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@IRonMaN wrote:

But if it isn't plugged into the system it hasn't been placed in service yet.

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I can't verify this for all installations, but my solar was plugged into my house before the utility company came out.  The installer even showed it powering things.   Just because he turned the light-switch back off doesn't mean it was no longer installed.

I THINK it even could have powered the 'grid' before the electric company came out (although I would not have received credit for it).  But the credit is not based in whether or not it is ready to power the grid, it is based being able to power your house.