APS Announces First Group of Qualified Solar Installers

32 Installers Achieve QSI Designation

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the first program of its kind in Arizona, 32 residential solar installers became the first to achieve the designation of Qualified Solar Installer (QSI) from Arizona Public Service Co. These installers passed a challenging series of technical, professional and administrative courses; hold the appropriate licenses with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors; and have achieved high customer satisfaction ratings.

“These installers are leaders in the industry”

The QSI designation allows residential customers to feel comfortable they have selected a solar installer that is technically competent, understands APS’s policy and procedures and has demonstrated exemplary customer service.

“These installers are leaders in the industry,” said Eran Mahrer, APS’s Director of Renewable Energy. “They understand the complexities associated with the various types of solar installations and are dedicated to the highest level of technical skills, customer service and consumer safety.”

The QSI program was developed in response to Arizona’s quickly growing solar industry. Since 2006, the number of solar installers has grown from 41 to more than 300. This program helps customers select an appropriate and knowledgeable installer. More than 60 companies participated in the first round of training, with 32 graduating in the inaugural class. APS anticipates more than 75 companies will receive their QSI certification in 2010.

To achieve a QSI designation, installers must pass at least one of two course tracks – one for installers of solar electric systems (photovoltaics) and one for solar water heaters (solar thermal). The photovoltaic series consists of four, two-day courses. The solar thermal series has three courses, spanning a total of five days.

Both series cover the entire range of solar installation issues, including theory and application of solar technologies, technical skills of installation and maintenance, safety issues, applicable codes and interconnection issues. The courses also cover working with APS, including the final inspection process and the administration of APS’s Solar and Renewable Energy Incentive Program, as well as sales standards and ethics.

Installers designated as a QSI must continue to keep high standards including maintaining a quarterly customer satisfaction rating as determined by the Electric League of Arizona, have a satisfactory pass rate for APS inspections and pass annual technical and professional education workshops. A list of QSI’s is available at aps.com/findsolar. Customers also can find a QSI by calling the APS Energy Answer Line at [phone].

APS, Arizona's largest and longest-serving electricity utility, serves more than 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state's 15 counties. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).