Reference IPP members buying power: first, the distributers Dankoff, Hutton, Applied Power etc., all distribute the modules, inverters etc. However, recognized IPP contractors will have negotiated through IPP membership a buying credit of 3 to 5% per $100 spent for specific manufacturers who join the program.

For example, if BP or Solarex joins the program to recognize IPP members/contractors then a specific IPP member would get, say a $4.00 credit per $100 spent, for future purchases from their distributor. The distributor registers a contractor's invoice with the manufacturer to get the credit. Example of how such programs work in Florida - Solar Industries (pool collector manufacturer) recognizes authorized FLASEIA members who are authorized Solar Industries dealers and gives a $5.00 credit to the dealer for each $100 spent on solar pool collectors purchased through their Florida wholesaler.

A minimum of paper work is involved by the distributor who participates with a participating manufacturer. No filling out official forms for advertising or marketing credits etc. It's simple the distributor sends the invoice in - you get credit for your next purchase from the manufacturer through the distributor or manufacturer.

This plan doesn't force a distributor or manufacturer to participate - however, they will have created a liability for themselves by not recognizing the IPP membership credits. Buying as a member/contractor does not prevent you from getting any other discounts or offers from a specific manufacturer/distributor. Contractors who are not IPP members cannot get the credit. An IPP member could also sell his credits with a particular distributor/manufacturer to another IPP member if he decides to change manufacturer or distributor.

It makes life simpler especially if you eliminate advertising credits and have the manufacturer add it back in with purchasing volume credits. Any solar electric or solar thermal manufacturer could participate with a distributor who participates.

For example, if Siemens or Vanner participates they will recognize the buying power of all IPP members who purchase Siemens or Vanner products based on each member's purchases. All members who make large volume purchases would not lose those discounts but get additional IPP member credits. If Siemens participates then all IPP member’s buying Siemens modules will have nearly the group leverage as one large utility making a direct purchase. The only bell to put on this cat is who negotiates with specific manufacturers. Once that is done - we fold our tents - no offices, no secretaries - until we negotiate a better discount the next year. Let the manufacturers compete among themselves for credit discounts to get our business.