BREAKING: SEIA expected to name Abigail Hopper as new CEO
The reported choice to lead SEIA served as the head of the Maryland Energy Association and was an energy advisor to Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, during whose administration Maryland developed a progressive solar policy.
Ohio governor temporarily saves solar from RPS freeze
In a decision that surprised some Ohio solar observers, Gov. John Kasich vetoed House Bill 554, passed on Dec. 7, which would have turned the RPS into a voluntary program without any compliance obligations through 2021. The legislature could override the veto in the next legislative session, which begins on Jan. 9.
HECO’s five-year plans accommodate more solar than ever
The aggressive goals filed last week builds on an April plan include expanded rooftop solar growth and additional utility-scale solar expansion. If HECO’s projections are accurate, it will be generating 100% its electricity from renewable sources five years earlier than originally planned.
Duke program produces 40 MW of solar in South Carolina
More than 1,800 residential customers and 125 business customers have taken advantage of the utility’s Solar Rebate Program to reduce solar installation costs significantly.
Nevada regulators reinstate net metering for Sierra Pacific
In contrast to phony allegations of a cost shift, Public Utilities Commission of Nevada found that net metered-solar is saving other customers money.
Hawaiian Electric proposes first rate increase in six years
The company says the $106 million request is necessary to upgrade O’ahu’s grid to improve reliability and customer service, as well as integrate more solar.
Maine regulators delay decision on net metering
The state hit a trigger level which allowed regulators to modify net metering, but now they are delaying making changes to shut the program down.
Michigan revamps RPS, net-metering in last-minute bill
After marathon negotiations lasting more than 20 hours, the state’s legislature raised the renewable portfolio standard (RPS) and sets a deadline to create a “grid” charge for distributed-generation customers — but current customers are exempt.
FERC declines to intervene in Montana PURPA fight
The federal regulatory body states that Montana’s PSC is not in compliance with PURPA, and says that FLS Energy is free to pursue a remedy in the courts.
PG&E switches to Net Metering 2.0
Less than a week after warning that it would hit caps on the previous net metering program some some time in December, the California utility has transitioned to its successor program.
