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Customer Owned Solar

 
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Generating power from the sun is one of the cleanest and greenest ways to produce electricity. Using solar power helps reduce the level of emissions released into the environment and results in cleaner air and water for everyone. It also reduces our dependence on fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. Private-solar, also knows as "rooftop solar" or "solar PV," enables home and business owners to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their roofs to supply some portion of their home's power needs.


Customers who install approved renewable generation systems at their home or business and connect them to JEA's electric grid are required to participate in the Distributed Generation (DG) program. By participating in the DG program, a customer is able to buy electricity from JEA when their renewable generation system doesn't produce enough energy to meet their needs, and sell (kWh) to the grid when it produces more energy than needed at that moment.  

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Distributed Generation Policy Summary

Generation Range  Energy (kWh) Received (Purchased) from JEA  Energy (kWh) Delivered (Sold) to JEA  Notes 
DG-1 (up to 2 MW) Retail Rate ($0.10283) Fuel Rate ($0.03050)

 

  • Interconnection Agreement required

Solar Bill Example

 

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Commercial Distributed Generation Policy Summary

Generation Range  Energy (kWh) Received (Purchased) from JEA  Energy (kWh) Delivered (Sold) to JEA  Notes 
DG-1 (up to 2 MW) Retail Rate (Varies) Fuel Rate ($0.03050)
  • SS-1 Service may be required > 50 kW
  • Application fee required > 100 kW
  • Interconnection Agreement Required
  • PPA may be required 
DG-2D (Over 2 MW - Distribution Level Connection) Retail Rate (Varies) Avoided Cost (for PURPA Qualifying Facility) 
  • SS-1 Service may be required
  • Application fee required 
  • Interconnection Agreement Required
  • PPA may be required 
DG-2T (Over 2 MW - Transmission Level Connection)  Retail Rate (Varies) Avoided Cost (for PURPA Qualifying Facility) 
  • SS-1 Service may be required
  • Application fee required
  • Interconnection Agreement required 

Solar Bill Example

 

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Considerations Before Going Solar

There are a number of factors to evaluate before installing a solar PV array on your home or business. Our Consumer's Guide to Solar Power can help you make an informed decision when deciding whether or not to install a solar PV system.

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When making your decision, be sure to consider the following:

Location: In Jacksonville, optimal conditions for rooftop solar panels include homes with a southern-facing orientation free from shade created by trees, buildings or even other parts of your home. Your installer’s estimate should indicate how much energy your specific system is expected to produce and the economic value of that energy.

Energy Efficiency: Before going solar, reduce your overall electricity usage by making energy-efficient upgrades. Making your home or small business more energy efficient reduces the amount of power you use from any source and may allow you to purchase a smaller solar PV system. Not sure how energy-efficient your home or small business is? JEA offers free energy efficiency assessments as well as residential rebates for upgrading your home or commercial rebates for upgrading your business. Our energy experts will evaluate your house or small business and recommend measures you can take to make it as energy-efficient as possible.

Roof Condition: Considering mounting solar panels to your roof? Be sure it will hold up as long as the panels–which are designed to last more than 20 years–as removing and reattaching them from a rooftop can be expensive. Make any needed roof repairs prior to purchasing a solar PV system. Another factor to consider is the size of your roof. While a solar PV system can be sized to fit both the roof space available and your budget, it may not satisfy all of your home’s energy needs.

Duration in Home: Purchasing a solar PV system is a significant investment–one that can take some time to recoup. Before adding a solar PV system, consider how long you plan to stay in your home or business, and whether the number of occupants and/or daily schedules will change in the near future. If you plan to move within the next five years, you may want to reconsider making the purchase at this time. JEA SolarSmart is an option for people who want to support solar but do not want to make a long-term commitment.

 

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Homeowners Associations: While the state of Florida has statutes in place to allow solar energy systems to be installed on residences, homes located in historic preservation zones or neighborhoods with Homeowners Associations (HOA) may still require approval by the designated groups. Be sure to consult with these groups before installing any solar PV systems.

Townhomes and Condos: While such units may be owned, the roofs are typically shared with other units, which in some cases may prevent the installation of solar panels. JEA SolarSmart is a viable option for customers in townhomes and condos.

Renters: Unless a solar PV system is installed by the owner/landlord, renters typically are not able to invest in solar energy. JEA SolarSmart is also an option for renters.

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Working with Solar Contractors

Purchasing a solar PV system is a big decision. JEA recommends you use our buyer's checklist to help you purchase the system that is right for you and find the right contractor.

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  • Complete cost-effective energy-efficient home improvements recommended by JEA’s efficiency expert so that you purchase a PV system that best meets the energy needs of your home. Learn about our free energy efficiency assessments
  • Determine if your rooftop or yard is the better fit for a solar PV system. The best fit area is one that is southern facing with little or no shade. Unshaded east and west facing areas are feasible, but their output is typically less than southern facing systems.
  • Research solar system types and determine which system best fits your home's energy needs. 
  • Learn the details about JEA's Distributed Generation Program and how to participate. 
  • Request proposals from several reputable solar system contractors.
  • Determine whether purchasing or financing a solar system is in your best interest. 
  • Analyze costs, projected system production, contractor proposals, equipment rebates, and available tax incentives to make the best choice for you and your home.

 

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Once you have chosen a contractor and PV system, the questions below are important to ask before signing a contract. 

  1. What will the total cost be from start to finish, including design, permits and construction?
  2. What is the warranted life of the solar panels?
  3. What parts are covered by warranties?
  4. What is required of the owner to keep the warranties in force?
  5. What actions or inactions will void the warranties?
  6. Can the system be modified in the future without affecting the warranties?
  7. How much will it cost to temporarily remove the system if roof work is needed in the future?
  8. Who will be responsible for getting the necessary permits?
  9. Are the permit costs included in the contract price?
  10. Are there any applicable state and federal tax credits or other available incentives?
  11. What are the expected annual operation and maintenance costs?
  12. What is the expected annual and lifetime energy generation based on the home’s orientation, shade, estimated costs, and savings?
  13. What portion of my energy consumption will be offset by the generation from the solar PV system?
  14. What purchase and financing options are available?

    If installing a battery storage system:
  15. What is the warranty for the battery system?
  16. What is required of the owner to keep the battery warranty in force?
  17. What actions or inactions will void the battery warranty?
  18. How are the batteries disposed of at the end of their life?

 

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Get Started Going Solar

JEA customers who install solar PV systems at their home or business and connect to JEA’s electric grid must apply for JEA's Distributed Generation Program. An application form must be submitted and approved by JEA prior to beginning installation or construction of any solar PV system.

Commercial customers who are considering installing a distributed generation system 60 kWDC (or 50 kWAC) or greater may be subjected to JEA Standby and Supplemental Service (SS-1) rate. 

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JEA's Battery Incentive Program offers an incentive on the purchase and installation of battery storage for customer-owned renewable energy systems.

Customers may also be eligible for a 26 percent federal tax credit. To learn more about applicable tax credit opportunities for solar PV, battery storage or other renewable technologies, please consult your tax professional or visit the IRS website to view the tax credit worksheet and application.

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If you have decided that solar is the right choice for you and your home, below are the steps to take prior to purchasing a system. 

Commercial customers: Determine the rate that will be applied to your commercial account when you connect a PV system

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Customer Care 

Residential

(904) 665-6000 or (800) 683-5542
Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Commercial

(904) 665-6250
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Email Commercial Services

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Related Links

  • Solar PV Buyer Checklist

    If you have decided to have a solar PV system installed at your home, below are the steps JEA recommends you follow to make sure you come out on top.