A community solar project in Maine by Nautilus Solar Energy.
On June 27, Maine Gov. Janet Mills signed a bill that allows the Maine Public Utilities Commission to change community solar net-metering rates “as needed.” LD 1777 also says the tariff rate may not exceed 1.5 times the average of the tariff rates set by other states in the region for a similar distributed generation resource.
The Coalition for Community Solar Access said this bill sets a dangerous precedent for Maine’s clean energy future.
“By approving retroactive charges on community solar projects already operating or in development, the Governor has ignored the immense benefits this program has delivered — from millions in bill savings for Maine families to new revenue streams for farmers and rural landowners, and over $800 million in private investment in the state,” CCSA said in a press statement.
“LD 1777 tears up fair market rules and breaks trust with local communities, landowners and small businesses who entered into contracts in good faith. It signals to clean energy investors that Maine is willing to change the rules halfway through the game — a message that will chill future investment and stall local projects just when Maine needs affordable, reliable energy the most,” the group continued.
