Community-Based Renewable Energy Pilot Program
| Program Type | Performance-based Incentive |
|---|---|
| Technologies | Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal Electric, Solar Hot Water Heating |
| Amount |
$0.10 per kWh or renewable energy credit worth 150 percent of the value of electricity generated over life of contract |
| Required Documentation | Application with the Maine Public Utilities Commission |
| Official Web Site |
http://www.maine.gov/mpuc/electricity/community_pilot.shtml
|
The performance-based incentive pilot program was devised to encourage development of locally owned renewable energy resources. Overall, 50 megawatts (MW) of generating capacity can be permitted under the program. And individual system-owners can qualify for incentives on up to 10 MWs of generation. In addition, 10 MWs of power under the program are reserved for smaller installations—under 100 kW—like those installed at homes and small businesses.
Participants can qualify for an incentive of $0.10 per kWh generated under a long-term contract up to 20 years with their utility, or they can qualify for a renewable energy credit incentive worth 1.5 times the value of the electricity generated by the system.
To be eligible for the program, the system must be grid-tied and at least 51 percent of the system must be owned locally. Owners can include homeowners, local government entities, nonprofits and tribes. For projects larger than 100 kW, the municipality or tribe must provide documentation of community support for the project. Small generators need to contact their local utility to present their community-based certification and preferred contract terms. The utility will provide a standard contract form developed by the public utility commission, which must be returned by the system owner. The utility will then send the agreement to the commission.
