Going for Solar - New Electric Meter (Step 7)

One of the steps to having a grid-tied solar installation is that you need to have an electric meter that can go both ways.  We are fortunate that we live in Massachusetts which has a long history of net-metering and our electric company, National Grid, quickly approved our application and installed our meter so effortlessly that it was almost shocking.

Our new bi-directional electric meter

One morning, shortly after our Utility Interconnection Application was approved, we had a knock on the door and the utility company was here to change the meter.  There was a brief 5 second power outage as they removed the old single directional meter and replaced it with a new bi-directional meter.  They let us know they were done and that was that.

If only more steps were this easy, everyone would have solar.

Happy Greening!
Jon & Alicia

Going for Solar Series

Check out the other steps in Green Lifestyle Consulting's Going for Solar Series including photos throughout the construction.

Going for Solar - Paperwork (Step 6)

As with any big purchase in life, there is bound to be a few papers to sign. Solar projects are no exception. While this is not a fun part of the process, it is important. A good solar contractor like SunBug Solar, who we used, will make this process easy and do most of the paperwork for you.

Some of the documents you will probably have to fill out and sign are:

• Contract with the Installer (and a big check)
• Rebate Application(s)
• Utility Interconnect Application
• Building Permit Applications (hopefully your contractor takes care of these for you)

Be sure you read the details carefully before signing any documents.  Read on for more details of each piece of the paperwork puzzle.

Read more »

Join the Global Work Party this Sunday 10/10/10

 is organizing a Global Work Party to raise awareness and make a call for action across the world to address climate change.

Getting involved is easy.  Over 6,300 events in 187 countries are already planned.  To find a fun event near you, check out the Map of Action.  Feel like doing more and organizing your own event or already have something planned, you can register your event at 350.org.

We will be helping out at the HEET style Barnraising ATO at Tufts event.  We have also heard about a fun and creative series of events happening in Winchester starting on 10/10/10 and going all week organized by Sustainable Winchester.

Answer the call to address climate change in your area and join in the Global Work Party on 10/10/10!

View Actions at 350.org