Page 189 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

CSI LIMITATIONS 165

Grid Interconnection

and Metering Requirements

The main criteria for grid integration are that the solar power cogeneration system must
be permanently connected to the main electrical service network. As such, portable
power generators are not considered eligible. In order to receive the incentive payment,
the administrator must receive proof of grid interconnection. To receive additional
incentives, customers whose power demands coincide with California’s peak electricity
demand become eligible to apply for time-of-use (TOU) tariffs that could increase their
energy payback. All installed meters must be physically located so as to allow the
administrator’s authorized agents to have easy access for tests or inspection.

Inspection

All systems rated from 30 to 100 kW that have not adopted a PBI will be inspected
by specially designated inspectors. In order for the system to receive the incentive
payment, the inspectors must verify system operational performance, installation
conformance to application, eligibility criteria, and grid interconnection. System
owners who have opted for EPBB incentives must install the PV panels in the proper
orientation and produce power that is reflected in the incentive application.
In the event of inspection failure, the owner will be advised by the administrator about
shortcomings regarding materials or compliance, and they must be mitigated within
60 days. Failure to correct the problem could result in cancellation of the application and
a strike against the installer, applicant, seller, or any other party deemed responsible.
Entities identified as responsible for mitigating the problem, if failed 3 times, will be
disqualified from participating in CSI programs for a period of 1 year.

CSI Limitations

Prerequisites for processing in the CSI program are based on the premise that a project’s
total installed, out-of-pocket expenses by the owner do not exceed the eligible costs. For
this reason, the owner or applicant must prepare a detailed project cost breakdown that
will highlight only the relative embedded costs of the solar power system. A worksheet
designed for this purpose is available on the CSI Web page.
It is important to note that clients are not permitted to receive incentives from other
sources. In the event that a project may be qualified to receive an additional incentive
from another source for the same power cogenerating system, the first incentive
amount will be discounted by the amount of the second incentive received. In essence,
the overall combined incentive amount must not exceed total eligibility costs.