The Clean Air Act has been a landmark piece of legislation that has aimed to reduce air pollution and promote the use of renewable energy sources for almost 50 years now. One of the main ways in which states are working towards this goal is by requiring a percentage of their power to be produced by renewable resources by the year 2025. However, the deadline is rapidly approaching, and many states are nowhere near hitting their target. To make up for this, states have implemented net metering laws that require local utility companies to participate and have at least 5% of their residential customers enrolled in net metering programs.
It is important to note that local utility companies have a significant stake in meeting the net metering requirements set by state legislation. In fact, if they fail to meet their target of enrolling at least 5% of their residential customers in some form of net metering program, they could face significant penalties and fines. This means that not only do utility companies have a financial incentive to comply with net metering laws, but they also have a regulatory obligation to do so. As a result, homeowners who are considering solar power can rest assured that they are not only making a positive impact on the environment, but they are also helping their local utility company meet their legal obligations, potentially avoiding significant fines and penalties. They don't WANT you to, they NEED you to!
But what is NET METERING?
Simply put, net metering allows homeowners to generate their own electricity using solar panels and other renewable resources. Any excess energy produced by these sources is then sent back to the grid, and the homeowner receives credits for the energy they provide. These credits can then be used to offset the cost of electricity they consume from the grid during times when their own renewable energy sources are not generating enough electricity.
Net metering is a win-win situation for homeowners and the environment. Homeowners are able to reduce their reliance on non-renewable energy sources and save money on their electricity bills. At the same time, net metering also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promotes the use of clean energy sources.
However, utility companies are not necessarily fans of net metering. They are losing money on this deal, as they are required to purchase excess energy from homeowners at the retail rate in order to be compliant with CLEAN AIR ACT regulations, which is often higher than the wholesale rate at which they sell electricity. In response, many utility companies are replacing traditional electric meters with new digital versions that allow them to monitor a homeowner's energy consumption during peak hours of the day. This enables them to raise rates during those hours in order to make up for the revenue lost through net metering, and cover any potential penalties for not hitting their 5% target. Those who do NOT enroll, will be one's left with the bill.
But homeowners can avoid these new rate increases by switching to solar and taking back control over the monopolies controlled by their power companies. By doing so, homeowners can generate their own electricity, save money, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. And with the availability of our monthly, quarterly, bi-annual, or annual maintenance and cleaning services for your solar panels, homeowners can ensure that their renewable energy sources are operating at optimal efficiency.
In summary, net metering is an important policy that empowers homeowners to take control of their energy consumption and reduce their carbon footprint. As the deadline for meeting renewable energy targets looms, it is more important than ever for homeowners to consider switching to solar and taking advantage of the benefits that net metering provides.