The Solar Programs Options Tool (SPOT)

Whether driven by regulations, customer preferences, or corporate values, solar electricity is becoming an increasingly important renewable resource for electric utilities. The Solar Programs Options Tool (SPOT) is an online evaluation tool that recommends and prioritizes solar electricity options for electric utilities, including:
  • Residential & Commercial Incentives
  • Solar Generating Plants
  • Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
  • Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)
  • Green Power Pricing Programs
  • Education, Demonstration, and Research
SPOT users provide basic information about their utility and then identify and rank their solar goals and objectives. For example, utilities in need of additional solar capacity or energy have several options, each with different characteristics: utility-ownership, customer rebates, third-party PPAs, performance incentives, or solar energy credits. Other users may want to start with a demonstration project, education program, or green pricing program.
 
SPOT also includes a peer matching service to pair users with other utilities that have experience in a particular area or program. Over time, case studies of the various options will also be developed for users. 		 
Sample Screenshot
 
SPOT was designed by solar industry experts and electric utility representatives to help their utility peers develop new solar energy programs or enhance existing solar portfolios. Solar Electric Power Association members and partners can access SPOT’s full capabilities, while visitors have limited access to a demonstration version.