Workers install panels on the roof of a home in Boulder. (Helen H. Richardson, Denver Post file)
Re: “Xcel, solar industry spar over value of rooftop solar at PUC session,” Oct. 2 business news story.
As the Public Utilities Commission continues to evaluate rooftop solar, it is important to acknowledge the full impact of the net metering program on all consumers.
While it may seem like a win-win to put solar panels on roofs and sell back the excess electricity, there are plenty of dark clouds looming. Thatap because the full “retail rate” that the typically affluent solar users want for their excess electricity fails to account for all that goes into maintaining a community’s grid — the poles, wires, transformers and other costs beyond just power generation.
These costs are unfortunately shifted to the rest of consumers who are forced to collectively finance the projects of the solar users.
Ultimately, this amounts to a solar energy subsidy that benefits few, but burdens many. Letap hope that the PUC agrees to a fair and balanced approach for everyone.
Bill Ray, Denver
This letter was published in the Oct. 9 edition.
