Page 188 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

164 CALIFORNIA SOLAR INITIATIVE PROGRAM

solar PV rebate application forms, must be provided to the program administrator
for evaluation purposes.
Energy-efficiency audits can be conducted either by calling an auditor or by
accessing a special Web page provided by each administrative entity. In some
instances, energy audits can be waived if the applicants can provide a copy of an
audit conducted in the past 3 years or provide proof of a California Title 24
Energy Certificate of Compliance, which is usually calculated by mechanical engi-
neers. Projects that have a national LEED certification are also exempt from energy
audits.

Warranty and Performance

Permanency Requirements

As mentioned earlier, all major system components are required to have a minimum
of 10 years of warranty by manufacturers and installers alike. All equipment, including
PV modules and inverters, in the event of malfunction, are required to be replaced at
no cost to the client. System power-output performance, in addition to electrical equip-
ment breakdown, must include 15 percent power-output degradation from the original
rated projected performance for a period of 10 years.
To be eligible for the CSI, all solar power system installations must be permanently
attached or secured to their platforms. PV modules supported by quick-disconnect means
or installed on wheeled platforms or trailers are not considered legitimate stationary
installations.
During the course of project installation, the owner or his or her designated repre-
sentative must maintain continuous communication with the program administrator
and provide all required information regarding equipment specifications, warranties,
platform configuration, all design revisions and system modifications, updated construction
schedules, and construction status on a regular basis.
In the event that the locations of PV panels are changed and panels are
removed or relocated within the same project perimeters or service territory, then
owner must inform the CSI administrator and establish a revised PBI payment
period.

Insurance

At present, the owner or the host customer of all systems delivering 30 kW or more and
receiving CSI payments is require to carry a minimum level of general liability insurance.
Installers also must carry workers’ compensation and business auto insurance coverage.
Since U.S. government entities are self-insured, program administrators will only require
proof of coverage.