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» Resources » FAQs
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FAQs
The founder of Prometheus Renewables, Jim Corning, started with solar-electric systems
by installing a 2.5 kW system at his own home. Realizing how simple and reliable the
systems were, he felt that more people should have the opportunity to save money by
installing their own system. Most solar-electric companies will charge over
$75.00/hour for installation. This can mean thousands of dollars in installation
costs. Solar-electric is by no means rocket science, so we encourage you to find
out for yourself how simple the process can be.
How do I get started?
You can start the process by contacting us for a free site evaluation
and system quote. You can also elect to sign up for one of our six week
Do-It-Yourself Photovoltaics Workshops
at the Willow Bend Environmental Education Center in Flagstaff. Our Learn about Photovoltaics
page also offers a solid overview in grid-tie solar.
Do I need a licensed electrician for the installation?
Absolutely. Because of this, we ensure a licensed electrician is involved from the beginning of the
installation process. He or she must approve the installation and complete all the necessary electrical
connections for the system. The bulk of the work, including module mounting, concrete, conduit, trenching
and wire pulling can be completed by the customer. Depending on how much work you decide to do yourself,
a licensed electrician will typically require 4-8 hours to complete the job. We have a recommended
electrician that we like to work with, but you are welcome to choose your own.
How does the process work?
Once we have completed a site evaluation and finalized a system design, the next step would involve meeting
with a licensed electrician at the job site to plan the installation. Because APS/SRP requires a licensed
electrician for the electrical work, this allows us an opportunity to determine how much of the work you are
comfortable completing. This also allows the electrician to provide you with an estimate for his or her
portion of the work. Remember that a licensed electrician must approve the system and complete all electrical
connections. Once we agree on the way ahead, we would apply for the APS/SRP rebate and county/city permit.
Our staff will complete the entire permit process for you including the required site plans, electrical
drawings and forms. At the same time, we would order any specific hardware needed for your installation.
The permit/approval process typically takes 3-6 weeks depending on the type of installation. Once the permits
are received, we will drop off the equipment and walk you through the installation. After you have completed
your portion, we'll schedule the electrician to complete the job. Upon completion, an inspection will be
required by the city/county and APS before initializing the system. The entire installation process will
likely take 60-120 days from start to finish.
What if I'm not comfortable completing the work on my own?
No problem. If you're uncomfortable with any step of the installation, we will gladly have one of our
experienced installers help you at a discounted hourly rate. Even if you decide to have someone there to help
throughout the entire process, you can still save 75% or more on installation costs.
What about payment?
Once you decide you would like to proceed with an installation, we would ask for a 15% down payment to begin the
paperwork and order your equipment. Upon delivery of the equipment to your home, we would require the balance of
the system minus the APS rebate. This typically amounts to approximately 50-60% of the system cost. The final
payment would come in the form of the rebate check which can be sent directly to us. We do not receive final payment
until your system is inspected and approved by APS. This means it is in our best interest to ensure we are there for
you throughout the entire process. For the electrical work, we ask that you have a separate contract with the licensed
electrician.
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