by Jeff Aliotta | Oct 29, 2018 | Renu Solar News
The N.C. Sustainable Energy Association recently headed up the creation for the first ever code of professional conduct for solar installers who contract with residential and commercial clients for full-service solar projects. The NC Solar Code of Conduct makes sure that all solar installations meet the proper requirements to provide the highest quality of service.
As reported in the Charlotte Business Journal Duke Energy is running rebate program from 2018-2022 that’s offering savings on projects for eligible customers. Renu Energy Solutions joins with several other members of the organization of sustainable energy businesses to establish baseline professional codes for the industry.
Mike Davis, Director of membership for the Raleigh-based NCSEA, says: “A code of professional conduct is a good thing for any industry. But we have seen an influx of new players in the market (after Duke offered the rebates) and that gave us a sense of urgency.”
Who’s Chasing the Incentives?
When Duke Energy rolled out solar rebates this past spring — mandated by last year’s Competitive Energy Solutions for NC Act — North Carolina notably jumped back up into the top-tier market for residential and commercial solar.
But evidently, a lot of installers who were not in North Carolina previously are getting on the scene now because of local incentives provided through the utility. Installers native to the area are looking to be vigilant and make sure that newcomers can be held accountable for practices that consumers don’t like and shouldn’t have to deal with, which according to the Charlotte Business Journal’s reporting include “high-pressure sales, over-promising on incentives that don’t come through, overselling potential savings and, in some cases, doing shoddy workmanship.”
Ensuring Integrity and Quality, Together
From this point on, NCSEA will not accept new members or retain existing members who do not adhere to the professional conduct described in the code. “We want to be able to assure the public that our members are upholding the highest standards in the industry,” he says. Renu Energy Solutions and other signatories pledge to refrain from deceptive or misleading advertising, never refer to renewable energy as “free” when it isn’t, or to inflate the impact of future rate increases by utilities to solar seem more attractive.
At Renu Energy Solutions in Charlotte, which has grown in recent years to employ 30 people at our Charlotte and Jamestown offices, we’ve by and large heard few reports of solar companies preying on customers’ lack of knowledge. The solar ecosystem here is filled with high-quality firms. But in light of the 60 cents per watt rebate for residential solar, perhaps this code of conduct is overdue or at least well-timed. These incentives can lure all kinds of solar players and we hope to consumers can feel confident choosing someone who’s a part of this code of conduct. We know that any time one person or company has a bad experience with a solar installer, it’s a detriment to all of us.
The Right Standards for Solar in NC
The NC Solar Code of Conduct was designed to provide each customer with the highest of standards. But where did these standards come from? NCSEA and its members reviewed codes of conduct from other states, including in particular South Carolina and California, to develop some initial proposals. Through meetings and conversations with its 27 solar installation and financing members, the group made refinements until the companies finally adopted it. Look at it for yourself and learn what it means to abide by the NC solar installers’ code.
by Jeff Aliotta | Oct 8, 2018 | Energy Storage, Renu Solar News
Mark Phillips has installed a rooftop electric system at home and greened his warehouse
future home of solar panels at the warehouse
OCTOBER 8, 2018 – HIGH POINT, NC – The signature wood and stone furnishings and sculptures from Phillips Collection stand out in any room. Owner Mark Phillips has recently received attention for a different distinction: He’s completed major energy efficiency retrofits to his 166,000-square-foot headquarters of the furniture wholesale business to demonstrate environmental responsibility. At an electric cooperative conference in Asheville where he was invited to speak, he explained the many energy-saving changes they’ve made, including:
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Removing all halogen bulbs from track lighting and replacing with articulated LED fixtures newly invented for this purpose that make use of existing track (in collaboration with ERD of Kernersville) eliminating the need for expensive rewiring, and reducing cooling needs and lighting cost. They even acquired a specialized bulb disposal machine for the job.
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Right-sized the incoming power transformers with help from ElectriCITIES, modifying the facility’s demand
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Put in 3 electric vehicle charging spaces outside offering free power for customers who can plug in
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Implementing a solar installation for the business
Furniture wholesale and design has long been a part of High Point’s culture and Mark’s company specializes in designing organic pieces that embrace natural materials. From mango and acacia tree roots to reclaimed teak, Phillips Collection sources sustainable materials and transforms them into prized conversation pieces. Mark acknowledges that his business depends largely on natural ecology and travels to Thailand to ensure that the next generation of arborists and carpenters are ready to continue a steady relationship with him and his team. On a recent visit he rallied a group of 400 — comprised of local students, teachers, factory workers, villagers and local officials — and together they planted 6,000 trees in a single day.
using less power, storing and showcasing the same great furniture designs
Phillips went solar at his home this month, and the business installation is scheduled for October. Renu Energy Solutions is providing both the residential and commercial installations. Combined they add up to 45 kiloWatts in total size, estimated to produce over 63,000 kiloWatt hours of solar power in its first year.
