The term "administrator" has the following two meanings in this chapter:

(1) For purposes of a shared commercial solar project, the administrator is a utility or a business under contract with a utility which administers a shared commercial solar project that meets the eligibility requirements specified in this chapter. The administrator applies for certification on behalf of each of the project participants. In addition, the administrator performs administrative tasks on behalf of the owners as may be necessary, such as:

(a) Receiving the renewable energy incentive payments;

(b) Allocating and paying appropriate amounts of such payments to owners; and

(c) Communicating with the energy program about any changes in participants.

(2) For purposes of a community solar project as defined in WAC 504-49-120, the administrator is the utility, nonprofit, or local housing authority (as defined in RCW 35.82.020) that organizes and administers the community solar project. The administrator is responsible for applying for the renewable energy system incentive on behalf of the system's owners. In addition, the administrator performs administrative tasks on behalf of the owners as may be necessary, such as:

(a) Receiving the renewable energy incentive payments;

(b) Allocating and paying appropriate amounts of such payments to owners; and

(c) Communicating with the energy program about any changes in participants.