AUGUSTA (AP) — Pro-solar groups and businesses have filed a petition asking state utility regulators to reconsider new solar rules.
Maine utility regulators this year tweaked its “net metering” policies that give homeowners electricity bill credits for excess solar energy produced.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission approved gradually reducing some credits for homeowners who install solar systems in 2018 or later.
Residents who have solar panels before 2018 will receive credits at the full retail rate for 15 years.
Regulators said under old rules, electricity consumers who didn’t participate in net metering were paying for transmission and distribution poles and wires that net metering customers use.
A Natural Resources Council of Maine lobbyist on Tuesday said regulators don’t have the facts and analysis to justify new rules.
Legislators are also considering solar bills.
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