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June 25, 2019

Considering solar? UI launches online map to help customers

PHOTO | Contributed Rooftop solar panels.
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

Installing a solar array on your property can mean lower electricity bills — but not every neighborhood has proper electrical infrastructure to support a solar installation.

Because of increased customer interest in renewable solar energy, the United Illuminating Co. has launched a new, interactive map on its website. Customers can enter their address and find out if installing a solar energy system is feasible in their neighborhood.

A subsidiary of the Orange-based Avangrid Inc., UI serves roughly 335,000 customers in the greater New Haven and Bridgeport areas.

Tony Marone, president and CEO of Avangrid Networks, said customers are seeing more rooftop solar systems as they travel their neighborhoods.

“Naturally they may be wondering if this is a good option for them,” Marone said in an announcement. “We want to make it easy for them as they get started.”

Hot, sunny and long summer days typically prompt more interest in solar energy from customers, according to Juanita Washington, an Avangrid spokesperson.

Currently, the interactive map service is available for residential customers, but not for commercial ones, she said.

To see if your area’s electric system can accommodate a solar installation, enter your address at UI’s Interconnection Feasibility Map, which is also available by visiting uinet.com and then clicking “Smart Energy” and “Distributed Generation.”

If the website shows a green dot for your address, then solar is likely a good fit for your location, according to UI. A blue or orange dot indicates more information is needed to make sure installing a solar system won’t impact electric service in the neighborhood.

Customers can arrange for a more detailed analysis by completing the online Hosting Capacity Eligibility Form at uinet.com.

The new online map does not indicate whether a particular property receives enough sunlight to warrant installing a solar system. The company urges property owners to consult with solar contractors for an analysis.

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com

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