SaskPower Set to Launch Revamped Net Metering Program
Oct 17, 2019
SaskPower plans to launch its updated Net Metering Program for customers who want to generate their own power and connect to the power grid, effective November 1.
When unprecedented demand caused the previous version of the program to hit its 16-megawatt (MW) cap two years earlier than expected, SaskPower paused the program to do a review and revise it to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
“SaskPower has developed a Net Metering program that will provide self-generation opportunities and support local industry for years to come,” said the Dustin Duncan, Minister Responsible for SaskPower. “While large, utility-scale projects are by far the most economical way to add renewable energy to the grid, Net Metering will remain another tool in the toolbox as SaskPower works to meet its target of reducing greenhouse gases 40 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.”
Changes from the previous program include no limit on program capacity, no program end date, and no specified contract length. With the relaunch of the Net Metering program, there will no longer be a Government of Saskatchewan rebate on capital equipment and installations across the province.
“We know there is growing demand for solar self-generation in Saskatchewan,” said Mike Marsh, SaskPower President & CEO. “The updated program provides certainty and clarity for our customers who want to net meter while reducing the financial impacts on customers who do not have solar panels.”
The Net Metering Program allows customers to generate up to 100 kilowatts of power to decrease their monthly power bills and get credit for the excess power they generate. Under the updated program, customers will still be able to offset their energy use at their retail rate while their systems are generating. Any excess energy sent to the grid will be credited at 7.5 cents/kWh against the customer’s energy charge. The price reflects SaskPower’s average cost of energy for 2020 and 2021.
Customers participating in the previous Net Metering program will be grandfathered under their current contract as long as there are no changes to their projects. At the end of the contract, these customers will become part of the new program.
At a glance…
- SaskPower will launch new Net Metering program Nov. 1
- Revised program has no cap or contract term, and will credit excess power at 7.5 cents/kWh
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