless it is a
self-installation
Can be verified by contacting the California
State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or
1-800-321-2752.
System production must serve onsite electric load
For system 5kW or greater Estimated production
from EPBB calculator must be lt previous 12 month
usage history (kWh)
If system cannot be justified by historical
usage, one of the following documentation must be
provided
1. Square Footage (only system size of 5-9.9 kW),
will be used to calculate allowable size (2 watts
x square feet maximum CEC-AC system size)
2. Comprehensive list of new and/or old
appliances/equipment, wattage and expected usage
or hours of operation
3. Other engineering calculations, Title 24 (no
older than 3 years), or building simulation
reports such as eQuest, EnergyPro, etc

31
CSI Eligibility

Energy Efficiency Requirements
Energy Audit must be completed
All Customers must sign a Disclosure Agreement
Acknowledgement that usage history/building
information, energy efficiency measures and
recommendations have been provided.
Benchmarking (only for Non-Res over 100,000
sq/ft, EPBB only)
Comparison of energy consumption of a similar
building to determine a rating/performance score
If customers rating is less than 75,
retrocommissioning must be completed.
Customers required to sign Commitment Agreement
Commits customer to perform retrocommissioning
and complete improvements identified in
assessment
Improvements must be completed before a project
is paid
Non-Residential New Construction must be 15
above current Title 24 Standards

Effective July 1, 2009
32
CSI Incentive Structure

There are two types of Incentives
Expected Performance-Based Buydown (EPBB)
EPBB is a one time, up-front payment based on an
estimate of the system's future performance
Or
Performance-Based Incentives (PBI)
PBI are monthly payments for 5 years based on
actual performance of the system as measured by a
separate performance meter
Any system larger than 50 kW are required to
select for the PBI Incentive
Effective January 1, 2010 any system larger
than 30kW are required to select the PBI
Incentive

33
CSI Incentive Rates

Incentive structure
10 step program with a predetermined number of
MegaWatts dedicated to each Step Level
Rebates automatically decline based upon
reservations approval
Higher rebates for non-taxable entities
(Government/Non Profit)

PGE (MW) PGE (MW) EPBB Payments (per Watt) EPBB Payments (per Watt) EPBB Payments (per Watt) PBI Payments (per kWh) PBI Payments (per kWh) PBI Payments (per kWh)
Step Res Non-Res Residential Commercial Gov't / Nonprofit Residential Commercial Gov't / Nonprofit
1 - - n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
2 10.1 20.5 2.50 2.50 3.25 0.39 0.39 0.50
3 14.4 29.3 2.20 2.20 2.95 0.34 0.34 0.46
4 18.7 38.1 1.90 1.90 2.65 0.26 0.26 0.37
5 23.1 46.8 1.55 1.55 2.30 0.22 0.22 0.32
6 27.4 55.6 1.10 1.10 1.85 0.15 0.15 0.26
7 31 62.9 0.65 0.65 1.40 0.09 0.09 0.19
8 36.1 73.2 0.35 0.35 1.10 0.05 0.05 0.15
9 41.1 83.4 0.25 0.25 0.90 0.03 0.03 0.12
10 50.5 102.5 0.20 0.20 0.70 0.03 0.03 0.10
Res
Non Res
34
Trigger Trackerwww.csi-trigger.com
8
9
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
To determine approximate MW left in step,
subtract column 9 from column 8
35
Solar to Date

PGE territory represents more grid-tied solar
systems than any other utility in the United
States
CSI Program success
Approximately 18,500 Applications Received
Over 12,500 Projects Completed totaling over 275
Million in incentives paid
Continuous improvements made to streamline
process and to make PowerClerk user friendly
Reduced paperwork by more than 50
Working towards going paperless in the future

36
BONUSWhat is the maximum and minimum system
size to be eligible for a CSI incentive?
37
EPBB Calculator
38
EPBB Calculator

Online tool that estimates the expected
production of the system and is used to determine
the CSI incentive amount
Takes into consideration equipment, location,
orientation, tilt, shading effects and standoff
height
Measures the proposed system against an optimal
system
Derates the proposed system by a certain
percentage (0-100), referred to as the Design
Factor, for any factors affecting the expected
performance.

