A proposed revision of California’s solar net energy metering rate would be disastrous for the goal of advancing solar power, according to a utility rate design expert and economist.
As reported at PV magazine, the proposed decision by the California Public Utilities Commission would increase the payback period for rooftop solar to over 20 years, according to Dr. Ahmad Faruqui. Under current rules, the payback period is between seven and nine years. The expected lifespan of solar panels is 20 to 25 years, making a 20-year payback unattractive to most homeowners, critics charge.
The new proposal would mean that a customer with a moderate system size of 7 kW would pay an additional $56 per month for fixed charges alone. In addition, the plan would lower solar export payments by nearly 80%.
Proposal opponents are calling on Gov. Gavin Newsom to intervene.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 10, 2020
Prescient receives ICC certification for seismic resilience system
Technology suitable for buildings up to 12 stories in earthquake-prone areas.
Codes and Standards | Mar 6, 2020
Design firms creating plans to re-imagine D.C.’s tidal basin
Area including National Mall is facing increased flood risk.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2020
France to mandate all new public buildings be 50% timber or other natural materials
Measure would go into effect by 2022.
Codes and Standards | Mar 4, 2020
American Concrete Institute and Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute expand partnership
Will collaborate on new code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2020
Wallcoverings industry releases product scorecards concerning sustainability
Tool adds more transparency to certification.
Codes and Standards | Feb 28, 2020
Bay Area communities struggle with what to do about rising sea level
Policies include sea walls, levies, and relocation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2020
Cell phones present a safety hazard at job sites
Use of ear buds, headphones banned by some contractors.
Codes and Standards | Feb 26, 2020
American Concrete Institute releases 2020 codes, specifications, and practices
ACI Collection features guidance on structural concrete construction and rehabilitation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2020
New ISO standard for optimizing building use and reusing and recycling components released
Aim is to realize full potential value of a building throughout its life cycle.
Codes and Standards | Feb 21, 2020
Architects push back on proposed uniform design mandate for federal architecture
AIA speaks out against measure.