Invest in renewable energy through your cooperative.
You can invest in renewable energy by buying energy in blocks of 100-kWh blocks a month at a special rate of $.20 per block above your regular rate. In partnership with GRE, ECE offers a renewable energy package that has a positive impact on the environment because it reduces the consumption of non-renewable resources. If you commit to buying two blocks of renewable energy each month for one year that equals driving your car 6,000 fewer miles or planting an acre of trees.
Download a Renewable Energy Application Form
Download a printable 2023 member-owned renewable FAQ
Download a printable renewable programs FAQ
Solar array at ECE's Braham Headquarters
The solar array at ECE's Braham Headquarters is generating electricity and providing information we can use to help answer your questions about small-scale solar energy.
Interested in investing in your own solar energy system
Please follow the links below for more information about solar energy.
www.energy.gov/energysources/solar.htm
www.solarelectricpower.org
www.eere.energy.gov
www.renewwisconsin.org/toolboxes.htm
Grants/Tax Incentives
www.dsireusa.org
www.energystar.gov
Cogeneration
Minnesota Adopted Rules Relating to Cogeneration and Small Power Production, Chapter 7835, East Central Energy is required to interconnect with and purchase electricity from cogenerators and small power producers which satisfy the conditions of a Qualifying Facility. Learn more
Research before you sign
Stay solar smart
As the demand for solar energy skyrockets, the solar industry is seeing steeper competition. This can lead to an increase in deceptive solar advertisements and scams. While the industry has many reputable providers, the media has been bombarded with ads that promote “low-cost” or “no-upfront-cost” programs. Increasingly, these ads tend to make false claims about special government or utility programs.
Why do solar scams exist? Simply put: to generate leads and get your contact information. When you enter your details to “see if you qualify,” a sales representative can contact you directly, day or night, and sell your information to other marketing firms.
What kind of claims are being made? Some companies offer “no-cost options” due to a “special government program.” Remember, legitimate financing does exist—but rarely from the government. Other companies overestimate future utility rate increases to exaggerate your return on investment.
What should you look out for? Be wary of ads that sound too good to be true. Additionally, look for phrases like “limited time,” “special program,” or “no-cost.” And if you’re visited by a pushy door-to-door salesperson, don’t sign an agreement you don’t fully understand.
Always do your research before signing a contract. Ask for bids from competing installers. Take the time to ask questions so you fully understand each proposal. And finally, call your ECE energy experts at 1-800-254-7944. We’re here to help!