About his choice to go solar, he says: “My father always said the big decisions in life are obvious. This was one of those.” For Mark, addressing energy sustainability expresses his values, and at the same time he notes that he’s likely to come out ahead by betting that the cost of electricity isn’t going down. He says he committed to energy efficiency and solar at his business and home to save money and because, “it’s the right thing to do.”
Phillips Collection Owner Mark Phillips will be available to talk about his experience pursuing energy efficiency and green standards before and during this upcoming event.
Meet Mark Phillips during Phillips Collection’s Showroom Party (IHFC C-202) High Point Market
210 East Commerce Ave, 2nd Floor C-202, High Point, NC 27260
Saturday, October 13, 2018 beginning at 3 pm – event will be underway at 4 pm
by Jeff Aliotta | Dec 20, 2016 | Renu Solar News
Fort Mill couple throws solar party: This article appeared in the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association’s Newsletter
Keegan and Ali Ford were excited to share their recently installed rooftop solar project with their friends and neighbors. So they did something unique and hosted a reception at their home. As guests mingled in the November sunshine, they enjoyed hot dogs, burgers, and hands-on education, about how their household investment has helped the Fords achieve their energy goals.
The Fords’ solar array was more affordable than the family expected because it nearly eliminated their monthly bills. It also opened guests’ eyes to how this clean resource can meet (or exceed) a homeowner’s energy needs. Partygoers got the chance to talk with the solar energy professionals at Renu Energy Solutions, a Charlotte-based company who completed the installation and permitting process, about how they too can take advantage of these benefits. In fact, some guests made arrangements with the solar installer to get their free energy consultation.
The Ford family made their solar party a lighthearted affair all their own. Host Keegan Ford summed up the occasion, “We wanted our closest friends and colleagues to have an opportunity to learn to get some information while sharing some food, fun, and sun!”
Renu Energy Solutions is also an NCSEA member who subscribed to industry best practices, as outlined in the Consumer Guide to Customer-Owned Solar Photovoltaic.
by Jeff Aliotta | Oct 11, 2016 | Renu Solar News
Residents Urge Neighbors to Go Solar and Save Big, While the Program Lasts
October 11, 2016 – SC solar customers including homeowners and small businesses have benefitted from big savings on solar energy this year, thanks to a hefty rebate from Duke Power that’s still available.
The rebate was introduced one year ago with the intent to spur solar growth in South Carolina. It was put in place in order to get more renewable energy onto the grid while driving economic activity and saving customers money on their bills in the long run.
The program has enjoyed steady participation over that time, and while the program is 60% used, there remain sufficient funds to support thousands of more kilowatts of solar installations, and some customers may still be able to save on solar systems put in this year.
One Duke customer is calling on homeowners who might be eligible for the program to act now.
Seth Williams, one of the SC solar customers with Duke, recently got solar installed at his home with help from Duke’s rebate. “I was very happy, and I was able to clearly see the financial sense of solar power because of this rebate. Duke’s incentive is one of the most competitive in the country, and saving money was my reason for going solar, bottom line.” He encourages people to look at how the rebate – which can potentially be combined with federal and state tax incentives – puts the purchase of a solar energy system within reach for many more SC customers than ever before.
Solar installers local to the area say the program has contributed to the health of the industry in the region over the past 12 months. Jay Radcliffe is President of Renu Energy Solutions, a local business that offers solar energy installation services in upstate South Carolina and the surrounding area. He says: “Duke’s rebate itself can cover 25-33% of the price of a solar installation, and so especially when taken along with the 30% federal tax credit state and 25% South Carolina tax credit, it is redefining solar power right now as a highly affordable option.”
Duke’s rebate of $1 per watt will be in effect under program funds run out. Speak with a representative of Renu Energy Solutions and arrange a no-cost solar energy consultation by calling 704-525-6767, or online at renuenergysolutions.com. Contact Duke Power or review its website for further program specifics. Individuals should see a tax professional about the active tax credits referenced here.