39
Filling Out the EPBB Calculator

Required Field Measurements
Standoff Height
Shading
Tilt
True Azimuth

40
Standoff Height

Standoff Height - perpendicular distance from
roof to the bottom of the module frame
If not parallel to roof, use average height as
shown below

(63)/24.5
Mounting Method Choices 0 gt0 to 1 gt1 to
3 gt3 to 6 gt6
6
(SMAX)
Frame
(SMIN)
3
Please note If the Mounting Method is not
selected on the EPBB Calculator, it will
automatically default to greater than 6 which
can result in an incorrect design factor
41
Minimal Shading and Solar Access

Obstructions such as trees, chimneys or nearby
buildings can cast shadows on PV systems, which
can reduce the systems sun access thereby
reducing the amount of electricity the system
will generate.
You must indicate on the EPBB Calculator whether
there is shading that will have an impact or not.

Option 1 Minimal Shading
Minimal Shading-requires at least a 21 distance
to height ratio of any object within the
orientation of sun to the panels.

A
A gt (2 X B) For example, if line B is 13 feet,
then line A has to be 26 feet or more
42
Minimally Shaded?
YES
Object Height is 10 feet above the array. Object
Distance is 40 feet from the array. 2 x Height
(above the modules) 2 x 10 feet 20 feet 2 x
Height lt Distance Minimal Shading Is 20 feet lt
40 feet? Is this Minimal Shading?
NO SHADE IMPACT REQUIRED
43
Minimally Shaded?
NO
SHADE IMPACT REQUIRED
Object Height is 15 feet above the array. Object
Distance is 25 feet from the array. 2 x Height
(above the modules) 2 x 15 feet 30 feet 2 x
Height lt Distance Minimal Shading Is 30 feet lt
25 feet? Is this Minimal Shading?
44
If Not Minimal Shading

Option 2 Not Minimal Shading, Enter Solar Access
Values
If a system does not satisfy the minimal shading
requirement, a shading analysis needs to be
performed to generate monthly solar access
values.
Solar access can be measured with tools such as
the Solar Pathfinder or Solmetric SunEye
(available at Pacific Energy Center to loan,
visit www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/workshopstraini
ng/pec/toolbox/tll/)
Measurements should be take at every major
corner, but should not be more than 40 feet apart.

45
Sample Reading
46
Shade Impact Comparison EPBB vs PBI

PBI
Incentive based on actual kWh generation
Since entire years system availability affects
kWh generation, all shade including winter shade
affects incentive
EPBB
Only summer months (May-October) solar access
affects incentive
Winter shade has no impact on incentive

47
Tilt

Tilt - Angle at which the modules are mounted
relative to 0º (flat horizontal surface)
Modules that are installed on a flat roof will
have a 0º tilt

Frame
tilt angleº
Ex. 30º
48
What is True Azimuth?

True Azimuth the angle, usually measured in
degrees(), between a reference point (True North
Point 0) and the direction of interest
(direction panels are facing)
The magnetic azimuth is measured using a compass,
which does not represent the true north point
because of the Earths magnetic fields
Therefore, the magnetic azimuth must be corrected
by adding (in Western U.S.) the magnetic
declination of a specific location to give true
azimuth

Magnetic Declination
Magnetic North on a Compass
49
Magnetic Declination Correction

Look up magnetic declination for specific
location at (http//www.ngdc.noaa.gov/geomagmodel
s/Declination.jsp)
Enter in zip code, and it will calculate the
magnetic declination for that location.

For example If you are in San Francisco and your
compass shows you a reading of 180, you would
look up the zip code (e.g. 94105) and add the
given correction for magnetic declination of 14
to get a true azimuth of 194
On EPBB Calculator, enter the azimuth as 194
50
Tips for Determining Azimuth

Try to stay 10-15 ft away from metal, motors,
rooftop package units or magnets
Store compasses away from cell phones and magnets
Do not place compass directly on module or
racking in case there are any magnetic fields
present
Check reading against tools like GoogleEarth.
There is no azimuth function, but it can be used
to provide sanity check for azimuth.

