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Questions & Answers

What documents or information are required to start?

To begin the process, organizations will need to provide a minimum of the address of the proposed project.

Other documentation that will be needed during the scoping of the project:
Utility bills or historical energy usage data.
Contact information for facilities or property managers.
Go to www.capsolar.org/reg to register your buildings.

Who can participate in the eCAP program?

Any 501c3 organization can participate in the program.
If you lease your building and have an amenable landlord, CAP Solar can present a proposal to both your agency and the landlord.

How might changes under the new administration affect funding or tax credits for these projects?

While federal policies may evolve, CAP Solar closely monitors legislative changes to ensure projects leverage available incentives, such as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and other renewable energy benefits. By remaining adaptable, we continue to secure cost-effective funding for all eCAP initiatives.

What is the typical timeline for an eCAP project?

From initial assessment to system activation, the timeline generally ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on project complexity, permitting requirements, and system size.

Can you build Community Solar projects?

Yes. If an agency owns or has access to a parcel of land, we can build a community solar project.
Since our mission is to lower costs as much as possible, we are in an ideal position to assist CAA’s low-income clients to realize meaningful savings.

Can eCAP projects include battery storage for added resilience?

Yes. Battery storage can be included in projects to provide backup power during outages and reduce peak demand charges. This added feature enhances energy resilience for organizations, especially those operating critical facilities.
The projects are scalable. It is possible to start with solar and add a battery later.

What are the costs involved in an eCAP project?

eCAP projects are designed to eliminate upfront costs for participating organizations. CAP Solar assumes all financial responsibilities for project development, including engineering, installation, and financing. Organizations only pay for the energy generated, typically through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or lease arrangement, which offers predictable costs and long-term savings.

What kind of savings can organizations expect?

Organizations can expect significant energy cost savings, depending on the scale of the project and energy usage. The predictable pricing from a PPA or lease ensures reduced exposure to rising energy costs. Savings are reinvested into community services, amplifying the impact of renewable energy adoption.

What happens if the system produces less energy than expected?

CAP Solar guarantees system performance through rigorous design and monitoring. If production falls short of expectations, the financial terms of the agreement protect the organization, ensuring you only pay for the energy actually produced.

How does the program benefit the community?

eCAP projects lower energy costs for community action agencies (CAAs), allowing them to redirect savings toward vital programs such as housing, education, and workforce development. Additionally, renewable energy installations align with environmental goals, fostering sustainability and resilience within the community.

Are there any risks involved in participating?

eCAP minimizes risk for organizations by managing all aspects of project development, financing, and maintenance. CAP Solar assumes responsibility for the system, ensuring organizations face no upfront costs or unexpected financial burdens.

Can eCAP projects be scaled or expanded in the future?

Yes. eCAP projects are designed to be flexible and scalable. As energy needs grow or new funding opportunities arise, systems can be expanded or upgraded to include additional solar capacity, battery storage, or other renewable energy technologies.

How does eCAP handle ongoing system maintenance?

CAP Solar provides comprehensive maintenance and monitoring for the life of the system. Organizations can rely on consistent system performance without incurring additional costs or logistical challenges.

What if our organization does not own the building?

eCAP works with property owners to facilitate agreements that allow solar installations on leased buildings. CAP Solar negotiates terms to ensure the organization and landlord both benefit from the project.

How do eCAP projects align with our organizational mission?

eCAP helps organizations reduce operating costs, lower carbon footprints, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. This directly supports CAAs goals of advancing equity, improving quality of life, and addressing environmental challenges.

Cap Solar LLC © 2024 | Committed to Affordable Green Energy for All

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