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Solar Energy Plan: Eligible Sites

Freedom within the Framework: Installers may sell and install at their discretion, within the framework of our guidelines.

A) Overview & Installer Responsibility

Policy: Palmetto LightReach follows a "Freedom within the Framework" approach. Installers may sell and install at their discretion, within the framework of our help.palmetto.finance guidelines. This means that we do not conduct pre-installation site reviews; project review occurs only at the installation milestone. If the project has questionable eligibility, we recommend partners do not proceed.

Procedure: We review eligible residential homes through the lens of five key construction parameters. Installers are responsible for working within these eligibility parameters, as LightReach does not police physical sites at point of sale. This means that partners are responsible for ensuring all of our site eligibility guidelines are met, as NTP Milestone does not confirm site eligibility.

  1. Roofing - Type & Quality/Lifespan

  2. Home type - Home type/style & mounting structure

  3. Structural - The site will support the intended equipment

  4. Electrical - Qualifying adders, replacement conditions, prohibited panels

  5. Multiple System Parameters - Existing Solar, Multiple Systems

Key Takeaway: Palmetto LightReach follows a "Freedom within the Framework" approach. This means that Installers are responsible adhering to our knowledge base guidelines.

B) Roofing

Click for Details on Check 1 of 5: Roofing

View our Supplemental Guide - Roof Quality for additional information pertaining to approved roof type, common rejections, and quality violations.

Supplemental Guide - Roof Quality

Roofing Type/Style

Below are eligible roof types. If a type is not approved on this list, it is not eligible. This means that common disqualified roof types, such as wood shake, tin metal, clay, etc are not eligible due to the long term maintenance and leakage risk to the customer.

Roof Type/Style

Approved Material

Steep Slope Roofs

  • Asphalt / Comp Shingle

  • Metal Roofs (Corrugated or Standing Seam)

    • Appropriate mounting hardware required

  • Concrete / Cement Tile

  • Clay Tile Comp-out/Composition Backfill

    • "Comp-out" refers to the technique of removing the tiles, laying down shingles underneath, installing the solar on the roof, then placing the tile back on the roof around the array. For the avoidance of doubt, simply installing on clay title is not permitted.

Click for visual samples

Low Slope Roofs

  • EPDM (rubber roofing)

  • Rolled Asphalt Roofing and Modified Bitumen (aka ModBit)

    • Fully adhered (peel & stick or torch down)

    • Mechanically attached (nailed)

  • Coating on approved roof types

    • Acrylic ONLY, no Silicone.

Roof Quality

Regardless of roof type, each roof must be in viable shape for solar install. It is the responsibility of the Certified Installer to ensure diligence on roof quality.

Golden Guidelines:

  • Roof should have at minimum ten (10) years remaining lifespan, and pass the below quality checks.

  • Any issues within the Proximity of the Array that may lead to a leak or performance issue should be corrected before install submission

When reviewing M1s, LightReach will err on the side of flexibility when reasonably possible. Certified Installers should err on the side of caution when dealing with questionable roofs.

Quality Items

To Check For

Details

General Standards

  • Material is clear of algae and moss, metal is not rusted or deteriorated, tiles aren't broken or excessively damaged.

  • Roof is clear of obvious signs of heavy age or wear and tear

  • Incorrectly installed roofing/roof type

Click for visual samples

Roofing

Code Violations

The roof must be installed according manufacturer guidelines based on product type

Example Violations Include:

  • Composite shingles installed below 2/12

  • Mod bit installed above 3/12 or below .25/12

  • Tile Roofs below 3/12

  • Architectural shingles used as ridge gaps

Click for visual samples

Age Related Degradation

  • Asphalt materials do not show signs of missing granules, exposed fibers, cracks, or corrosion

  • Materials are free from surface bubbling, delamination, or tearing

  • There are no exposed fasteners showing signs of degradation

Click for visual samples

Waterproofing Issues

  • No missing materials, whether from damage, bad installation, or issues with previous PV systems

  • Substandard repairs, incompatible materials, poor sealant application, etc.

Decking or Substrate Issues

  • Decking material should not be compromised, missing, or otherwise damaged. There should be no signs of current water penetration or pooling.