51
EPBB Tool Demonstration

www.csi-epbb.com
We will show how to input a sample system
EPBB Tool explanation sheet can be found online
at www.pge.com/solareducation

52
Using the EPBB CalculatorIncentive Amounts

EPBB Incentive EPBB Incentive Rate x CSI rating
CSI rating CEC-AC Rating x Design Factor
PBI Incentive PBI Incentive Rate X Actual
monthly kWh output
EPBB calculator will give estimate of the
incentive for PBI by calculating estimated annual
output (annual kWh) x the incentive rate x 5
years
As reported monthly by a separate performance
meter

53
Field Verification

Field measurements should be verified pre and
post installation for accuracy
If changes have been made after installation is
complete, a new EPBB calculator must be submitted
The following measurements must also be verified
in the field post installation by the contractor
Primary Method
Solar Irradiance
Temperature
Inverter Output
Compare to Field Verification Output Table (next
page)
Secondary Method (trained/certified professionals
only)
Polarity of all source circuits is correct
Open circuit voltages of source circuits have
been tested and measured to be within 2 of each
other
Short circuit currents have been tested and
measured to be within 5 of each other

Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
54
Field Verification Output Table
55
Multiple EPBB Calculators

Multiple EPBB Calculators are needed when there
are multiple arrays that differ in one or more of
the following
Stand-off Height
Shading
Tilt
True Azimuth
Panel manufacturer and/or model
Inverter manufacturer and/or model

56
Case Study 1

One array with the same
modules and inverter(s)
stand-off height
shading
azimuth
tilt

Take 4 SunEye Snapshots, one at each corner of
the array
2
1
2
1
3
4
3
4
28 panels Azimuth - South 180º Tilt - 21º from
horizontal
Neighbors tree
57
Case Study 1 Calculate Solar Access Averages

Each snapshot will generate 12 monthly Solar
access values

Jan 84 Feb 89 Mar 92 Apr 93 May 94 Jun
e 95 July 97 Aug 96 Sept 94 Oct 92 Nov 9
1 Dec 89
Array 1 Solar access values are averaged for
points 1-4
58
Case Study 1 Calculate Impact

Because entire array has the same stand-off
height, shading,
azimuth, tilt and equipment, it is fine to
complete only one
EPBB Calculator using averaged monthly solar
access
values from the 4 points.

Array has 28 panels
59
Case Study 2

Two arrays with the same module types and same
inverter(s)
Two arrays with different shading, azimuths and
tilts
Take 8 SunEye Snapshots, one at each corner of
each array

2
3
9 panels Azimuth - East 90º Tilt - 17º from
horizontal
1
4
5
6
7
8
21 panels Azimuth - South 180º Tilt - 21º
from horizontal
Neighbors tree
60
Case Study 2 Calculate Solar Access Averages
Each snapshot will generate 12 monthly Solar
access values
Jan 89 Feb 90 Mar 92 Apr
93 May 94 June 95 July 97 Aug 96 Sept 9
4 Oct 92 Nov 91 Dec 89
Jan 90 Feb 91 Mar 92 Apr 93 May 94 June 95 July 9
6 Aug 96 Sept 95 Oct 93 Nov 92 Dec 91
Array 1 Solar access values are averaged for
points 1-4
Array 2 Solar access values are averaged for
points 5-8
61
Case Study 2 Calculate Impact
Because the two arrays have the different shading
azimuths and tilts, two separate EPBB Calculator
submittals are required - one for each array of
unique orientation.
Array 1 has 9 panels
Array 2 has 21 panels
62
BONUSWhat is the current incentive rate for
EPBB and PBI for both Residential and Commercial?
63
CSI Application Process
64
Before Applying

Application Terminology
Host Customer the utility customer of record
(person listed on the bill) at the location where
the generating equipment will be located.
System Owner the owner of the generating
equipment at the time the incentive is paid.
Applicant is the entity/person that completes
and submits the CSI Program application and
serves as the main contact person for the CSI
Program.
Project Site the physical site where the system
is going to be installed as listed with PGE. If
there is a separate mailing address, this can be
indicated under the Host Customer section.

