Xcel Energy Agreement To Support More Solar Energy
DENVER (AP) — State regulators approved a settlement agreement involving Xcel Energy that allows for more flexible electricity rates and more solar power.
The Denver Post reports the state Public Utilities Commission approved the deal Wednesday.
Under the settlement, Xcel will drop its proposal to implement a grid charge that would've increased costs for rooftop solar owners. Instead, customers who place power onto the system will receive more favorable net metering raters and have fewer energy storage restrictions.
A pilot program will also adjust electricity rates based on low- and high-demand periods and prevent higher charges if a customer's total demand goes over a set limit.
The agreement provides additional megawatts for rooftop solar, solar gardens and power generated from industrial waste heat.
Opponents say it gives Xcel Energy an unfair competitive advantage in the solar industry.
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