Solar Myths
False. Electric cooperatives have supported home power installations for many years. Prairie Land has an interconnection agreement and a net metering tariff that outlines the requirements to ensure that the interconnection is safe and that any extra power generated by your system is credited toward the power purchased in the same month.
False. There is a lot of variation between when solar power generates and when homes use energy. Due to this variation, solar-powered homes connected to the cooperative still rely on the grid for about half of their power needs. Your cooperative requires all members connected to the lines to pay for the energy they use to supplement the solar production. Members also pay fees for ongoing maintenance and operation of the system, as well as other fees that vary depending on your location. Credit for extra generation cannot exceed the amount of energy purchased during the month.
False. Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit electricity providers in your community and will always support what is in the best interest of their members. Involving the cooperative early in the process will allow for a contractor-homeowner-cooperative partnership that will help ensure the best possible outcome for our member. Prairie Land can explain the interconnection process, assist with the application, discuss net metering payment terms, provide annual electric consumption data and coordinate the required interconnection work needed from the cooperative.
False. Zero money down solar systems seem enticing for members-especially those who currently have difficulty paying their bill. We urge extra caution when entering this kind of contract. Often what seems like too good of a deal usually is. These offers sometimes come with inflated costs, high-interest rates and extended payment terms. All too often they offer the promise of a lower to even no electric bill. Prairie Land has been your trusted energy advisor for more than 80 years and we would be glad to assist you in this process and help you understand how your bill would be affected.
Perhaps. No one knows solar installations better than the contractor. Likewise, no one knows electricity (billing, net metering, interconnection, etc.) better than your electric provider. Each electric provider handles interconnection agreements in their own way, so if you are considering solar for your home, the best solution is to establish a contractor-homeowner-cooperative partnership early in the process so there are no surprises.
Solar Resources
