and always check out the local grid. People here get a thumbs up, do the work, then get hit with huge charges.
Philly.com
Kevin Dunleavy, an environmentally conscious roofing contractor, was anxious to start installing a new solar array on a hill in his Chester County yard.
He meticulously researched solar panels, took an online certification course, and, with an electrician, crafted detailed plans, down to the font size of lettering on the electrical service panel.
But there was one thing he didn’t anticipate: a $45,000 estimate from Peco to hook into the utility grid. That connection is crucial, because on sunny days, the system could generate excess power that would go to the grid. Conversely, on cloudy days, Dunleavy might need power from the grid.
In essence, the power company told him the distribution system near his home was too small to handle the amount of energy his backyard array might kick back into the grid. Equipment would have to be upgraded not only along the rolling road he lives off in the Marshallton section of West Bradford Township, but farther down the road as well.
“I never expected that they would not be able to take my energy,” Dunleavy said. “I was blown away by that. I invested a lot of time and passion.” In fact, he is hoping to make solar part of his business, if he can succeed with his own setup.
Besides, he said, he simply can’t afford it. He’s already sunk more than $6,000 into planning his array, tree work, the online course, permitting, and deposits. That doesn’t include an additional $18,000 for the solar panels themselves.
Peco gave him until mid-September to come up with a $4,500 nonrefundable deposit. He’s scrambling now for an answer. Dunleavy said that he believes the utility has tried to work with him, but that he’s being asked to shoulder a burden for upgrades that will benefit other customers who might install solar in the future.
