Wrenches, Below is an excerpt of an announcement about New Mexico's largest IOU developing a utility-owned PV roofs program. They will contract the installations but own the systems. The details aren't yet out; the announcement is about an upcoming meeting to gather feedback.
I can't help but smell a rat. I want to be prepared to challenge the plan if appropriate. It seems to me that a regulated monopoly with a guaranteed rate of return and deep pockets should not own PV systems on customers' roofs, and shouldn't be competing with the private sector to offer systems. I remember that some years back this came up in California and CalSEIA successfully fought it. I also recall that SMUD originated this approach and got out of it as a failed experiment, but I don't know the whole story. I'm writing to request links, archives, strategies, and experiences from similar battles (or not) elsewhere on this issue. I would like to be well prepared if we are to fight this. Thank you. Allan Sindelar [email protected] NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer EE98J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. 3201 Calle Marie Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 505 424-1112 www.positiveenergysolar.com _____ From: Subject: PNM Solar PV Workshop As part of the PNM renewable energy strategy, we would like your feedback on an innovative program we are developing that would place utility-owned solar PV systems on customer roof tops or customer land. Because of your experience installing solar PV systems, we value your input and would like for you to join us in this interactive workshop on Wednesday August 5, 2009 In this workshop, we will share our plans for this program and get your ideas. Here are some program highlights so far: * 4 MW of installed solar capacity (turnkey installation by PV system integrator or PV contractor to be determined) * Solar PV systems ranging in size from 2kW to 250kW on customer rooftops and customer land * Awarded in blocks (to be determined): EXAMPLES ONLY 50 residential systems of 2kW totaling 100 kW 10 systems of 100 kW totaling 1MW 4 systems of 250 kW totaling 1MW The objectives of the workshop are: * To select optimal block award * To brainstorm optimal size of residential and commercial PV system * To explore program design
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