Hello fellow solar enthusiasts! In the world of solar energy, a topic that’s been heating up lately involves ‘net metering.’ Maybe you’ve heard about it? It’s a system used by many solar companies that gives credits to homeowners for the extra energy their solar panels produce. But currently, in New Hampshire, this system’s future hangs in the balance and could change the solar industry as we know it.
Net metering is a crucial point of concern for those considering solar panels for their homes. This policy, in existence since 1998, provides credit to ratepayers on utility bills for surplus solar energy sent back to the grid. And trust me, this ‘little’ system significantly affects your solar array’s cost-effectiveness at home.
The recent settlement in consideration will affect solar panel installation and consequently the growth of solar companies in New Hampshire. The proposed settlement includes maintaining the current rate for two years and the introduction of application fees (ranging from $200 to $1000) for net-metered projects. This new addition seeks to alleviate administrative costs shouldered by non-net-metering customers, directly impacting potential solar panel owners.
In an era where the sun’s power is in constant demand, New Hampshire isn’t exactly known as a solar energy powerhouse. In fact, the state’s solar energy contribution is 1.94% of its total electricity, significantly lagging behind neighbors like Massachusetts, which boasts a healthy 23.75%. So, why the disparity?
A significant factor is the consistently high cost of electricity in New Hampshire. Sitting at the 8th highest in the country, it averages at 23.1 cents per kWh. While solar energy provides a sustainable solution to ease these costs, unfavorable regulations like the potential reduction or elimination of net metering can deter potential solar panel adopters—and that includes families, nonprofits, businesses, and towns.
For those considering solar arrays for homes in New Hampshire, the future of net metering is crucial. Its existence provides the foundation for many individual and community-based solar projects, offering a reasonable return on investment with net metering credits. But its potential revision or cancellation could drastically change the state’s solar landscape, mimicking the recent solar dilemma in California.
In California, a net metering rule called NEM 3.0, reduced compensation for exported rooftop solar generation by approximately 80%. And the results? An 80% drop in installation applications and loss of nearly 17,000 rooftop solar jobs—a significant blow to the solar company landscape.
What does this mean for New Hampshire and those shopping for solar panels for their home? It’s a wake-up call and a reminder. Considering solar means engaging in policies that influence your solar array’s cost-effectiveness at home. And as the conversation continues, it’s essential for potential solar panel owners to stay informed and have their voices heard.
Interested in sharing your opinion? Clean Energy NH advises that comments on the potential rate change email to ClerksOffice@puc.nh.gov by August 30, 2024. Be part of the change, be part of the drive towards a solar-powered future!
So, whether you’re planning for a solar array for a home, researching solar companies, or a fan of all things solar, remember that net metering’s future will affect us all. Stay tuned, solar advocates! Together we can help shape a brighter future!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/08/21/net-metering-hangs-in-the-balance-in-new-hampshire/
