News from DSIRE: week of 7/25/11
CALIFORNIA – Virtual Net Metering Approved
The CPUC approved a virtual net metering pilot tariff in 2009 that allows a single PV system installed under the Multi-family Affordable Solar Housing (MASH) Program to offset multiple tenants’ meters. After weighing feedback from stakeholders, the CPUC approved a proposed decision in mid-July to allow virtual net metering for all multi-tenant properties and all technologies.
CONNECTICUT – Epic Energy Bill Enacted
Connecticut has enacted a massive new energy bill (SB 1243), and the DSIRE staff is still wading through the details. For now, we recommend reviewing Vote Solar’s summary and bookmarking the Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority, which is replacing the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund.
ILLINOIS – SREC Aggregation Program Enters Hibernation
The Illinois Solar Energy Association has closed its SREC aggregation program for 2011. Applications will still be accepted and placed on a waiting list. The program currently has an annual cap of 160 SRECs.
MASSACHUSETTS – Commonwealth Solar II Round 7 Funds Available
Incentive levels have not changed, but a few tweaks have been made. Interested stakeholders are should review program materials closely.
MASSACHUSETTS – Boston Sweetens State Solar Program
With funding from the federal Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant Program, the city of Boston is providing solar rebates for residential solar. These incentives will be added to rebates under the state’s Commonwealth Solar II rebate program. To participate, residents must arrange an energy audit and make recommended energy efficiency upgrades. Boston is one of the original Solar America Cities designated by the U.S. Department of Energy.
MISSOURI – Solar Rebate Mayhem
In Missouri, the Cole County Circuit Court has ruled against a component of Proposition C, which requires utilities with renewable energy obligations under the state’s RPS to offer a rebate of at least $2/W for PV systems. As a result of the ruling, Ameren has suspended its solar rebate program.
OHIO – Tax Exemptions for Large Renewables Extended
Ohio’s 2011 budget bill (HB 153) extended the state’s Qualified Energy Project Tax Exemption. Renewables project developers now have until January 1, 2014, to begin construction. Most eligible projects must be placed into service into service by 2015. CHP facilities must begin operating by January 1, 2019.
OKLAHOMA – New Law Aims to Rescue PACE
Fresh legislation (S.B. 102) enacted by Oklahoma has amended the state’s PACE policy by making PACE liens junior and inferior to other liens. Effective November 1, 2011, this law should allow local governments to adopt PACE programs that are within the acceptable parameters established by the FHFA.
TENNESSEE – Clean Energy Sales Tax Refund Established
Tennessee has enacted legislation that allows a 100% refund of sales and use taxes paid on purchases of machinery and equipment used to produce electricity in a certified green energy production facility. To qualify, facilities must be certified by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation as producing electricity for use and consumption off the premises using clean energy technology. Systems that generate electricity from geothermal, hydrogen, solar or wind energy are generally eligible.
TEXAS – 3rd-Party Ownership Authorized
Legislation enacted earlier this summer by Texas (S.B. 981) officially opens the door to third-party-owned systems that are designed to meet some or all the customer’s annual electricity consumption — but not to exceed it. The law goes takes effect September 1. Check out DSIRE’s summary map of 3rd-Party Power Purchase Agreements to find out which other states currently allow 3rd-party PPAs.
VIRGINIA – Danville Launches Met Metering Program
The city of Danville now offers net metering for residential systems up to 10kW residential and non-residential systems up to 500kW. Aggregate capacity is limited to 1% of the municipal utility’s peak load. RECs are owned by the customer. Danville’s new policy is similar to the state’s net-metering policy, which does not apply to municipal utilities.
WISCONSIN – Large Hydro Eligible for RPS
Wisconsin has enacted legislation that allows large hydroelectric facilities (up to 60 MW) to qualify toward RPS compliance beginning in December 2015. Special eligibility requirements are included for facilities in Manitoba, Canada.
WISCONSIN – After False Start, Renewables Sales Tax Exemption Available
Wisconsin’s sales tax exemption for wind, solar and agricultural waste digesters is now available after a two-year delay. The exemption was originally scheduled to take effect in July 2009, but it was delayed until July 2011. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue also adopted an emergency rule in June 2011 in order to clarify which types of equipment qualify.
WYOMING – PACE Financing Authorized
Wyoming has authorized local governments to provide financing for cost-effective energy improvements to existing residential, commercial and industrial properties. The amount borrowed is repaid via a special assessment on the property over a number of years.