  • Flat roof material does not show heavy water retention or pooling, aged patches or obstruction flashing, and surface is not wavy or showing signs of bubbling.

  • Underlayment paper for tile roofs should not be brittle, torn, or missing.

  • Roofing material should be installed directly to decking, and not installed over another roof type. Shingles should be no more than 2 layers.

Click for visual samples

C) Home Type

Click for Details on Check 2 of 5: Eligible Home Types

Eligible Home Types

Below are eligible home types (often synonymous with eligible mounting structures). This list is not exhaustive--If a structure is not present on this list, it is not eligible. All structures must be residential.

Installers are responsible for working within these eligibility parameters, as LightReach does not police physical sites at point of sale. This means that partners are responsible for ensuring all of our site eligibility guidelines are met, as NTP Milestone does not confirm site eligibility.

Type

Details

Residential, Single Family Homes

Approved

  • Normal, traditional detached houses

  • Residential meter, residential zoned, residential use

  • Installers should proceed with caution when installing outside of this core home type.

Detached Garage / Guest Suite*

Approved when Conditions are Met

  • Generally approved, assuming full code compliance, structural stability, etc.

  • These are typically robust, traditional structures --distinct from other irregular structures such as carports, pergolas, etc, which are not approved.

Duplexes / Triplexes (Sometimes referred to as Multi-Family)*

Approved when Conditions are Met

  • IE Traditional resi. detached houses which may be split into multiple units, for example an upstairs & downstairs unit.

  • The customer must own the entire property.

  • Sites that fall outside of this description, including but not limited to townhomes, condos, or other irregular structures, are not eligible.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Approved when Conditions are Met

  • The system must be installed at the contracted property address, ensuring the installation site, utility meter number, and address all match the information provided on the utility bill and contract.

Shared Structures (Townhomes, Condos, or Apartments)

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • Any instance where the Contract Holder does not own the entirety of the Structure AND Property WILL NOT BE FUNDED regardless of the external structure appearance.

Planned Urban Development (PUD)

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • PUDs usually have additional rules beyond city or county zoning. These are often enforced by an HOA or another governing association. Common enforcement standards can include

    • Standards on roofing materials or maintenance

    • Limitations on exterior modifications

    • Requirements on equipment placement

Commercial/Non-Residential Buildings

Not Approved. Please do not install.

Carports/Pergolas

Not Approved. Please do not install.

Home Additions

Not Approved. Please do not install.

Ground Mounts

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • Disqualified as of 1/1/26 due to FEOC requirements

Overhang Porches

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • These are typically lite structures with minimal/nominal construction supports

Manufactured / Mobile / Modular

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • This would disqualify the entire project

  • Will not be funded, regardless of PV install details

All other unique or irregular home types/structures

Not Approved. Please do not install.

  • Bottom Line: If not expressly approved on this article, do not install. No exceptions will be granted.

Roof Tilt and Pitch Requirements

Understanding the roof tilt and pitch guidelines is crucial for ensuring compliance with LightReach installation standards. Certified installers should ensure that roof conditions meet the specified criteria for successful project approval.

Mounting Structure

Requirement

Array Measurements

  • Requirement:

    • The tilt angle and azimuth of arrays at install should be within ±5 degrees of the measurements included on the plan set & proposal design.

  • Why:

    • To ensure production & plan set accuracy with respect to installation on the project site.

Array Tilt Angle

  • Requirement:

    • Array Tilt Angle Minimum: of 5 degrees (absolute).

    • Array Tilt Angle Maximum: up to 45 degrees, with a flexibility margin of ±5 degrees

  • Why:

    • To attain optimal drainage and prevention of water pooling/snow accumulation on the arrays that would negatively impact production.

Roof Pitch Angle

  • Requirement:

    • Upper limit of 45 degrees

    • Lower limits are based on Roof Material requirements as listed by the manufacture.

    • See "Roof Material Code Violation" section above.

  • Why:

    • To ensure the performance of roof material and solar equipment.

Ground Mount

[Ended 1/1/26]

  • [As of 1/1/26, Ground Mounts are no longer eligible due to FEOC requirements.]

Reverse Tilt Arrays

Not Approved on roof pitches above 5 degrees.

