TVA Generation Partners Program Ends September 30
The popular Generation Partners program will end on September 30, which means TVA will not approve any new Generation Partners applications after this date. LightWave Solar is encouraging all potential solar system owners to sign up under the existing program to lock in the 12 cent premium rate and avoid load requirements that will be implemented under the new Green Power Providers program.
To get in under the existing program, TVA and local power distributors need at least 4-6 weeks to process and approve Generation Partners applications. LightWave Solar recommends submitting applications (which include drawings and specifications) before September 1st.
The target date for the new incentive program, Green Power Providers, is October 1st. Applicants approved before December 31, 2012 will receive the 12 cents premium for 10 years. However, we anticipate that TVA and local distributors will be very busy during this time, and approvals are not guaranteed before the end of the year.
Green Power Provider applications signed in 2013 will receive a smaller premium from TVA. Premium rates have not been announced at this time. Another important program change is a load requirement which will limit the size of a solar system installed. TVA has not announced the specific requirement, but the intent is to limit solar system size to the electricity consumed on-site. Other changes include a cap on program participation and an application fee (amount has not been announced).
The new program will be a 20-year contract. TVA will pay a premium for solar kilowatt-hours during the first 10 years and then the retail rate for solar kilowatt-hours from years 11 through 20. Generation Partners participants will be able to sign up for the 10 year extension this year.
If you are interesting in installing a solar system, please contact us as quickly as possible to get your Generation Partners project in the queue for approval.
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