NV Energy and the PUC argue that the new rates, which result in increased bills for most rooftop solar customers, are necessary to prevent shifting costs to nonsolar ratepayers.
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The agreement also makes eligible customers who withdrew an application, or had a RenewableGenerations application expire between December 23 and December 31, 2015, for the more favorable rates. Customers who withdrew a valid application or had their application for the RenewableGenerations expire between December 21 and December 31 are eligible to be grandfathered as well.
The agreement must still win approval from the Nevada Public Utilities Commission in a vote expected on Friday.
Rooftop solar customers could see some welcomed news if the Public Utilities Commission approves a settlement between NV Energy and Solar City. “We appreciate all parties coming together to expedite the process on behalf of our customers”.
NV Energy has filed a settlement agreement that would grandfather customers into their old rates.
The agreement, if approved, will resolve the issue.
“I am hopeful that the PUC will act quickly on this agreement”, he said in a statement.
The model was essential for many residents and business that installed small-scale solar, with the expectation that they could recoup the large upfront technology investments over time. The rate changes took effect January 1 and are being phased in over 12 years. In July, applications under the solar program were down to 14. If successful, the effort could impact all rooftop solar customers.
“A compromise means meeting halfway, but you can’t do that when solar is already shut down”, said Chandler Sherman, a spokeswoman with the solar advocacy group Bring Back Solar Alliance, earlier this year. The future of rooftop solar in Nevada is expected to be a major policy issue for the 2017 Legislature.
Regardless of whether the PUC accepts the deal, debate over the new rates is far from over. VP, Energy Supply, NV Energy.
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For new solar installations, the regulators propose to reduce and eventually eliminate, over 10 years, the value of some credits they get for excess power. “We don’t pick winners and losers, we pick the lowest cost”.
