Start saving money and go green with solar energy.
Here’s how to get started.
Interested in solar energy, but intimidated by the process? Get in touch with OPPD early in the process to avoid unnecessary costs and delays — we’ll guide you toward the best choices for energy generation, every step of the way.
- Research solar or other generation equipment options.
Understanding the costs and benefits of solar energy is critical to making a well-informed decision. Be sure to consider financial factors such as upfront installation costs, financing costs and ongoing maintenance and replacement costs as well as benefits like Net Metering, tax credits and rebates.
It’s also a good idea to understand your area’s regulatory requirements and take advantage of any qualifying local or federal tax credits or incentives. Good resources are OPPD’s Customer-Owned Generation Interconnection Manual, the Nebraska Energy Office and energy.gov. - Calculate how much energy you’ll need to generate.
Find your average kilowatt-hours usage on your OPPD utility bills — here’s how to read your bill. Then, go to OPPD's Solar Calculator to calculate the correct size of system and expected payback. - Connect with a solar installer.
Use online directories, review sites and recommendations from friends and neighbors who have solar before selecting a contractor. Always get multiple bids and thoroughly review contracts prior to signing.
OPPD maintains a list of Solar Trade Allies in our Trade Ally Directory — experienced professionals who are regularly trained and evaluated by OPPD. Trade Allies also have the exclusive ability to apply for OPPD rebates on your behalf. - Get approval before purchasing any equipment.
Your contractor should contact OPPD to discuss requirements and to submit an OPPD Customer-Owned Generation Application.
For DIY installation: Use the PowerClerk Installer User Guide to request login credentials required to submit the application.
All customers are required to review and sign an Interconnection Agreement prior to installation as a part of the interconnection process.
The appropriate permits must be obtained through your local permitting and inspection authority (City, County or State) before beginning construction. Be sure to contact the permitting and inspection authority with questions on the process and requirements. - Secure equipment and begin installation.
Once the interconnection application and permit have been approved, you are ready to install your equipment and interconnect with the OPPD grid. Equipment cannot be operated until OPPD has completed a Witness Test even if you are expanding on an existing system. - Complete final inspections and schedule a Witness Test.
Once the system has passed inspection, OPPD will work with you or your contractor to schedule a Witness Test to ensure your equipment is operational and interconnected to the grid. We’ll also install a bidirectional meter so you can participate in our Net Metering program. You can then power up your system and begin generating your own electricity!
If customer-owned generation isn’t right for you, but you’re still interested in supporting renewable energy, check out our Community Solar and Greener Together programs.
Solar Energy FAQs
Got more questions? We’ve got answers.
Need more information?
For all other questions about customer-owned energy generation, please email productsandservices@oppd.com or 531-226-3510.