In case you missed them, here are highlights from Energy Trust’s Solar program from this past year.

• Electronic signature and utility net metering paperwork available in PowerClerk—Solar trade ally contractors were be able to collect electronic signatures from their customers and complete Level I net metering applications for Pacific Power or Portland General Electric projects using PowerClerk. Stay tuned for new PowerClerk updates in 2017.
• Marketing training series for solar trade allies—The 6-month Build it Bright! solar marketing training series helped trade allies become more effective with marketing initiatives to help reduce the cost of customer acquisition and plan for future growth. Facilitated by Glenna Wiseman of Identity³, the training program is now available through HeatSpring. You can also access the recorded webinars and podcasts on the website.
• Solar Trade Ally Contractor Summit—In May 2016, solar business owners and nationally recognized experts in the solar industry discussed industry challenges and defined what success looks like for solar businesses in the competitive Oregon solar market. Save the date for the 2017 Solar Trade Ally Summit on May 9, which will align with the Oregon Solar Energy Conference on May 9-11, 2017.
• Solar Trade Ally star rating debut—In October 2016, a trade ally star rating summary report was emailed to each active trade ally contractor. Each quarter, active solar trade allies will receive a star rating from zero to three stars based on the past 12-months of program participation. Your star rating will also determine the level of business development funds, solar leads and other exclusive offerings available to you, such as pilot programs. In February 2017, the solar trade ally star ratings will be available on the Energy Trust website for customers to view.
• Remote shading analysis approved—Energy Trust now allows remote shading analysis to determine acceptable solar resource and qualify customers for solar incentives. The three remote shade analysis tools currently eligible are Bright Harvest, Aurora Solar and Helioscope. This change will be reflected in the next edition of the solar program guide.