Renewable Energy Generation Incentive Program
| Program Type | Rebate |
|---|---|
| Technologies | Photovoltaics and Wind Energy |
| Amount | $4,500 or 50 percent of system costs |
| Required Documentation | Application (being redeveloped as of November 2010): Final Incentive Request Form |
| Official Web Site | http://www.puc.nh.gov/Sustainable%20Energy/RenewableEnergyRebates.htm |
As of November 2011, the residential renewable electric generation rebate program is out of funds because of its popularity. The state Public Utility Commission’s Sustainable Energy Division continues to accept applications, however, because funds may become available as early as July 2011. And funds will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The division said, “There is no guarantee that sufficient funds will be available at that time to fund even those applications presently in the queue.”
In 2008, the state made available $5.78 million from its renewable energy fund to fund the rebate program. At that point the state offered rebates of $3.00 per watt of generation capacity, up to a maximum of $6,000 or 50 percent of the system’s cost, whichever is less. To accommodate demand, people applying after Sept.15,2010, were eligible for incentive payments of $1.25 per watt up to $4,500 or 50 percent of the system cost, whichever is less. However, since then the program has run out of funds. The commission said it also is in the process of creating additional rebate programs for residential and commercial renewable energy systems.
The current program covered systems up to 5 kW in size. Two steps were required to receive the rebate. First the resident must apply for pre-approval prior to installing the system. Upon completing installation, the system owner must submit their final incentive application. The state sent the rebate after receiving the final approval.
Installed systems had to be located at the owner’s residence, whether it was a solar or wind system. PV systems must meet UL 1703 standards. Renewable energy systems did not have to be grid-tied to qualify for the incentive.
The program is funded through alternative compliance payments made as a result of New Hampshire’s RPS. Since municipal utilities are exempt from the RPS law, customers of the municipal utilities were not eligible for the rebate.
