NC Solar Code of Conduct and Renu’s Commitment

NC Solar Code of Conduct and Renu’s Commitment

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.

Charlotte cosmetic surgery practice gets a solar lift

Charlotte cosmetic surgery practice gets a solar lift

Renu Energy Solutions completes installation for Capizzi MD

Renu Energy Solutions, also Charlotte-based, completed the solar system installation for Capizzi MD in March. It is located on the rooftop of the building and won’t be visible from any public spaces. It’s estimated the solar energy system will produce over 40,400 kiloWatt-hours of energy in the first year, reducing greenhouse gas pollution by the same amount as growing 780 tree seedlings for 10 years, by E.P.A. calculations. In its first 30 years of operation, the system will save over $250,000 in electricity costs.

“Solar has been on my radar for some time. It was my discussions with my son Seth, who is interested in sustainable resources and renewable energy, as well as a friend in Santa Barbara who went solar, that flipped the switch for me,” said Dr. Peter Capizzi.

The medical practice, which performs procedures for face, body, and breasts as well as popular non-surgical treatments, made use of incentives that encourage investment in solar. These include applying for a rebate for customers of Duke Energy Carolinas, a federal tax credit and a utility program called net energy metering, whereby utility customers with solar receive credit for any extra power they produce and send it to the grid.

Dr. Capizzi is proud to be part of the clean energy movement in the Carolinas, adding: “Growing up in New Hampshire taught me the benefits of having alternatives to fossil fuels for power and heating. These included hydroelectricity, nuclear, woodstoves in the house, and even in the early 1980s, we had a friend utilizing wind as well.”

Capizzi MD views its environmental commitment as an extension of a responsible, community-oriented approach. The practice also gives back through its charitable arm, the Capizzi MD Foundation, whose beneficiaries include Safe Alliance, supporting victims of domestic abuse. 

About the Customer

Capizzi MD is located in Dilworth at 900 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203. To learn more about Dr. Capizzi and the Capizzi MD practice, visit www.capizzimd.com, and join the discussion on Facebook and Twitter.

One Year In, SC Solar Customers Applaud Duke Solar Rebate

One Year In, SC Solar Customers Applaud Duke Solar Rebate

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.