JACKSON, MS and WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, the Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) voted to approve its updated net metering and interconnection rules. The new rules expand the state’s net metering program by, among other things, increasing the participation limit for rooftop solar and prioritizing the use of solar energy for low-to-middle-income (LMI) customers.
Following is a statement from Will Giese, Southeast Regional Director of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA):
“The Mississippi Public Service Commission has taken a positive step in approving these new grid metering rules, and while the credit rate for rooftop solar customers has not changed, the Commission has taken an innovative approach and several suggestions from SEIA used to extend cost-saving measures. benefits of solar energy for more Mississippians.
“LMI customers will receive additional compensation for their solar generation, and the rules now apply to households up to 250% above the federal poverty line. This new rule will apply to nearly half a million homes and more than 1.2 million people in Mississippi. Other states should take note of Mississippi’s approach to making solar energy accessible to LMI customers.
“Only 547 homes have installed solar panels in Mississippi, the fourth-lowest of any state in the nation. These regulations have the potential to significantly expand the application of rooftop solar and ensure it fits into the budget of families regardless of income level. This market expansion will bring quality jobs, investment and economic development to communities across the state and hopefully open the door for additional policy action to build a more robust local solar and storage market.
“We appreciate the committee’s thoughtfulness and consideration of all stakeholder input. Mississippi now has the potential to become a regional clean energy leader because of their work.”
Thanks to SEIA†
Featured Image by Vijay Govindan | CleanTechnique.
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