Corporation Commission dooms net metering, adopts new rates for solar

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The Arizona Corporation Commission decided today that net metering for new solar users will eventually go away, but existing rooftop solar customers can keep their rates for 20 years.

Under net metering, utilities are required to purchase excess energy from rooftop solar panels, a key incentive that has allowed the solar industry to flourish in Arizona.

The commission voted to gradually adjust rates for net metering. New customers will be locked into set rates for 10 years, starting on the date they adopt solar energy. The solar industry asked for 20 years, arguing that fewer years would not provide the certainty that have drawn people to solar energy.

The commission praised its work as a step forward, but a major solar organization said it is “deeply disappointed” in the decision.

The decision will shape how utilities assess solar energy in rate cases in the coming years, ultimately affecting the viability of the rooftop solar industry in Arizona.

Read more at AZ Capitol Times

Corrie O'Connor