Getting Started The Alternative Energy Company designs, sells, installs and monitors alternative energy systems. For grid tied application, we manage the Net Metering Process. We also provide assistance with tax credits and utility rebates for all of our systems.
An Alternative House Be the first in your neighborhood to go green!
Our Six Step Process:
  1. Free Consultation: Every installation is unique; we want to hear your thoughts on what you prompted you to contact us. We also want to know a bit about both your current energy usage and your energy saving goals. After we get a fairly clear picture of your needs and current situation, we will discuss a basic system with you, along with an initial estimate for that system and any rebates and tax credits which may apply. If you decide you want to go forward with a site assessment then we will schedule a site visit.
  2. Site Assessment: We want to visit your proposed installation site to fine-tune our data. In each visit we take a look at your energy usage and help to identify conservation opportunities for you. Energy conservation is the first and best step towards reducing the overall cost of your energy usage and determining the scope and corresponding cost of an alternative energy system.

    For solar installations, we need to assess shading, mounting locations, exposure to the southern sky, etc. For roof mounted installation, we assess the integrity of your roofing and rafters. For ground mounted installations, we assess the distance from the installation location to your house or business.

    Micro-hydro assessment includes an examination of your water course.

    The cost for this visit is $250. This is credited back to you if you order a system greater than 1.5kW.
  3. Proposal: Based on information received during our initial consultation and site assessment, we will put together a detailed written proposal which includes the following recommendations:
    • System
    • Location
    • Services (including monitoring)
    • Pricing for materials, permitting, installation, and tax. This also includes terms, estimated tax credits, utility rebates, and sub-contractor costs.
    • Energy Efficiency Recommendations
    The return of a signed proposal along with your down payment allows us to schedule a tentative installation date with you. Please note, alternative installations are dependent on the weather cooperating!
  4. Design: We will develop a customized preliminary design of your system. This will include the layout of the system and a wiring diagram. Design information is required for the Net Metering Application.
  5. Installation: We will professionally install your system based on our experience and high standards. Installation time varies between 3-5 days for a basic 3kW residential installation to several weeks for a large commercial installation. We will oversee all permitting, inspections and coordination with the local utility which may be required. Depending on your location, we may include a local contractor to help us with our work.
  6. System Monitoring: As an option, we will install an internet based monitoring system to ensure that everything running smoothly. You will have full online access to your system’s performance to share with your family and friends.