A New Net-Metering Proposal Could Benefit California's Community Solar Subscribers

A New Net-Metering Proposal Could Benefit California's Community Solar Subscribers California’s electricity prices are notoriously burdensome for its residents. The issue is only exacerbated by the fact that many parts of the state experience scorching summers (making

energy usage during peak hours a must), and that the cost of housing alone is already a major strain.

These economic pressures have motivated many CA residents to pursue savings via solar.

But one drawback is that many of the homeowners who are hardest hit by electricity prices are also least capable of purchasing their own solar systems. This means that access is limited for those who need relief the most.

But soon, these circumstances may be changing. A proposal by the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) in California’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) proceeding was issued, calling for a Net Value Billing Tariff supporting community solar. This would compensate residents who subscribe to community solar projects, crediting them based on the value of the project’s generation at the time it’s provided to the grid.

Benefits Expected Senator Connie M. Leyva (D-Chino) outlined the benefits of the new net metering proposal with the following statement: “The Net Value Billing Tariff would address several important needs for viable community renewable energy projects in California, specifically ensuring that disadvantaged communities and low-income residents are able

to directly participate in and benefit from the transition to renewable energy.”

Proponents of the suggested net metering plan cite it as a cost-effective solution for expanding community solar plus storage throughout the state, and increasing accessibility to disadvantaged populations. It would also make it easier for the state to meet its clean energy goals, and for new housing to meet state mandates.

Chris Ochoa, Senior Counsel for Codes, Regulatory and Legislative Affairs for the California Building Industry Association, explained this with his own statement of support: “Going forward, community solar will be a critical tool needed for compliance with the CEC’s renewable energy mandates for residential and soon, non-residential construction… There are currently no viable community solar options for meeting these mandates for the majority of the state, and CCSA’s proposal would provide a much-needed solution.”

Are More Solar Projects to Come in 2022?

The CPUC will be issuing a new Net Energy Meeting plan in early 2022. It is expected that they will decide whether or not to include the proposed changes by the end of this year.

Should the CPUC decide to incorporate net metering for community solar in its policy revision, we can expect to see an increase in demand for solar installations. With greater access and savings enabled, more Californians will seek out solar for their own locales.

Until this swell of demand comes, contractors with suffering sales numbers will need to double down on generating solar panel leads for private rooftop projects. Grid Freedom can help contractors connect with financially-prepared customers who have already been set up with appointments. All leads are competition-free, never shared with other contractors.

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