Answer
Dec 08, 2023 - 11:36 AM
State law requires that the connection of any generation source to the grid must be approved by the local distribution company. Going through the Eversource interconnection process requires working with an electrician and using equipment that meets Eversource's standards. The key safety concern here is ensuring no power is sent from the solar panel to the grid when the grid is out, so as to not electrocute someone repairing a downed power line. So, a plug-n-play set up is best suited for an off-grid system.
If you were to set up a small off-grid system (800W would not power a whole house, but perhaps for bringing a bit of electricity to a garage or such), ensure the system has a safety listing (UL, ETL, or CE).
Other options to increase renewable energy generation in the region are via our community aggregation program, Newton Power Choice. Starting January 1, 2024, the default rate for Newton Power Choice will be 95% local renewable energy, with the option to opt up to 100%. Another option is to sign up for a community solar project, a program by which you sign up for credit for a portion of panels and/or electricity produced at a solar farm elsewhere in Massachusetts. The net metering credits from this system are then applied to your electric bill.
If you were to set up a small off-grid system (800W would not power a whole house, but perhaps for bringing a bit of electricity to a garage or such), ensure the system has a safety listing (UL, ETL, or CE).
Other options to increase renewable energy generation in the region are via our community aggregation program, Newton Power Choice. Starting January 1, 2024, the default rate for Newton Power Choice will be 95% local renewable energy, with the option to opt up to 100%. Another option is to sign up for a community solar project, a program by which you sign up for credit for a portion of panels and/or electricity produced at a solar farm elsewhere in Massachusetts. The net metering credits from this system are then applied to your electric bill.