65
2 Step vs 3 Step Applications

2 Step
All Residential retrofit projects
All retrofit and new Non-Res projects
lt 10 kW
Commercial
Industrial
Agricultural
Government
Non-Profit

3 Step
All Non-Res retrofit and new construction
projects
gt 10 kW
Commercial
Industrial
Agricultural
Government
Non-Profit

66
2 Step Application Process
67
2 Step ApplicationAll Residential Retrofit and
All Non-Res Projects lt 10 kW
Step 1. Reserve the Funding
Step 2. Claim your Incentive
68
Step 1 of 2 Reservation Request Required
Documents

1. Completed Reservation Request Form and Program
Contract with Signatures
Application listing the customer, installer,
project site, requested incentive amount, etc
2. Documentation of an Energy Efficiency Audit
(or Title 24 documentation or other exemptions)
Can be done on PGE website, phone or mail
3. Printout of EPBB Tool Calculation
(www.csi-epbb.com)
Each array requires a separate printout to
determine correct incentive
4. Copy of Executed Agreement of Solar System
Purchase and Installation
Purchase/installation contract between involved
parties
5. Copy of Signed Disclosure Agreement
Acknowledgement of energy efficiency information
provided

Effective July 1, 2009
69
Step 1 of 2 Additional Required Documents, IF
APPLICABLE

If Existing EPBB Customer with Commercial
Building gt100,000 sq ft Benchmarking lt 75
6. Copy of Commitment Agreement
Commits customer to perform retrocommissioning
If No Historical Usage or Annual kWh on EPBB
Calculator gt Previous 12 Month Usage history
7. Electrical System Sizing Documentation
Square footage, list of new equipment/appliances
with wattage and expected use, or engineer
calculations
If the Owner of the System is Not the PGE
Customer
8. Copy of Executed Alternative System Ownership
Agreement
Listing involved parties, terms, length of time,
signatures, etc.

Effective July 1, 2009
70
Step 1 of 2 Additional Required Documents, IF
APPLICABLE

If New Construction (Non-Res only)
9. PERF-1 Form Certificate signed by a CEPE
Proof of compliance of 15 above current Title 24
standards
10. Building Site Plan
11. Copy of New Construction Building Permit
If Government, Non-Profit or Public Entity
12. Certification of tax-exempt status
If certification is unavailable, letter from the
CFO or equivalent

Effective July 1, 2009
71
Step 2 of 2 Incentive Claim Required Documents

1. Complete Incentive Claim Form with Signatures
Application indicating payee, installed as-built
equipment, final incentive amount, etc
2. Performance Monitoring Reporting Service
(PMRS) Documentation
If PBI Copy of Executed Performance Data
Provider (PDP) contract
Performance Meter make, model serial number
name of provider, terms conditions, etc.
Communication to the performance meter should be
completed prior to ICF
If EPBB and no eligible PMRS is installed
(exempt) PMRS Cost Cap Exemption Documentation
Proof of exemption such as copy of quote from
eligible PMRS provider showing cost
3. Signed Field Verification Certification Form
To be signed by contractor verifying field
measurements

Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
72
Step 2 of 2 Incentive Claim Required Documents

If Existing EPBB Customer with Commercial
Building gt100,000 sq ft Benchmarking lt 75
4. Copy of Retrocommissioning Report Agreement
Proof that customer has performed
retrocommissioning and completed improvements to
put them above a rating of 75
If Any Changes have been made to the System
5. Updated EPBB Calculation Printout
Required if installed system is different than
proposed system in approved in Reservation (Step
1)

Effective July 1, 2009
73
2 Step Process and Timeframe All Retrofit
Residential and All Non-Res Projects lt 10 kW
Complete Installation
PGE Review
PGE Review
Incentive Claim Form
Incentive Approval Notification
Reservation Request Form
Reservation Confirmation Notification
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 1 year from dateReservation Approved for
retrofit Residential
Due 18 months from dateReservation Approved for
all Non-Residential
Please note Timeframes are approximate. Missing
or Incorrect information/documents cause
indefinite delays.
74
3 Step Application Process
75
3 Step ApplicationAll Non-Residential Projects gt
10 kW
Step 1. Reserve Funding
Step 2. Show Progress
Step 3. Claim Incentive
76
Application Fee for 3 Step

Application Fee required for all non-residential
applications gt 10 kW based on CEC-AC rating

Fee refunded upon project completion
Fee forfeited if project is cancelled after
being reserved/confirmed

