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Title: Distributed Solar Incentive Programs: Recent Experience and Best Practices for Design and Implementation.
Author: Bird, L.; Reger, A.; Heeter, J.
Pages/Volumes: 62 pp.
Publication Year: 2012
Document Type: Research Report
NTIS/GPO Number: 1060505
Subject Code Description: Energy Analysis
Abstract: Based on lessons from recent program experience, this report explores best practices for designing and implementing incentives for small and mid-sized residential and commercial distributed solar energy projects. The findings of this paper are relevant to both new incentive programs as well as those undergoing modifications. The report covers factors to consider in setting and modifying incentive levels over time, differentiating incentives to encourage various market segments, administrative issues such as providing equitable access to incentives and customer protection. It also explores how incentive programs can be designed to respond to changing market conditions while attempting to provide a longer-term and stable environment for the solar industry. The findings are based on interviews with program administrators, regulators, and industry representatives as well as data from numerous incentive programs nationally, particularly the largest and longest-running programs. These best practices consider the perspectives of various stakeholders and the broad objectives of reducing solar costs, encouraging long-term market viability, minimizing ratepayer costs, and protecting consumers.
Accession Number: 56308
Library Notes: NPL-1212 REV
Report Numbers: TP-6A20-56308


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