D) Structural

Click for Details on Check 3 of 5: Structural & Site

Structural Items

to Check

Details

General Requirements

  • Roof framing should be adequate material to support solar load and uplift in regional zones

  • No structural damage: Rafters, trusses, or beams should not be severely cracked or damaged

  • No structural concerns: Ridge sagging, excessive bowing or poorly supported areas

  • No pest/element damage: Framing material should not show insect, thermal, or water damage

  • Situated on a permanent foundation: Poured slab, mortared perimeter or concrete piers.

  • Original to the Home: Presenting a similar style of construction and integration into the main portion of the home.

Extra Requirements for Accessory Structures

For Installations not located on the main home (including garages, detached structures, etc), additional requirements include:

  • Interior photos capturing the construction (rafters, purlins, etc), dimensions, and spacing. Information must line up with PE letter (see next).

  • Photos of the vertical supports indicating the construction upon a permanent foundation.

  • Professional engineering letter (aka PE letter) reasonably affirming proper installation of solar components to the supporting structure and that the structure can support the weight of PV.

  • Palmetto may, at our discretion, request additional information prior to approval as necessary.

Structural Material:

  • Roof framing should be adequate material to support solar load and uplift in regional zones

  • No structural damage: Rafters, trusses, or beams should not be severely cracked or damaged

  • No ridge sagging

  • No pest/element damage: Framing material should not show insect, thermal, or water damage

Click for visual samples

E) Electrical

Click for Details on Check 4 of 5: Electrical Conditions

All electrical adders must be directly related to facilitating the installation of PV or PV + Battery installation.

Including an electrical adder in the Quote tool will be a separate option from Batteries. When including an electrical adder to your project, you'll want to make sure to select the correct option in the Adders section:

Qualified Adder

Details

Full Service Upgrade

  • Varies widely based on conditions, type of service, AHJ & Utility

  • Conditions: Services that do not meet current code, AHJ or Utility requirements, wire sizing is not supportive of system back feed. A full service upgrade may be precipitated by a meter relocation in order to adhere to current code standards.

  • Applies to:

    • PV Systems

    • PV Systems + Battery (partial or full home back up & arbitrage)

Main Service Panel Upgrade

  • Varies widely based on conditions, type of service, AHJ & Utility

  • Conditions: MSP that do not meet current code, AHJ or Utility requirements, of a disqualified class, shows signs of failure or corrosion or is not sized to support the proposed back feed.

  • Applies to:

    • PV Systems

    • PV Systems + Battery (partial or full home back up & arbitrage)

Single/Two/Three/Four Gang Meter Upgrade

  • Largely dependent on # of meters

  • Varies widely based on conditions, type of service, AHJ & Utility

  • Conditions: Services that do not meet current code, AHJ or Utility requirements, shows signs of failure or corrosion or is not sized to support the proposed back feed.

  • Applies to:

    • PV Systems

    • PV Systems + Battery (partial or full home back up & arbitrage)

Sub Panel Insert

  • Takes the form of back up or critical loads panels

  • Inserting sub panel to avoid an MPU

  • Conditions: Existing Main panel is not suitable sized for back feed but the service is rated for the proposed back feed.

  • Applies to:

    • PV Systems

    • PV Systems + Battery (partial or full home back up & arbitrage)​

Meter Adapters*

  • *Does not apply to Tesla backup switch

  • Conditions: Can be used to avoid an MPU but subject to AHJ & Utility restrictions and approved components

  • Applies to:

    • PV Systems

    • PV Systems + Battery (partial or full home back up & arbitrage)

Replacement Conditions

Regardless of the specific brand of panel, overall conditions should also be assessed, reviewing for the following. If any one of these conditions are met, replacement is required:

  • Thermal damage

  • Double lugged circuits or feeders

  • Knob and tube wiring

  • Rusted or corroded equipment

  • Existing code violations, clearance issues, or overall safety concerns.

Prohibited Panels

When reviewing the electrical conditions of a project, the system should be designed to avoid or replace certain panel and breaker manufacturers to ensure code compliance. Certain panel manufacturers/setups, detailed below, are full-stop-prohibited for all LightReach accounts. This means that interconnection (upstream or downstream) of any DQ panel types is prohibited.

