In 2009, GRU launched a solar photovoltaic feed-in-tariff, the first in the United States. Modeled after successful programs in Europe, the GRU feed-in-tariff gives GRU customers the opportunity to invest in solar systems and sell electricity generated back to GRU.

PI client Green Energy Development was one of the first organizations to become involved in the feed-in-tariff.

GED’s concept was to provide GRU customers a way to install solar panels, earn revenue by selling back the electricity to GRU, and not have to make a large financial investment.

The concept proved popular with GRU customers who wanted to be part of the FiT but did not want to “get in the power business” by underwriting the costs of equipment, and also overseeing installation and maintenance for the next 20 years – particularly when the cost of a large systems can easily exceed  $10 million.

The GED process is simple. GED pays the GRU customer a fee to lease space on his/her rooftop. In return, GED purchases, installs, maintains and insures the solar installation and collects the FIT funds from GRU. With this process, GRU customers are able to earn a lease fee, help the community expand solar energy resources and not have to pay or finance the solar system costs.

PRO iNK’s role in the project was assisting GED with community education and outreach.

We’ve loved this project since it combines the conservation education work we have done for many years with GRU with the construction of solar systems by GED. Now local GRU customers can generate electricity and earn money from that effort. On top of that, this endeavor is the first of its kind in the United States. We are indeed lucky to live in a community with such a progressive and innovative utility. TVN