The energy revolution

The passage of the Energy Freedom Act earlier this month means big opportunities for the future of solar here.

Through this law, more homeowners and businesses will be able to take advantage of a renewable, clean energy source. In many instances, solar energy has the potential for customers to save money on their bills if it is done right and you do your homework.

Here is a step-by-step approach to take in considering a move toward solar.

• 1st, educate yourself.

The SC Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) Energy Office has developed www.solar.sc.gov , a solar energy web site It includes information about the benefits of solar, how to choose the right system for your needs, installation and maintenance, and costs and financial incentives. This site also includes a downloadable Consumer Guide to Solar for the South Carolina Homeowner that includes information that you need when choosing a solar system.

• 2nd, determine if solar is feasible in your area. Contact your electric provider, because you will need its approval to connect to the grid. Some providers do not buy back power and, among those who do, terms of the buy-back plans may vary.

If you are in a homeowners’ association, check with them to see if they allow solar.

• 3rd, find qualified contractors. Scammers prey on the uninformed. Do your homework. You can turn to groups that know South Carolina’s solar providers to help in your decision.

Non-profit organizations such as the SC Solar Council (www.scsolarcouncil.org ) and the SC Solar Business Alliance (www.solarbusinessalliance.com ) maintain lists The SC Residential Builders Commission (RBC) registers those who install solar panels. You can view that information at www.llr.sc.gov/POL/ResidentialBuilders/ .

• 4th, request several bids and ask questions. Contact several solar companies from qualified candidates, get multiple quotes, and ask for references. With competition on the rise, it is to your advantage to compare prices among comparable, qualified contractors. For a complete list of questions to ask your installer, check out http://solar.sc.gov/questionstoaskasolarinstaller .

Verify with the SC Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation that the company has a valid license and no complaints at https://www.llr.sc.gov/POL/Contractors/ .

• 5th, consider leasing. For information, visit the ORS website at https://regulatorystaff.sc.gov/consumers/electric-natural-gas/solar to ensure your company is approved.

Finally, consider community solar. In many territories, you can subscribe to off-site solar farms and receive credit for solar generation on energy bills each month.

Contact your utility to see if that is possible for you. If capacity is not available now, see if you can get added to a waiting list.

Nanette S. Edwards is executive director of the SC Office of Regulatory Staff.