As your local electric provider, we are your source for energy and information. Interest in wind and solar generation is growing, and we are here to help answer any questions you might have.
We ask that all members have a solar audit with CECA as the first step in the interconnection process. During this audit CECA representatives will present the Interconnection Agreement and Application and walk both members and solar installers through our interconnection process.
We have included below more information about distributed generation and assistance in making decisions about whether wind or solar is a good option for you.
Distributed Generation
CECA wants to assist cooperative members interested in owning and installing a renewable generation system. If you are a member of Comanche Electric Cooperative and are interested in interconnected solar or wind generation, call us at 800-915-2533 or send an e-mail to memberservices@ceca.coop for complete information.
Things you need to know:
- There are rules concerning proper equipment, safety, liability and metering. Please contact us before you start your project to be sure your plans comply and your project goes smoothly.
- CECA Requires a Solar Audit prior to accepting any DG applications. Members and Solar Installers can review CECAs Distributed Generation Guidelines Manual to help familiarize themselves with our interconnection process and will be given an application upon completing this audit.
- Upon completion of the audit and acceptance of the Interconnection Application and Agreement, construction can begin on your project.
- After construction is completed and members are ready to interconnect just contact CECA and we will send representatives to install the proper metering equipment.
We applaud our members who are working to conserve energy and who support renewable energy. Feel free to contact us at any point during the interconnection process if you have questions. Our goal is to ensure our members have all the information they need to make an educated decision on whether solar is right for them.
Solar Frequently Asked Questions
CECA members should contact CECA very early in the “DG decision-making” process. Our representatives will be glad to take time to answer questions and provide both technical and procedural information regarding your potential DG installation. Before any DG system is installed there are agreements and safety concerns that must be addressed before interconnection can take place.
Yes! CECA provides high-quality, cost effective PV Solar to both CECA members and the public. CECA believes this is a service that is consistent with our mission and provides a long-term value to our cooperative and membership.
No. A standard non-battery backup system will shut down during an outage for safety reasons. There are battery storage systems that can provide some back up power under these circumstances, but they are only economical in a few instances.
A properly designed and sized system can be very economical depending on availability of tax subsidies and a member’s usage profile. Investing in a solar array is a long-term investment that takes 10 plus years to pay for itself. CECA can look at your usage and the potential for solar production at your location and give you an honest look at the financial benefits of a solar PV system.
CECA will reimburse members for energy “delivered to” CECA distribution system at the avoided cost of energy rate (ACER). The ACER is calculated based on the cooperative’s wholesale electric energy provider’s monthly invoice. The member’s compensation for the excess energy supplied to the cooperative during the monthly billing period shall accumulate as a monetary credit to be applied to future energy purchases by a member.
In very rare circumstances would there be a system that could over generate to the point of receiving a positive credit on your monthly bill. A system that could do this would be drastically over-sized and not be cost effective. If this were the case, CECA would roll the credit over to the following month and settle up quarterly with a check for the credited amount.
Considering Solar?
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) provides a Solar Consumer Guide with important information to help you make informed decisions about installing a home solar energy system.
Texas Senate Bill 1697 requires electric cooperatives to provide members with access to the Public Utility Commission's home solar consumer guide. This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions before purchasing or financing a rooftop solar system.
View the Texas Solar Consumer Guide:
https://www.puc.texas.gov/consumer-help/electricity/solar/
Your First Steps Toward Solar
Request a Solar Audit
Review the CECA Distributed Generation Guidelines
Read the Public Utility Commission of Texas Solar Consumer Guide
Review the Public Utility Commission of Texas's Solar Guide
Before committing to installing a solar energy system in your home, make sure you fully understand all obligations and requirements. Please click the button below to learn more.
