net metering

States like Louisiana are making rooftop solar less financially viable by shifting from net metering to lower-value net billing programs, reducing compensation for excess electricity sent to the grid. Federal solar tax credit expiration and state policy changes have compounded these challenges, while battery storage remains an expensive alternative.

Massachusetts utilities earn profits through grid infrastructure rather than electricity sales, which is critical context for evaluating a MIT study arguing rooftop solar raises rates. The study excludes grid costs from utility-scale solar projects, which could distort conclusions used to justify reducing solar credits for homeowners.

Vermont’s Public Utility Commission (PUC) decision to raise costs and barriers for net metering solar installations has drawn criticism from town energy committee members, who argue it undermines efforts to reduce energy costs and pollution. The decision conflicts with public support for solar energy and comes amid federal rollbacks of solar tax incentives.