Your Roadmap to Energy Independence: Installing a DER System
A professional plan makes the journey to energy independence smooth and successful.
In our last post, we explored the powerful benefits of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)—like solar, batteries, and generators—for property owners in West Central Minnesota. You know the “why”; now it’s time for the “how.”
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step roadmap for installing a DER system. While it may seem complex, the right professional partner can make the journey to energy independence successful.
Step 1: The Critical Check-Up: Your Electrical Panel
Before any new energy equipment is installed, we have to look at the heart of your property’s electrical system: the main panel. Many older homes and farm buildings in our area have 60A or 100A panels. Adding a solar array or battery system often requires an upgrade to a modern 200A panel to ensure safety and compliance.
Key Warning Signs You May Need an Upgrade:
Flickering Lights
Lights that flicker or dim when a large appliance kicks on are a classic sign of an overloaded system.
Hazardous Panel Brand
Your panel is a known hazardous brand, such as Federal Pacific (FPE) or Zinsco, which have high failure rates.
Frequent Breaker Trips
You find yourself resetting breakers regularly, indicating your circuits can’t handle the electrical demand.
Future Upgrades Planned
You plan to add an EV charger, heat pump, hot tub, or other major electrical load in the near future.
A panel upgrade isn’t just a prerequisite; it’s a long-term investment in your property’s safety and “future-proofs” you for other modern needs.
Step 2: Unlocking Huge Savings: Your Guide to DER Incentives
The best part of any major project is saving money. When it comes to DERs, the incentives are significant and can be combined—or “stacked”—to dramatically reduce your upfront cost.
30% Residential Clean Energy Credit: A powerful tax credit for 30% of the total cost of a solar and/or battery system, including installation and necessary panel upgrades.
USDA REAP Program: Grants for farms and rural businesses that can cover up to 50% of a project’s cost, plus loan guarantees. This can be stacked with the tax credit!
Tax Exemptions: A 100% sales tax exemption on solar equipment and a property tax exemption so your taxes won’t increase due to your array.
Battery Storage Incentive: Upfront money back for adding batteries, which can be up to $7,000 for customers of local co-ops.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Grant: Income-qualified grants of $2,000 to $3,000 to help with that crucial first step.
Your specific electric provider—whether it’s Otter Tail Power, Xcel Energy, Runestone Electric, or another local co-op—often has its own set of rebates and programs. We help you identify every incentive you’re eligible for.
The Installation Journey & Protecting Your Investment
Once you’ve planned your system and identified incentives, it’s time to build. A professional ensures the process is seamless and your asset is protected.
1. Professional Site Assessment & Design
We evaluate your property, sun exposure, and energy needs to design the most effective and efficient DER system.
2. Permitting and Interconnection
We handle all necessary paperwork with local authorities and your utility company, ensuring full compliance with the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).
3. Installation and Inspection
Our licensed and insured electricians perform all work to the highest safety standards, followed by a mandatory inspection to verify code compliance.
4. Commissioning & Handover
After a successful final inspection, we “flip the switch” to activate your system and provide a complete walkthrough of its operation and monitoring.
5. Maintenance & Warranties
We ensure your professional installation protects your 10-25 year equipment warranties and provide our own 1-year workmanship guarantee for the installation itself.
Ready to take the next step? Call us at 320-321-9699 or click below for a comprehensive consultation. We’ll assess your property, explain your options, and design a custom DER system that’s perfect for your West Central Minnesota home, farm, or business.