I bet you only have to have your interconnection application to PG&E approved by the deadline, not installed by the date. For example, I filed the paperwork (line diagram and supporting documents) with PG&E before the April 14 deadline last year, but had up to 2 years to get it installed (took until Jan 2 of this year). I confirmed it still qualified for NEM 2.0. Also, you can do the application with PG&E without having a contractor first, which is what I did. I used DIY resellers and offshore design company to get all the information and get the docs done. Cost is very low to use an offshore design company, like a few hundred including all stamps. I saved more than 65% rather than using a traditional solar company. You should be under $1/kw for ALL equipment, more like $0.75/kw.