4 Steps to Get Your Own Solar Project Started

June 22, 2013

Steps 1 – 4, this makes it very easy to get organized for your own solar project. There are links in this story to find the information you need and we have interesting solar stories on our site with links after this story. Check back tomorrow, we have a similar story on small wind projects, both from CERTs.

Are you interested in doing your own solar project? Let the Clean Energy Project Builder and CERTs help you get started with 4 steps!

Step 1: Do your research! Knowing information about solar (what it is, how it works, how to get it) is a key component in your solar project’s success. Lucky for you, we have already done the hard part! Follow the link to see a list of helpful solar studie s.

Step 2: Site assessment. It is important to be familiar with both the purpose of your solar project, and site specific details before moving into the implementation and financing of a project. Here you will find some tools to help assess your site in order to understand its unique potential in conjunction with your energy needs and budget.

Step 3: Find companies. Once you have identified the primary objective of your solar project, and have an idea of the strengths and limitations of your site, it is important to find the right product and installer for your solar project. In this section you will find tips and useful links on how to refine your search on the Clean Energy Project Builder to find the right companies for you.

Step 4: Funding & financing. Like any investment, it’s important to understand the financial commitment of a small wind or solar project before you begin. This piece should be integrated into every step of the planning process. It is important to know things such as initial costs, ROI, as well as tax and utility incentives.

If you are a Twin Cities resident you can also check out our Simple Steps to Solar tailored to you! Or, if you are a farm or business owner check out this Simple Steps to Solar factsheet.

The Clean Energy Project Builder is an online directory aimed at helping citizens and businesses gain information and plan renewable energy projects, including solar projects. The website hosts information on Minnesota solar and wind companies and also allows non-registered companies apply to become a part of the directory.

Whether you are a homeowner, small business owner, or corporation manager, the Clean Energy Project Builder has resources for your renewable energy projects.

The Clean Energy Project Builder is a partnership between Southwest Initiative Foundation, Clean Energy Resource Teams, The Minnesota Department of Commerce Division of Energy Resources, Positively Minnesota, Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association, Minnesota Renewable Energy Society, Windustry, and The Minnesota Project.