77
Step 1 of 3 Reservation RequestRequired
Documents

1. Completed Reservation Request Form and Program
Contract with Signature
2. Documentation of an Energy Efficiency Audit
(or Title 24 documentation or other exemptions)
3. Printout of EPBB Tool Calculation
(www.csi-epbb.com)
4. Copy of Disclosure Agreement
Additional Documents Required for 3 Step
Applications
5. Application Fee for non-residential projects
gt 10kW
Make payable to PGE or CSI Program

Effective July 1, 2009
78
Step 1 of 3 Reservation RequestRequired
Documents, IF APPLICABLE

Only required if applicable
6. Copy of Commitment Agreement
7. Certification of tax-exempt status
8. PERF-1 Form Certificate signed by a CEPE
9. Building Site Plan
10. Copy of New Construction Building Permit

Effective July 1, 2009
79
Step 2 of 3 Proof of Project Milestone Required
Documents

1. Completed Proof of Project Milestone
Checklist
Checklist to assist in completion of information
materials required for review of Proof of Project
Advancement
2. Copy of Executed Agreement of Solar System
Purchase and Installation
3. Copy of Executed Alternative System Ownership
Agreement, if applicable
4. Revised EPBB Calculation Printout, if
applicable
If Govt, Non-profit, and Public Entities
Due within 60 days of Reservation Reserved
5. Copy of Request For Proposal (RFP) of
Solicitation
Notice to Invite Bids or similar solicitations
for the installation, lease, and/or purchase of
the system proposed

80
Step 3 of 3 Incentive Claim Required Documents

Same as 2 Step Applications
1. Complete Incentive Claim Form with Signatures
2. Performance Monitoring Reporting Service
(PMRS) Documentation
If PBI Copy of Executed PDP Contract,
of
If EPBB and no eligible PMRS is installed
(exempt) PMRS Cost Cap Exemption Documentation
3. Signed Field Verification Certification Form
4. Copy of Retrocommissioning Report Agreement,
if applicable
5. Updated EPBB Calculation Printout, if
applicable

Effective July 1, 2009
Effective for Reservation Request Applications
first received on or after July 1, 2009
81
3 Step Process and Timeframe New Construction
and Retrofit Non-Residential Projects gt 10 kW
Proof Of Project Milestone
PGE Review
PGE Review
Reservation Request Form
Reserved Reservation Notification
Confirmed Reservation Notification
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 60 Days from Reservation Reserved
PGE Review
Complete Installation
Incentive Claim Form
Incentive Approval Notification
Within 30 days
Due 18 months from Reservation Reserved
Please note Timeframes are approximate and
cannot be guaranteed. Missing or
Incorrect information/documents cause indefinite
delays.
82
3 Step Process and Timeframe Government and
Non-Profit Projects gt 10 kW
PGE Review
PGE Review
Request for Proposal (RFP)
RFP Approval Notification
Reservation Reserved Notification
Reservation Request Form
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 60 Days from Reservation Reserved
Complete Installation
Proof Of Project Milestone
PGE Review
PGE Review
Reservation Confirmed Notification
Incentive Approval Notification
Incentive Claim Form
Within 30 days
Within 30 days
Due 240 Days from Reservation Reserved
Due 18 months from Reservation Reserved
Please note Timeframes are approximate.
Missing or Incorrect information/documents cause
indefinite delays.
83
1 Step Applications

This option only applies to customers (any type
or project size) who have already completed their
interconnection to the utility grid within the
past 12 months prior to applying for a CSI
Incentive.
Applicants can submit only the 1 Step Incentive
Claim Form without submitting the Reservation
Request Form
However all the accompanying required documents
of the Reservation Request Form and Incentive
Claim Form must be submitted together
If a 1 Step Incentive is received and the project
has not been interconnected, the application may
be returned.

1 Step application is not yet available. Please
submit the completed ICF and RRF in the meanwhile.
84
Common Mistakes

Reservation Request Packet
Missing or Incorrect Energy Audit documentation
(e.g. wrong zip code, etc.)
Project Site Address does not match physical
address in PGE database
Missing Tax Exemption Letter (Govt, Non-Profit,
Public Entities)
Missing signatures for all parties involved
Proper selection not made on EPBB Calculator,
causing it to use defaults (i.e. stand-off
height)
Incentive Claim Packet
Revised EPBB not submitted to reflect changes in
installed equipment
Equipment does not match information submitted to
Generation Interconnection Dept.
Missing PMRS documentation

