What permits will I need?

Prior to installation, you must apply for a building and/or an electrical permit from your local building department. The installation contractor typically obtains the necessary permits and includes these costs in the overall system price. In some cases, the contractor may not know how much time or cost will be involved in “pulling” a permit. If so, this task may be priced on a time-and-materials basis, particularly if additional drawings or calculations are required by the permitting agency. In any case, make sure you discuss permitting costs and responsibilities with your contractor.

Code requirements may vary between jurisdictions, but most are based on the National Electrical Code (NEC). Article 690 of the NEC specifies system design and installation requirements for solar electric systems, and the building inspector will rely on this while reviewing your system. If you are among the first in your community to install a solar electric system, you can speed the process by working closely with building officials (along with your contractor) and providing them with the technical information they may need.

If your community has a homeowners’ association that must approve a solar electric system, you or the contractor will need to submit your plans to obtain approval from the association before beginning the installation.

How do I obtain an Interconnection/Net Metering Agreement?

This agreement is required to connect your system to the electric utility. It specifies terms and conditions, technical requirements, safety testing requirements, etc. You’ll receive an Interconnection Application from the electric utility with your New Jersey Clean Energy Program incentive reservation confirmation. If you would like a copy prior to receiving your confirmation, contact your electric utility representative, or click here for an online copy.

What about Utility and Code inspection sign-off?

After installation, the system must be inspected and approved by a representative of the local permitting agency (a building or electrical inspector) and by the utility that holds your interconnection agreement. Inspectors may require installation contractors to make corrections after installation, but don’t be concerned, as this is not unusual. A copy of the permit with final inspection sign-off must be completed in order to receive the New Jersey's Clean Energy Program incentive.

What warranties do I need?

Systems must be covered by a full (not “limited”) five-year warranty and any manufacturers’ warranties on specific components. Coverage must include all parts and labor, plus the cost of removing, shipping and reinstalling or replacing a defective component.

You should know who is responsible for honoring warranties, whether it is the installation contractor or the manufacturer. Each should disclose their warranty responsibility. Make sure you read the document carefully, reviewing terms and conditions with the vendor. Understand financial arrangements, like contractor’s bonds, that assure the warranty is honored. A warranty doesn’t guarantee that a vendor will stay in business, so you need to know whom to contact in case of a problem. New Jersey's Clean Energy Program requires that you submit a Technical Worksheet that specifies warranty terms along with your Pre-Installation Application Form.