True or False? TEP is a Monopoly

Many folks say/think TEP is a legal monopoly. I’d say the consensus is they are an actual monopoly, but they are at least governed by an outside body in some ways (Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC)).

 

For Tucson homeowners though, there is no alternative to TEP for electric power- they own/operate the grid.

 

That, generally, is that… Not much choice to be had, unless of course you talk to a solar sales bro.

 

When a homeowner gets solar installed on their home, there are generally two methods they can use to finance that installation.

 

Direct ownership or third party ownership.

 

In Direct ownership, the homeowner either purchases the system and installation with cash on hand or uses a loan from a financial institution like a bank, credit union, or specialty finance provider.

 

In third party ownership, a homeowner agrees to allow a third party (not the homeowner or TEP) to purchase and install a solar power system on the home and then purchases the power from that third party (instead of TEP).

 

The different ways a homeowner can finance the installation of a solar power system all have advantages and drawbacks that (I think) must be considered by each individual homeowner given that everyone pretty much has unique needs, finances, and desires.

 

But as far as that TEP monopoly goes- Solar provides at least some relief from being locked into whatever TEP and the ACC cook up for homeowners who basically have no options otherwise.

 

If you’re looking for more information about adding solar power to your home, you might want to hop on over and check out my upcoming book Tucson Solar Insider Desk Guide for Buying Solar- click here

 

Be Good!

Curtis