Solar Installation Time Period
We were able to get a solar contract done before the NEM 2.0 deadline. However, since that time our financial situation has changed and we would like to wait to install, possibly until close to the end of the 3-year deadline for installation. However, the installer that did the application for us is saying that they can only hold projects open for a few months at a time without the salesperson having to petition to keep it open (it has been held open a few times already) as permits expire and so on, and that our project could be cancelled and we would lose NEM 2.0 status if we don't install sooner rather than later. We need to look closer at our contract, but does anyone know in general if the installer is allowed to pull out given that the customer is supposed to have 3 years to install? What are the regulations that specify the requirements regarding when installation must occur and whether the company is bound to install as long as it is within the 3-year period? Thank you in advance for any insight you can provide!
Parent Replies
I financed the entire solar project including main panel upgrade with zero down. There are still good deals out there. I couldn’t pull together the cash but I have have since paid it off.
I’d look at the interest payments vs the post-NEM PG&E fees.
Good Luck!
You can transfer your NEM application to another installer, but the first installer has to facilitate the transfer, which could be messy. I would first check your contract terms. If you're not beholden to the contractor I would just tell them "we can't install until x date" and see what they say. You do have to pay a fee periodically to keep permits active. It's also a rough time for solar and the company may or may not be here two years from now. If your contract does specify a timeframe for installation, then you'll have to decide whether it's worth it to move forward or whether you'd rather cancel the project. NEM 2.0 status is valuable, but if your finances are strained I wouldn't add to the challenge with a high interest loan (especially if your changing finances may mean you sell your home before the breakeven point for the panels). Good luck with the decision!