APS to test idea of free solar panels on homes

clipped from www.worldofphotovoltaics.com The utility wants to give special electric rates to 200 or so customers in a northeastern Flagstaff neighborhood in exchange for putting free solar panels on their roofs. The project is the latest push from the utility to meet requirements to increase the amount of renewable energy it provides to customers and also will serve as a research project to pave the way for a day when many homes use solar power. APS officials plan to ask regulators to approve the $14.7 million pilot project so they can see whether it inspires more people to use solar power and also can research how the utility grid operates with many solar systems on the same power line. If the test succeeds, APS wants to offer the program throughout its area. APS will own and maintain the solar panels, and customers will get a discount on their bills based on how much electricity the systems are expected to produce. "Requiring customers to pay $15,000-$20,000 up-front for solar power just won't work," CEO Don Brandt said.