Glen Hooks, Glen.Hooks@sierraclub.org, (501) 744-2674
Edward Smith, Edward.Smith@sierraclub.org, (314) 705-4975
LITTLE ROCK, AR -- In a victory for Arkansas clean energy consumers, today the Public Service Commission (PSC) ruled that solar power generated by users and returned to the grid shall be credited by utilities at a fair price that encourages the growth of the solar industry in our state. A 2019 bipartisan solar law required the PSC to determine how to credit residential customers for the value of solar energy generated by home solar systems that flows back to the electric grid.
Under net metering, which solar advocates support, there is even compensation, meaning the excess power sent to the utility’s grid would be credited at the same price the utility sells electricity to its customers. Utilities only wanted to pay thirty percent for the solar power it purchases under net metering compared to the cost of electricity it sells to customers. Sierra Club intervened at the PSC in support of the decision today. A link to the order can be found here.
Sierra Club statement:
Glen Hooks, Director of the Sierra Club’s Arkansas Chapter: “Today is a solid victory for those who care about fairness and clean energy jobs in Arkansas. The PSC followed the lead of bipartisan lawmakers who realize the solar industry is good for the Arkansas economy, good for Arkansas consumers, and good for our Arkansas environment. This monumental decision puts the solar industry in a position to thrive by providing a regulatory environment that should grow green collar jobs throughout the state.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.