85
CSI Applications Received
86
How to Apply

Download Excel forms from website
www.pge.com/csi
Access online database PowerClerk
Track status of all applications
Ability to pre-fill certain sections with stored
data
www.pge.powerclerk.com

Please note that new forms are available as of
July 16, 2009 and must be used
87
Resources

Applications
www.pge.com/csi
www.pge.powerclerk.com
EPBB Calculation Tool
www.csi-epbb.com
California Energy Commission
www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov

Energy Efficiency
Residential
www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney
Business
www.pge.com/mybusiness

88
BONUSWhat is the criteria for minimal shading
according to the CSI Program?
89
CSI Field Inspection Process
90
CSI Field Verification Inspections

Purpose
To verify that the project is installed as
represented in the Incentive Claim Form, is
operational, is interconnected and meets the
eligibility criteria of the CSI Program.

91
Selection of CSI Projects for Site Inspections

Projects lt50 kW
First two Incentive Claim Forms submitted by a
contractor will be inspected
After two successful inspections, projects will
be randomly chosen for inspection
Random means approximately 1 in 7 applications
per applicant
Projects gt50 kW
Program administrators discretion

92
CSI Inspection Verification

Inspectors will verify the following

Module Inverter Equipment
Manufacturer
Model Number
Quantity
If module nameplate is not visible, invoice is
necessary to verify manufacturer and model

Installation Parameters Verified
Measure
Tilt
Azimuth
Standoff Height
Shading of array(s)

Operation - System is operational, and output is
reasonable for conditions at time of inspection
93
Coordination of Inspections

Applicants are not required to attend
inspections, though they are highly encouraged to
do so, especially
For first time Applicants
For projects with significant shading
Inspector will require physical access to the
equipment
Inspectors prefer that the Applicant coordinates
with the Host Customer to allow access
If Applicant prefers, the Inspector will
coordinate with the Host Customer.

94
Access Issues to Modules

If issues exist that prohibit access, such as
Weather conditions that may render it unsafe to
mount roof
Roof that are too steep or have other structural
issues, etc.
We will require assistance from Applicant by
Providing Inspector shading analysis for EPBB
Calculator
Providing Inspector invoice indicating the module
manufacturer, model and quantity
Inspector will still verify if the system output
from the inverter is reasonable given the
conditions during the inspection

95
Inspection Results

Inspector will verify measurements are within the
following tolerances
Tilt /- 3º
Azimuth /- 5º
Shading /- 5
If inspection results fall within tolerances
Inspector will accept EPBB calculator as
submitted with the Incentive Claim Form and send
report to PGE
PGE will pay incentive as requested in the
Incentive Claim Form
If inspection results fall outside of tolerances
Inspector will communicate discrepancies to
Applicant onsite, if present during inspection
Inspector will run a new EPBB calculator to get a
revised CSI rating and incentive amount
Inspector will send it along with the report to
PGE for further evaluation

96
Inspection Results Contd

PGE will compare recalculated incentive to
submitted incentive amount in Incentive Claim
Form/EPBB Calc.
If incentive amount discrepancy is within 5
PGE will pay revised incentive amount based on
new EPBB Calculator from inspection
If incentive amount discrepancy is 5 or more
PGE will issue a failure
If a failure is issued, the following two options
will be communicated to the Applicant and Host
Customer and a decision must be made within 30
days
1. Applicant can accept new recalculated
incentive amount
2. Applicant can dispute the accuracy of
results/measurements
If installed equipment is different (manuf/model
or quantity) than that submitted in the ICF/EPBB
Calc, new EPBB calculator will be run if it
effects CSI rating/incentive

97
Failed Inspections

Low volume Installer (lt 200 systems per year
Statewide)
1 failure warning
2 failures 100 inspection for Applicants
projects
3 failures Disqualification for 1 year from CSI
Program
High volume Installer (gt 200 systems per year
Statewide)
4 failures 100 inspection
5 failures Disqualification for 1 year
All failures removed after good standing for 1
year of last failure

98
How to Prevent Failed Inspections

Make sure Incentive Claim Form and EPBB
Calculator
accurately reflect as-built system
If any changes occur, send updated EPBB
Calculator to
Program Administrator before the inspection
occurs
Revised EPBB Calculators will not be accepted by
Inspectors
on-site
Attend the inspection to familiarize yourself
with the inspection
process and program requirements

