Solar Contractor Resources

Contractors must upload the following documentation in the PowerClerk Interconnection Application:

• Electrical system design diagram
• Site diagram showing all equipment locations
• Equipment Spec sheets
• Shading Report (if shaded between 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.)
• Copy of contract/warranty
• Customer signed Solar Fact Sheet
  • One signature with initial proposal
  • One signature with final accepted proposal
• SEIA Solar Purchase or Lease Disclosure

PowerClerk Compatibility:

• Supports different signature platforms.

Key Documents and Links:

• Residential PV Setback Standards
• Building Services Solar Permit Application
• Meter/Service Entrance disconnect scheduling: electricservices@fortcollins.gov

General Limits:

The following generation system sizing constraints apply to residential electric accounts, including any existing generation equipment or participation in Community Solar:

• For customer-owned projects, the maximum size is the larger of: 12 kW-DC or 200% of average annual use.
• For leased systems, the maximum size is the larger of: 7.2 kW or 120% of average annual use.

Email solar@fortcollins.gov if requesting to exceed these limits with justification (e.g. EV or electrification)

Sizing Calculations (for solar additions based on annual consumption):

• Solar Self-Consumption = Total Production – Energy Returned to Grid
• Total Energy Consumption = Solar Self-Consumption + Grid Use
• Max Limit = 12 kW total or producing 200% × Average Total Energy Consumption
• Addition Limit = Max Limit – Existing PV System

Use 1–2 years of customer data. For homes without history, estimate 3 kWh/sq ft./year (pre-2020 with gas heat).

Tools:

• MyData Platform for electric usage access
• Assumptions for modeling future electric rates:
  • Forecasted increases: ~5%/yr through 2030
  • Credit for excess solar: will stay flat through 2030

Responsibilities:

• Submit Distributed Energy application and supporting documents to Utilities on customer's behalf
• Protect the confidentiality of customer information
• Understand Residential Net Metering policies and Interconnection Standards
• Stay current on interconnection and permit processes

If you do not have the Residential Net Metering Policy or other agreements needed, please email us at solar@fortcollins.gov for them to be emailed to you.

Available Incentives:

• Solar and Battery Storage
• Epic Homes

Rebate Requirements:

• Residential Fort Collins Utilities electric customer
• Project sold and installed by Participating Contractor
• ≥500W system, UL-listed, on CEC approved equipment list
• Must meet Interconnection Standards
• Shading analysis (9am–3pm) and vegetation management
• Reduced rebate if output <90% optimal
• Complete installation within 6 months of project approval

Resources for Recycling Solar Panels:

• Solar Energy Industries Association
• Cleanlites Recycling
• We Recycle Solar

Steps:

1. Start Interconnection Application via PowerClerk.
   • (Do not begin installation before approval.)
2. Get a Building Permit issued from Building Services.
3. Install the System (within 6 months of permit approval).
4. Schedule Final Inspection with Building Services.
5. Notify Utilities through PowerClerk after passing inspection.
6. Utilities Testing – to ensure proper system operation.
7. Receive Incentive– Incentives for eligible projects are typically mailed within 4 weeks after final test.
   • Note: Rebate goes to account holder or property owner only.

Track Interconnection Progress: PowerClerk

Track Permit Progress: Citizen Access Portal

Training:

• Presentation Slides(DOC, 3MB)
• Recorded Training Video

Epic Homes Loan — Affordable Financing for Energy Upgrades

Upgrade your home with no money down! The Epic Homes Loan lets Fort Collins utility customers borrow up to $50,000 for energy efficiency improvements or solar and battery projects. You’ll enjoy:

• Competitive interest rates (3‑ to 15‑year terms)
• Simple application and approval process
• Repayment conveniently added to your monthly utility bill

Eligible upgrades include insulation, air sealing, efficient HVAC systems, windows, and solar installations (with qualifying rebates). The program is open to single‑family homes, rentals and certain attached units in Fort Collins.

Ready to get started?

Sign up for an Epic Homes assessment or apply for a loan today.

Sign up for an Epic Homes Assessment

Apply for Epic Homes Loan

All solar and battery systems must meet Fort Collins Utilities Interconnection Standards. Refer to Building Services Codes for adopted codes and amendments. 

If you need access to standards documents or applications, email us at solar@fortcollins.gov

AC Disconnect Switch Requirements:

• Manual, lockable, external, accesible, knife blade type with a visible break
• Within 10 feet of meter or with visible, weather-proof placard at the meter

Energy Storage Disconnects:

• Must be visible, lockable, and located externally near main AC system disconnect

Placard Requirements:

• Permanent, weather-proof, engraved, legible, and code-compliant (NEC 110, 480, 690, 705, 706)

For non-standard designs, contact: solar@fortcollins.gov.

Building Services has approved these smart load management electric panels for installation in Fort Collins:

• SPAN Panel
• Leviton Load Center
• Schneider Electric Pulse
• Lumin Smart Panel
• Savant Power Module
• Eaton Energy Management System

Contractors must provide product listing from a recognized agency.

Approved for Ring-Type Cans:

• ConnectDER (5.1)
• Enphase IQ Meter Collar
• Tesla Backup Switch

No meter collars are approved for installation on ringless meter cans.

Important Note:

Some devices disconnect battery from loads when the AC disconnect is used. Educate customers and use signed authorization language for protection.

Follow International Residential Code Section R328 for:

• Spacing and location
• Fire detection
• Ventilation
• UL certifications (9540, 1741)
• Vehicle impact protection

Guidance on Impact Zones:

• Wall in front of parking = impact zone → needs barrier
• Side walls usually do not
• Manufacturer requirements may exceed code