Simply put, utilities say the process results in a wealth transfer from those who depend solely on the grid to those who can afford the panels on their homes, adding that solar prices have fallen and paying higher retail rates is unnecessary. Solar rooftop owners counter that they are easing traffic over the wires, which means companies may not have to build new lines and power plants.
The “decision will bring rooftop solar into a new and more sustainable age,” said Commissioner John Reynolds. Net energy metering “has left an incredible legacy and brought solar to hundreds of thousands of Californians, but it is also profoundly expensive for non-solar customers and was overdue for reform.
“The future needs a solar program designed around the value of solar to the grid and one that encourages true carbon reductions at peak energy times, which is after the sun goes down, by creating better incentives for customers to pair solar with batteries,” he concludes. The commission is confident its order will sustain solar, reduce solar costs, and drive the adoption of energy storage.
California’s utility commission approved the plan on December 15, 2022, which applies to customers of Pacific Gas & Electric, Edison International , and Sempra Energy. It takes effect in April, although the rule 'grandfathers' existing solar customers.
Customers want to get retail prices, companies want to pay wholesale... battery requirement will take ROI to 15 years.
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