Project Considerations

Before investing in a renewable energy system, you should consider the following:

Zoning – Check with your local government on ordinances for zoning. City of Columbus Building and Zoning

Finding a Qualified Contractor – A contractor is not required to install the renewable energy system, but you may consider using a contractor that has North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification.

Size/Capacity – Consult with your contractor to assure your generating equipment is sized appropriately to ensure the safety and reliability of the electric system.

Utility – Consult with the DOP prior to the installation of the DER project to assure all electric distribution system interconnection requirements are met.

Cost Considerations – Installing equipment to generate power at your home or business can be expensive and is a long-term investment. Review all impacts to make certain your expectations will be met. This calculator (courtesy & maintained by the NREL) allows homeowners, small building owners, installers and manufacturers to easily develop estimates of the performance of potential installations. 

Saving money - If your goal is to reduce energy usage and save on your bills, you may want to start by making your home more efficient before investing in a renewable energy system. Visit our Home Conservation Tips and Energy Savings Tips(PDF, 163KB) pages.

Inspections – Plan to have your installation inspected by the local authority that has jurisdiction for construction in your area. A building permit prior to construction may be required. City of Columbus inspections.

Net Metering – DOP does not have an authorized Net Metering rate and cannot purchase surplus generation from customer-owned DER facilities. Customer-owned DER facilities shall be intended only to offset part of the customer’s electrical energy requirements for the premises and are connected to the customer’s side of the meter, not to export to the grid. In the near future, DOP will conduct a comprehensive Rate Study to determine it’s the overall Net Metering policy. 

Resources:
Visit Columbus Building and Zoning for information on electric permits or to schedule the inspection; or check with your local government. 

Consumers Guide to Rooftop Solar(PDF, 108KB) (PDF) This two-page guide serves as a quick starting point when considering rooftop solar.

NREL PV Calculator Use this calculator to develop performance estimates potential DER installations.