Elec Panel/Type

Status

Additional Considerations

Fuse Box

DQ type - Replace
(No interconnection upstream or downstream of this panel)

Not as reliable as circuit breakers, constant maintenance, need modification with bigger fuses due to higher demands for houses nowadays. The circuits are only rated for a specific amount of amps, so putting a larger amp fuse onto a smaller amp rated circuit is potentially dangerous.

Federal Pacific/Stab-Lok

DQ type - Replace
(No interconnection upstream or downstream of this panel)

High rate of breaker failure, breakers often fail to trip, leading to overheated wiring that can lead to house fires.

Pushmatic/Bulldog

DQ type - Replace
(No interconnection upstream or downstream of this panel)

Obsolete, difficult to maintain. Circuit breakers fail to trip. Arching of the contacts within the breaker which causes them to weld together. All these concerns are considered to be potential shock and fire hazards.

Zinsco / GTE Sylvania Style Busbars

DQ type - Replace
(No interconnection upstream or downstream of this panel)

Obsolete. Circuit breakers fail to trip - failure rate much higher than what is considered an acceptable margin of safety. Potential fire hazard.

Busbar Example

60A Meter Button/Can

Upgrade

Old houses with 60A service likely to hav a 60A meter. Is not typically enough for modern electrical usage. Typically not approved by most AHJs or utilities.

60A Service

Upgrade

Old houses with 60A service are not typically enough for modern electrical usage. Not approved by most AHJs or utilities.

Challenger Panels

See right

Supply side/Line side tap is OK.

Backfeed breaker interconnections shall be done using a non-challenger breaker.
​
The biggest concern for Challengers breakers were their issue with overheating. In turn, that can cause many other issues, like fusing and/or melting, corrosion, or actual fires. Occasionally they don’t trip at all, or just may take too long to trip.

Split Bus & Hot Bus Panels

AHJ Discretion

Not compliant for interconnection per NEC - but will be allowed if AHJ deems the panel is OK.

Requirement Reminder: All above policy relates to Single Phase electrical configurations, the only allowable phase configuration for Palmetto Lightreach. Three (3) Phase systems will not be considered for financial qualification

F) Multiple System Parameters

Click for Details on Check 5 of 5: Existing Solar / Multiple System Parameters

While multiple system (i.e. separate system, second system) installations are not expressly prohibited, they are typically higher risk, and as such: Installers should proceed with extreme caution and be well familiarized with the guidance outlined below to avoid project disqualification.

Customers with existing solar systems can often be misguided about the implications of additional PV systems. As such, careful homeowner education is always advised. LightReach recommends taking additional steps outlined in our Compliance Guidelines to protect against any potential adverse claims.

Any time a customer has more than one solar system, they will fall into one of the following categories. As nuances and industry terminology tends to vary widely, LightReach has characterized each term below:

1) Add-on 🔴

Click for Add-On Details

Definition

Examples

Add Ons

  • Additional Panels tied into the same inverter/combiner/gateway and meter

  • These are considered UNACCEPTABLE and would require separate equipment and configuration corrections to qualify for Palmetto Lightreach

  • A homeowner purchased an 8 module system a few years ago, but has increased energy demands now and wants to add modules to an existing system’s inverter and stringing

  • The customer asks to add solar to their new home addition, saying they previously used micros and would want added strings of micros to their new roof space. You intend to use the existing roof junction box, combiner and reporting gateway to minimize additional equipment

2) Second (2nd) Systems 🟡

Click for Second (2nd) System details

Definition

Examples

Second Systems

  • Separate PV inverter or gateway equipment, stringing, and interconnecting into a service with an existing, but separate system

  • These are allowable by Palmetto Lightreach, but these configurations require proper planning and execution. Please continue reading below for considerations and planning advice

  • The customer requests a new (Gen 3) Enphase PV system to be installed on the other half of his roof, opposite of their existing Enphase PV-only system from a few years ago. Installer plans to install an in-line filter to reduce noise in the AC lines and ensures the interconnections both abide by NEC requirements.