99
BONUSWhat is the two customer criteria that
distinguishes a project as 3 step?
100
CSI Performance Meteringand Monitoring
101
Performance Metering and Monitoring

CPUC requires all projects to have Performance
Monitoring and Reporting Services (PMRS), unless
exemption criteria are met
EPBB and PBI Projects
Performance Meter is a meter separate from and
in addition to the utilitys revenue meter (can
be inverter integrated) and records system
performance at an accuracy of /-5.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
(PMRS) is a service that a customer can
purchase to track the performance of their system
through the performance meter or a NGOM.
PBI Only
Net Generation Output Meter (NGOM) is a meter
separate from and in addition to the utilitys
revenue meter and records performance (output)
data at accuracy of /-2.
Performance Data Provider (PDP) the entity that
collects performance data from the NGOM and
provides it to PGE. This is used for calculating
monthly PBI payments and can also be used to
provide customer performance data.
Data for PBI payments is collected once a month

102
CSI Handbook Metering Requirements

Application Requirements
PBI Projects must include a copy of an executed
contract with a PMRS/PDP provider for 5 years and
must show
Provider name, project site, cost and all other
terms
CEC approved meter make, model and serial number
Copy of signatures for all involved parties
EPBB Projects must include proof of exemption
(if exempt, see chart below)
Copy of quote from eligible provider showing
total cost
Please Note All metering systems are paid for at
the System Owners expense including some form of
communications (internet), performance monitoring
and reporting capability.

103
EPBB Metering and Monitoring Set-Up
Project Site
Customer
PV Panels
Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
(PMRS)
Inverter (with Integrated meter /- 5)
NEM Utility Meter (Bi-directional)
For Billing
104
PBI Metering and Monitoring Set-Up
Project Site
NEM Utility Meter (Bi-directional)
For Billing
PV Panels
Inverter (with Integrated Meter /- 5)
Customer
Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service
(PMRS)
Net Generation Output Meter (NGOM /- 2)
Performance Data Provider (PDP)
For PBI Payments
105
Additional Requirements

All PMRS/PDP providers must be listed on the CEC
Website and be approved by each Program
Administrator
In most cases, the PMRS provider and PDP provider
will be the same entity.
Meter and equipment must be on approved CEC list
If the following message is displayed on the EPBB
calculator, the selected inverter does not have a
/-5 integrated meter and/or an output display.
Therefore, an additional meter or component must
be installed
Meters must have a one-year warranty
Performance meters can be installed by the
utility or a qualified 3rd party (PBI Only)
See CSI Handbook Appendix B, Section 11 and
4.7.3.3 for more information
Check for eligible providers at
www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov

106
BONUSWhat are the four field measurements we
verify during an inspection?
107
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
(Non-PV)
108
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

Overview
A definition All solar technologies other than
flat-plate non-concentrating modules
In other words Anything other than conventional
PV
As of October 1, 2008, other solar electric
technologies could apply for CSI incentive
Reflects CPUC intent that all solar technologies
(not just PV) should qualify for incentives
All Other Solar Electric incentives are PBI
As with PV, products must be certified for CSI
eligibility
Only one product certified to-date (SolFocus)

109
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies
Category Electric Generating Electric Displacing
Technology Examples Dish stirling Solar trough Dish and lens Concentrating solar (CPV) Solar water heating Solar space process heating Solar driven cooling
Incentive Basis Amount of electricity generated (like with PV) minus ancillary loads Amount of electricity that would have otherwise been consumed, assuming minimum equipment efficiencies
110
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

Technology examples

Dish Stirling
Source www.solfocus.com
Concentrating PV
Source www.wapa.org
Solar Trough
Source www.geni.org
Solar Thermal Heating/Cooling
111
Other Solar Electric Generating Technologies

Going forward
CSI calculator for Concentrating PV is available
Determines incentive based on user estimate of
annual kWh (can be obtained from vendor
calculations)
Calculator for other technologies to follow
Forms available on CSI website
Reservation Request Form
Reservation application guide
Have received first Other Solar Electric
Reservation Request (Concentrating PV)

112
BONUSWhat is the cost cap exemption for a 35kW
PBI system?
113
Generation Interconnection Services (GIS)
114
Interconnection Overview

Interconnection is the physical connection of the
solar system to the utility grid.
GIS Role
Coordinates interconnection activities,
including
engineering reviews,
metering
access issues
special facilities
execute contracts and administer
Assures that safety protocols are adhered to for
the protection of the utility workers and the
generator is installed as designed and operating
according to Rule 21.
Issues Permission to Operate (PTO).
Provides for two types of solar interconnections
(Rule 21) NEM (exporting) and non-NEM
(non-exporting) options for the customer.

