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1. What do I do to start my process to go solar with the City of Safford?

You must first fill out an application. You can find this on our website at  http://www.cityofsafford.us  under departments you will then click on utilities and electricity. There you will find our net metering policy and the application and our current city policy. Once you submit your application the city inspector will get in contact with your solar agent. Once the approval process is complete Business services will be notified to create your net metering utility account.

2. How long is the application process?

The application process typically can take 1-2 days, once the City of Safford receives submittals for interconnection agreement and permit application.

 

3. Do you reimburse for solar?

Our current policy does not reimburse a dollar amount for solar. If our customers generate excess KWH we carry over the “credit” to the next billing cycle.

 

4. How does the billing work?

You will receive two (2) bills from the City of Safford once you go to solar. You will receive one bill that shows all your other services charges and a net metering bill.  The reason for this is we must split out to keep track of your electric usage and credit. Our current billing system does not allow for it to distinguish that you can only receive a credit on your electric and not all your services.

5. What is net metering?

Net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. For example, if a residential customer has a PV system on the home’s rooftop, it may generate more electricity than the home uses during daylight hours. If the home is net-metered, the electricity meter will run backwards to provide a credit against what electricity is consumed at night or other periods where the home’s electricity use exceeds the system’s output. Customers are only billed for their “net” energy use.

6. Does the City still charge a surcharge?

 Yes, currently our Electric monthly charge is $9.00 per month. The City of Safford needs to charge this rate since you are still hooked up to our system and drawing from our grid when the sun is not out.

 

7. If I have questions about solar power, who do I contact?

City of Safford Electric Department

Dan Braatz – Electric Division Manager

P.O. Box 272

405 W Discovery Park Blvd.

Safford, Az. 85548

(928) 432-4221