Up-Front Incentives for Geothermal Electricity Generators

New geothermal electricity generating systems installed within the APS service territory and tied to the APS grid can compete for a one-time incentive from APS of up to $0.50 per Watt, up to a maximum incentive of $75,000. Total up- front incentive payments are also limited to 50 percent of the system cost.

Funding for up-front incentives will be equally divided into the six bi-monthly allocation periods as noted below and will be reserved for projects on a competitive basis. Each project will be given a ranking score from the APS UFI Ranking Calculator which will be used to compare it to other projects submitted during the same period.

You may request up to the maximum incentive amount allowed, however, projects requesting less funds per kWh of production will generally receive more competitive scores. Applications are due the last day of the respective period:

1. January and February
2. March and April
3. May and June
4. July and August
5. September and October
6. November and December

At the end of each funding period, projects are ranked based on the score they receive from the APS UFI Ranking Calculator.  The most competitive projects are funded first. Because we typically receive requests for more funding than is available, it is likely that not all projects will be funded each period.

Before you apply:

• Review the decision process to see how APS determines if your request for funding is approved and when you can expect to receive a funding decision. View a working model of the UFI Ranking Calculator (MS Excel)
  

How to apply for an incentive:

1. Submit a completed and signed Reservation Application - Geothermal Electricity which includes:

   • Project size and amount of incentive per installed watt you are requesting
   • Your UFI Ranking score
   • Details about how we compensate you for the power you return to the grid
   • An itemized quote for all system and installation costs. The quote must include the manufacturer and model number of the solar panels and, if applicable, the inverter.
     
     
2. After the nomination period has ended, you will receive notification regarding the funding status of your project. If accepted, APS will send you a Credit Purchase Agreement (CPA) which you must review, sign and within 30 days.
   
   
3. Complete and submit an interconnection application and sample diagrams.
   Your installer can provide the necessary technical information.
   
   
4. Receive preliminary confirmation your system design meets all interconnection requirements.
   Final approval will be provided only after an on-site interconnection inspection. You will also receive an Interconnection Agreement which you must sign and return to APS before the commissioning of your system.
   
   
5. Obtain any local permits and proceed with installation of your system.
   After installation, obtain necessary municipal clearances ("green tag"). Typically your installer will assist you in obtaining permits and clearance. Contact APS when system has received final clearance.
   
   
6. Contact APS to schedule an interconnection inspection.
   After your system has passed the inspection, the APS inspector will activate your system. You will also be sent written confirmation that your system has passed inspection.
   
   Activating your system prior to passing the APS inspection is extremely hazardous and is in violation of the term and conditions of your interconnection agreement. Only an APS representative may activate your system.
   
   
7. Request your incentive payment.
   Your request should include 

   • An installation certification form signed by both your equipment dealer and installer
   • Receipt confirming the system purchase price, payment, and installation by an Arizona licensed contractor

Submit all program documents to:

APS Renewable Energy Incentive Program
P.O. Box 53933, MS 3161
Phoenix, AZ 85072-3933

Or by e-mail: commercial-renewables@aps.com

If you have any questions regarding the process, please call (602) 328-1924.

Forms & Resources
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