LAS VEGAS (KSNV News3LV) – The push for solar power has been heating up over the last few years. Now, this fast growth is causing some bumps in the road when it comes to setting rates and regulations.
The Public Utilities Commission at a meeting Wednesday, heard an earful from hundreds of solar power advocates. People switching to solar has happened quicker than many expected, and this growth has caused some growing pains as rates are being set. Barbara Nelson has her home all set up for solar power.
“Solar is coming. This is a no brainer,” Nelson says.
She was one of hundreds of people who were at a standing room only meeting along with hundreds of people rallying outside the building. Workers from several solar companies fear jobs will be lost if rates increase for solar energy.
“The extreme proposal NV Energy has brought to our attention will kill solar jobs,” said Teddy Stanowski with The Alliance for Solar Choice.
This group has submitted a petition to the PUC, asking for rates to stay the same until the rates are set by the end of the year. These workers say they are standing up for solar users.
“So when they are overproducing, they are selling it back to NV Energy and they want to be able to buy it back at the same price they sold,” says Noel Lloyd with Solar City.
Energy officials didn’t expect the cap set for solar use to exceed 235 megawatts so soon, as rates are not due to be changed until the end of the year because of a new law. Energy leaders say 235 megawatts should be hit any day now.
Kevin Geraghty, VP of Energy Supply at NV Energy, says back in the late 90’s policymakers set subsidies to end when solar industry can stand on its feet, and he says they are clearly there. So now setting rates is the next step. He says new consumers will see a huge savings in their energy bills.
A hearing on these issues is set for August 21st before the PUC.
Standing room only at PUC meeting. Hundreds rallying solar energy being more accessible for Nevadans. @News3LV pic.twitter.com/DWvQFpRgd9
— @SandraNews3LV (@SandraNews3LV) August 12, 2015
Hundreds of solar workers rally outside a PUC meeting. At issue a proposed rate plan. @News3LV pic.twitter.com/1MZGfsKeO2
— @SandraNews3LV (@SandraNews3LV) August 12, 2015
Solar power growing pains: Public Utilities Commission considers rates
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