115
Total PGE NEM Interconnections
116
Interconnection Application vs. CSI Application

Interconnection Application is a separate, but
parallel process to CSI/SGIP Application.
Equipment submitted with the CSI application and
the Interconnection Application must match.
Permanent Service must be established (No
Temporary).
GIS Field Inspection and Interconnection
Agreement must be complete and PTO granted before
paid for CSI Incentive.

Submit CSI Application
Review
Incentive Paid
Submit Interconnection Application
Interconnect to grid
Review Approve
117
GIS Application Common Issues

Final building permit (BP) does not match
application or is missing.
Single Line Diagram (SLD) has no equipment
information make, model, rating, or how many PV
modules are connected to each inverter.
Name on application does not match name on PGE
Blue Bill account. (Call1-877-743-4112 to add
name to acct).
Reprogramming fee of 228 for Time of use (TOU)
not included. Website has availability and
exceptions.

118
Other Common Issues

System Upgrades New Application is necessary
showing all generation on site.
Fax coversheet with Reference/Application number
is not included when faxing docs (building
permits) to GIS.
Customer/Vendor requesting courtesy calls upon
PGE receipt of final City/County Building
Inspection.
Appointments for installation of a PGE lockbox
to gain access not discussed with customer by the
vendor.

119
1 Issue

Disconnect Access Customers bi-directional
meter must be installed in a safe, 24/7
PGE-accessible location, unobstructed by locked
gates or pets. Meter access must be maintained at
all times for reading/system maintenance. Any
animals owned by the customer, including pet
dogs, should not have access to these areas to
avoid hindering PGE service personnel from
completing their work.
PGE Rule 21(D.1.e) requires PGE to have a
visible, lockable, accessible A/C disconnect
device for each generator. It is not required if
the customer has a self contained meter that can
be utilized as the A/C disconnect for the
generator. (98 of PGE meters are self
contained).

120
Net Energy Metering (NEM)
The utility grid is a two-way street.
Electricity can be exported to the grid by the
customer. PGE can provide any extra electricity
or back-up power the customer may need.
X

Eliminates the need for batteries
Reduces cost and maintenance.
Ensures a constant supply of electricity.

121
Net Energy Metering (NEM)

The intent of the NEM program is that the
generation is primarily to offset part or all of
the customers own electrical requirements.
The electric grid acts as a "battery" for the
customer and their meter measures the net usage
("spins backwards" when the customer is exporting
electricity to the grid).
In California, systems up to 1 MW can participate
in the program other states typically have a
lower size limit.

122
Resources

GIS Contact Information
Website www.pge.com/gen
E-Mail gen_at_pge.com
Phone 415-972-5676
Fax 415-973-3050
Jack McDermott
Senior Program Manager
Email JAMb_at_pge.com
Phone 415-973-5142

123
BONUSWhat are the two types of
interconnections options (Rule 21) for customers?
124

Billing and Rates

125
How NEM Billing Works

Meter runs forwards/backwards and only records
net energy
PGE will not pay cash or issue a check for
exporting to the grid
Customer receives a monthly charge or credit
based on electric rate schedule
Charges/credits carry over each month for 12
months, referred to as True-Up Period

126
NEM Billing continued

True-Up Period starts on date of interconnection
and ends each anniversary
At end of 12 month period, customer will receive
True-Up bill, reconciling all the accumulated
charges and credits
Customer will still receive a monthly bill for
minimum charge and if applicable, for gas
Customer also receive a separate monthly NEM
statement detailing reads and charges/credits to
be owed at the end of the True-Up Period

127
Sample Bill and Statement
Jane Sample 123 Main St San Jose, CA 99999
128
NEM Not for Everyone