  • Homeowner is now ready for a more robust PV + Storage system to pair alongside their initial, existing PV system with no storage. The existing PV system will be re-connected to the home service upstream of a new Tesla Gateway 3 to ensure no existing PV is located in the backup circuit of the new Palmetto Lightreach system

  • Eligible Second System Configurations: This table is intended to highlight situations in which the site would be eligible for a second system while meeting system segregation guidelines.

  • Second systems are acceptable only if certain conditions are met. Installer should treat second system with caution. Conditions include:

    1. California - No second solar systems (With the exception of LADWP utility)

    2. Illinois - No second solar systems (any utility)

    3. Approved by Utility. (Certified Installers are responsible for confirming utility policies for second systems)

    4. Does not interfere or impact pre-existing system NEM or value proposition for the customer in any way.

    5. Any code violations or installation irregularities associated with the 1st system are fully addressed by the Certified Installer, at the installer's own risk.

    6. All second systems must have independent monitoring IDs separate from any existing system.

  • Hawaii Second System Policy: Non-Export systems are ineligible for LightReach funding. Please carefully review our Hawaii System Eligibility Policy here.

3) Separate Systems 🟢

Click for Separate System details

Definition

Examples

  • A separate/new system connected to a different electric meter, on a different utility account, unrelated to any existing solar systems.

  • These are acceptable, up to 3 systems per applicant. These are effectively new customers for Palmetto LightReach, who may have multiple units/properties and want solar on each.

  • A family owns both sides of a duplex, they purchased a Palmetto Lightreach system in 2024 and were so pleased with their savings, they wanted to add another system to their other half of the building they own completely.

  • In California, a notable exception allows for the installation of a new Photovoltaic (PV) system on a secondary living unit, provided the unit maintains separate energy metering. This configuration is one of the limited ways to establish multiple PV systems in close proximity without jeopardizing eligibility for Net Energy Metering (NEM) qualification in CA. Therefore, it is essential to always verify that the system's design fully complies with all regulatory requirements to prevent the loss of available PV incentives.

Supplemental Guide: Second System Configurations and Eligibility

G) FAQ

A

Golf course homes

  • Golf course homes are acceptable, but, damage caused by golf balls does not qualify for (no cost) panel replacement or production guarantee.

  • This means that if a panel is damaged by a golf ball, LightReach can fix the damage/replace the panel at cost. Any lost production is not covered by the production guarantee.

C

Active Utilities

Link to "Active Utilities" to cross reference open utilities.

D

Ground Mounts

[Ended 1/1/26]

As of 1/1/26, Ground Mounts are no longer eligible due to FEOC requirements.

E

Manufactured Homes? Mobile Homes?

Not permitted & will not be funded: Manufactured homes, mobile homes, double wides or other non-traditional standalone single family houses are not permitted regardless of PV installation type.

Characteristics of manufactured/mobile homes include but are not limited to:

  • Single & double wides

  • Have HUD plates

  • Has a metal and/or non-permanent support structure/foundation.

F

Townhomes

Closed Program

  • EXPANSION PROGRAM participation ONLY

  • See Partner Success Metrics Section C - Expansion Program for entrance requirements

G

Pergolas? Carports? Custom structures? Condos?

Disqualified mounting structures, such as carports, condos, or other irregular/custom structures (includes add on porches that are not part of the original structure), are not eligible due to the long term maintenance and safety risk to the customer.

H

Commercial?

Agricultural? Businesses?

LightReach approves only residential structures. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure site eligibility.

Home must be residential meter, residential zoned, and residential use. Installers are advised to avoid homes which fall outside of a standard residential scope.

Homes which are partial use, or otherwise not solely residential use, must still prove the same residential requirements as above. For example:

  • A customer owns a duplex. They live upstairs and run a small business/shop out of the first floor. So long as the solar system is attached to a residence, with a residential meter/interconnection, the account can generally be approved.

  • In contrast, a customer who owns a commercial shop/business and has a break room with a couch upstairs would not be approved.

I

Do we enforce or check HOA status?

  • HOA is an installers responsibility and if there are issues that emerge from bypassing that local approval the installer is liable.

J

Does Palmetto LightReach allow for Tree Trimming?

  • NO - Palmetto mandates that trees are either fully accounted for in the design of the system or are fully removed by the time of system activation.

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