If you’re interested in installing a solar power system at your home or business, please contact one of our energy marketing specialists at 251.989.6247 for information.
You can also use our Solar Tool Calculator (below) to explore estimated installation costs, monthly savings, battery backup options, and projected payback time. This tool is designed to help our members make informed energy decisions with real-world estimates based on your property and system size preferences.
Solar Power FAQs
1. Does Baldwin EMC sell and install solar systems?
No. Baldwin EMC is solely a distribution cooperative.
2. What is an estimated cost of a solar installation?
It isn’t easy to give a definitive answer because it depends on coverage, equipment, labor, etc. However, the Solar Tool Calculator (above) is a great way for you to have a general idea of how much a system will cost.
3. What is the process of having solar installed?
Step 1: Member submits completed application for interconnecting member-owned generation, including all generator facility information and spec sheets, to Baldwin EMC’s Energy Services Department for approval. NOTE: Projects greater than 10 KW will require a facilities study to be coordinated.
Step 2: After receiving approval from Baldwin EMC, members may proceed with the installation process. Installation must adhere to all technical requirements set fourth by Baldwin EMC.
Step 3: Member notifies Baldwin EMC once installation is complete.
Step 4: Baldwin EMC’s Energy Services department will coordinate a commissioning test to ensure the generation connection will not compromise the cooperative’s safety standards.
Step 5: Once the commissioning test is complete and all requirements have been met, the member will sign the interconnection agreement on the day of commissioning.
Step 6: Member has Baldwin EMC’s approval to operate distributed generation equipment.
4. What are the standard fees to connect solar to Baldwin EMC?
The Member is required to pay all costs associated with connecting the distributed generation resources to the Cooperative’s distribution system. Should modifications be required on the distribution system, the Member is required to pay all costs associated with the upgrades/modifications to the Cooperative’s distribution system. Additionally, installations that are large (generally greater than 1,000 kW) modifications may be required by the Cooperative’s power supplier to accommodate the installation. The Member is also required to pay those associated costs as well. The estimates for the modifications shall be identified in the Facilities Study (if required).
5. Does my rate change when I install solar?
Yes. You will go on a Time of Use rate.
Basic Service Charge of $46.95 plus:
$ .32 per kWh for all on-peak kWh
$ .05321 per kWh for all off-peak kWh
Summer Period (April – October)
Peak: Hour beginning at 3:00 p.m. through hour ending at 6:00 p.m.
Off Peak: All remaining hours
Winter Period (November – March)
Peak: Hour beginning at 6:00 a.m. through hour ending at 8:00 a.m.
Off Peak: All remaining hours
6. Can I install my solar system?
Yes. The facilities must meet all applicable safety and code standards as required by Federal, State and local agencies. Additionally, the connecting facility must comply with IEEE 1547, as well as all applicable standards from North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and other governing agencies.
7. Does Baldwin EMC pay us for any solar power that we generate?
A Purchase Power Agreement is a contract to purchase the energy that is exported to the distribution system from the generation resource. The Cooperative or Power South Energy Cooperative may purchase the exported power from installations with an aggregate capacity of less than 50kW, and Power South Energy Cooperative may purchase the exported power from installations with an aggregate capacity of 51kW and greater.
8. What is the typical size of a residential solar installation?
Typically, less than 10KW.
9. Does every solar system have to be connected to the grid?
No. Off-grid systems do not connect to the electric grid. These are typically connected to a battery system, charged by solar panels, so electricity will be available when the sun is not shining.
10. Does Baldwin EMC have a contact I can talk with about solar installation?
Yes. You may contact one of our energy marketing specialists.
Sawyer McCullough
Phone # 251-989-0120
Smccullough@baldwinemc.com
Callie Hyatt
Phone # 251-989-0192
Caroley@baldwinemc.com