Emergency Generators

THE COOP IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY SOLAR COMPANIES
We do not send companies door to door to sell you solar systems.

If you are considering investing in a distributed generation system, BEC highly recommends you invest time researching renewable energy before you begin.
Your research will provide the information and resources necessary to help you understand the economics of a distributed generation system. This includes identifying the most suitable renewable energy technology for your property, exploring financing options, understanding potential incentives, and addressing other requirements, such as insurance.
Implementing energy efficiency measures, such as adding insulation, sealing air leaks, or using energy-efficient appliances, before installing a distributed generation system can help you save money. These measures will lower your overall energy consumption and reduce the size of the distributed generation system needed to meet your energy needs.

Things to Consider about Solar

What is your purpose for adding solar to your residence?

Environmental, Cost Savings, Offset Electric Bill, Outage Protection?

Cost

The average cost of a standard Solar PV (Photovoltaic) System for a 10kW system ranges from $25,000 to $35,000. A backup battery system to store excess energy costs an additional $2-$4 per watt.

Do you have enough service area on your roof available to accommodate your project?

Each kW of power requires about 50-70 square feet of roof or yard space. A typical 10kW system would require 500-700 square feet as a reference.

Tax Credits

There may be federal and state tax credits for solar projects. Please consult your solar vendor and your tax consultant for details.
Opportunities vary by state and locale and have many expiration dates. Utilize database websites offering details on state-specific incentives and tax breaks, such as https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/tx

How will the Solar System interact with BEC’s Distribution System?

Most solar systems are designed to supply only a portion of your electricity needs and typically do not provide 100% of your power consumption. This means that during the night, on cloudy days, or during periods of high energy usage, you may need more electricity than your photovoltaic (PV) system can generate. Consequently, you will still be connected to your utility's power lines.
Since these systems are grid-connected, electricity can flow both ways. Each utility, including Bartlett Electric Cooperative, sets specific policies and rates for connecting PV systems to the grid, as well as for purchasing any excess energy your system may produce.

Questions to ask your Solar Contractor

When approached by a Solar Contractor, ask these questions BEC has generated to ensure your potential contractor knows the business thoroughly and has other satisfied customers.

How long have you been in business in Texas?
Are you a licensed contractor in Texas?
Can you provide a list of consumer references in the area? Can I talk with former customers and see successful installations?
Who will do the actual installation of the system at my house? Are they employees or subcontractors? If you utilize subcontractors, do they work on the majority of your projects?
Does your company carry these types of insurance: general liability of at least $1 Million, professional liability, and other types?

Ask these questions about the actual construction and installation at your residence.

What size and type of system do you recommend for my house and why?
What steps or prep work are required prior to construction?
What warranties do you and the manufacturer offer?
What tax credits, rebates, or other incentives will this system qualify for?
Can I add solar panels later if my energy usage changes?
What are the work hours I should expect?
Is it possible for the installation to cause my roof to leak? If so, does your company take responsibility for the repairs?
What permitting will be needed for this installation? Who handles any associated fees for these?

Avoid Solar Scams

Be cautions of scams and false clams used by solar installers.
BEC does not have a sponsorship or partnership with any solar installers. BEC will never try to sell you a product or service, or partner with anyone who does.
Call us at (254) 527-3551 if you have questions about claims made by a solar salesperson(s).
Some common tactics to be aware of include:
- Installers who make false claims about excessive annual utility rate increases.
- Installers who encourage you not to reach out to BEC.
- Misleading Projected Savings
- Deceptive sales tactics that rush you into making decisions or singing a contract prior to you researching on your own.
- False claims that you will not have utility bills anymore or will make money from the energy generated.

BEC Solar Process

STEP 1

To initiate the process, please email solar@bartlettec.coop with your Member Application and Design attached.

Please see BEC's DG Tariff and DG Procedures & Guidlines Manual for reference.

STEP 2

After receiving your application, BEC will apply a $200.00 application fee to your account.

STEP 3

Once payment is processed, BEC will begin reviewing your application and design. Permission to start the installation of the system will be granted upon approval.

STEP 4

After completing the construction phase, please email solar@bartlettec.coop to notify us that you are ready for the system inspection.

STEP 5

Within 10-12 business days, BEC will send a representative to conduct the inspection and perform a meter exchange, replacing it with a bi-directional meter for the system.

STEP 6

Finally, BEC will send a confirmation email stating that the inspection has passed and that you are authorized to operate the system on a specified date.

Solar FAQs

Solar energy, or Photovoltaic (PV) systems, work when sunlight hits a solar PV module (solar panel or PV panel) and causes electric current to flow. The current produced by the PV panels is controlled and regulated by an inverter, which converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), necessary for use by household appliances. The electrical panel is where the power is distributed throughout your house; any excess electricity may be sent from the panel back to the Cooperative’s electrical grid.

Battery-backed or grid-independent systems utilize on-site energy storage to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or when the sun isn't producing enough power. Selecting this option will significantly increase costs and maintenance for your system.
With grid-connected systems, your cooperative continues to provide energy to you when you need it, 24/7. On sunny days, the PV system will produce energy, and even excess energy. Your system will not collect sunlight at night or on cloudy days. This means you will continue to draw electricity from your cooperative during these times.

Effective January 1, 2023, the price paid by the Cooperative for any excess energy produced by the Member shall be the Cooperative’s avoided energy cost of wholesale energy for generation. The Cooperative will pay the member at a current rate of 4.81 cents per kWh monthly for all the metered kWh output and will apply it to the account as a credit.

Certified PV products and systems are generally reliable:
- They have a life expectancy of about 30 years.
- Manufacturers test PV panels for hail impact, high wind, and freeze-thaw cycles to represent real-life situations.
- Most manufacturers offer 20- to 25-year warranties for panels; extended warranties may be available at an extra cost.
Little maintenance is required; occasionally, it may be necessary to rinse modules off with water to remove dust and grime. Other components, like inverters, may have a shorter life. PV panels may outlast the roof they are attached to. Ensure your roof is in good shape, or budget for replacement during the system's life.

The direction your home faces will determine the amount of sunlight exposure your system will get. More Sun = more efficiency and generation.
The condition of your roof.
Obstructions such as trees and other buildings that can block the sun during peak generation periods of 9 AM to 3 PM. Your solar vendor will be able to provide a detailed analysis of your house to determine if Solar is right for you.

Solar. What to know!