APS Solar Programs

APS, or the Arizona Public Service, is the state’s largest electric utility. They provide service to more than 1.2 million customers in 11 of the 15 counties in Arizona. In an effort to help their customers save money and use cleaner energy, they offer APS Solar Programs for homeowners who wish to install solar panels on their homes.

See our page on APS for more information on this electric utility.

APS Solar Programs – Rate Plans

The APS Solar Program offers two solar rate plans to choose from:

1. Time-of-Use 4pm-7pm Weekdays (Previously named Saver Choice)
2. Time-of-Use 4pm-7pm Weekdays with Demand Charge (Previously named Saver Choice Max)

See our page on APS Solar Rate Plans for detailed information about each plan.

APS’ Net Billing Program

The APS Solar Program provides Net Billing for its solar customers. Meaning, when solar customers generate more electricity than they use, the excess is credited to their account. APS calls this the “Solar Export Credit”, and it reduces the amount of the monthly APS bill. This is also known as the Buy Back Rate. The credit can be used to offset energy charges when the system is generating less power. For example, solar panels produce less electricity when it is cloudy and there is no production at night.

Between the dates of September 1, 2022 through August 31, 2022, APS will pay their customers 8.465 ¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for exporting energy to the APS grid. APS typically lowers the amount of the Solar Export Credit every year on September 1st. So, the APS Solar Program provides an incentive for solar customers to increase their production. Also, customers in APS that go solar now instead of waiting will save more money. Because, they will lock in the Buy Back Rate before it drops on September 1st.

APS Solar Programs – Rebates and Incentives

There are no solar system incentives or rebates in the APS Solar Programs. However, the State of Arizona offers tax incentives for a solar energy system. The Arizona state solar tax credit is equal to 25% of system costs, or $1,000 – whichever is less. Further, solar systems will typically receive the full $1,000 in Arizona. Additionally, The Federal Government offers a 30% tax credit for homeowners that purchase a solar panel system. 

See our page on the AZ Solar Tax Credit for more information.

Process of Going Solar in APS

Once you have selected your solar installer, there’s nothing else for you to do after the choice. Your solar installer will handle most of the paperwork needed for APS. The interconnection process with your APS Solar Program may take one to four weeks, depending on the complexity of your system.

Step 1: Interconnection Application

Your installer will help you fill out the interconnection application for the APS Solar Programs. Also, you can download a copy of the APS interconnection agreement here. Additionally, APS requires the installer to provide you with a few other documents, including the interconnection application, a Site Plan, Electrical Three Line Diagram, and Authorization form. APS may require other documentation as well.

Step 2: Interconnection Approval

After your interconnection agreement and accompanying documentation have been submitted, APS will request revisions to your application or approve it. Typically, you will receive the go-ahead from APS when submitting your first request to install. However, this process may take longer with the implementation of a battery storage system with your solar panels. Because, the APS Solar Programs require detailed specifications for solar battery storage systems. This may require you to revise your original plan back and forth between them and your installer.

Step 3: Final Documents

Your installer will provide APS with additional documents once your system is installed, which verify your system has been completely installed up to code.

Step 4: APS Inspection

After receiving the final documentation, APS will schedule an inspection to make sure your solar system makes the appropriate use of the approved plans. There, the department will install an electric meter that enables participation in the net billing program of the APS Solar Programs. Further, your APS coordinator will notify your installer of any necessary fixes to your electrical system design. Lastly, APS will arrange another quality check when your coordinator has informed them that the current issues have been resolved.

Step 5: Permission to Operate (PTO)

Since your system has passed the APS inspection and the meter has been installed, your system is officially turned on! You are now enrolled in the APS Solar Program. APS will leave a door hanger at your residence and send you an email acknowledging that you’ve been given permission to operate.