Renewable Energy
BEMC has been working with renewable energy for several years, learning how best to integrate solar and other renewable
energy sources into our power mix. It’s been quite a journey and there are exciting times ahead as we move to a cleaner,
greener world. As always, you can count on BEMC to provide solid information about your energy options.
Through our affiliation with GreenCo Solutions, a statewide organization of co-ops, we access energy from large-scale
renewable projects and energy efficiency programs to help us meet the NC renewable energy mandates. This helps
balance our mix of generation sources. (Please visit the What's New in Energy page to see the latest news.)
We offer resources to help you evaluate and decide what renewable or energy efficiency projects might work best for you
and your family. Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, water/hydro, biomass and geothermal, with solar
the most popular for residential installations in our area. Renewable systems require considerable investment, and only
you can decide if the benefits are right for you.
First and foremost, BEMC emphasizes safety for you and for our employees, maintaining the reliability of the power
grid and operating with fairness to all members. For solar in our area, there are two options, traditional rooftop and
community solar. Each has its benefits: Click the links to learn more about each type:
BEMC COMMUNITY SOLAR |
INDIVIDUAL ROOFTOP SOLAR |
|---|---|
You get the benefit of clean energy generation |
You get the benefit of clean energy generation |
You own a share of the system's energy output |
You own the system |
Investment on a per panel basis - you decide
|
Investment can be considerable
|
Nothing installed on your property, so it works for
|
Must have a suitable location |
Buyer signs basic contract for purchase of the
|
Requires compliance with utility's interconnection
|
No zoning or homeowners association issues |
Possible zoning issues or
|
Maintenance handled by the co-op/builder |
Maintenance is homeowner's responsibility |
Co-op monitors operation to maximize production |
Maximizing production is homeowner's responsibility |
Credit for your share of output credited on
|
Net metering credit on monthly electric bill |
Financing available for 12-24 months |
Financing through loans or self-finance |
Purchase agreement for project for a fixed period
|
Expected system life 25-30 years |
Payback period approximately 18 years
|
Payback period varies with investment required,
|
No tax credits for the buyer |
You receive any federal or state tax credits
|
If you move within the co-op service area,
|
Ownership may be transferred upon sale of home |
If you leave the co-op service area, ownership interest
|
May add to your home's value for the right buyer |
RENEWABLE ENERGY - GENERAL INFO:
- U.S. Dept of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
- The NC Clean Energy Technology Center:
a clearinghouse for solar and other renewable energy programs, information, research, technical assistance and training, located at
NC State University.
- Cape Fear Chapter of the US Green Building Council: Seeks to bring together professionals
in our area in the building industry, including architects, designers, contractors, builders, realtors, and developers, and concerned members of the general public.
