05 Dec Value of Solar Isn’t Getting Lower. What Gives, Austin Energy?

Austin Energy has recently decided to recommend that the Value of Solar (VOS) rate, which is paid for solar energy generation, be lowered by 16% from calendar year 2013 to calendar year 2014. 

Public Citizen has analyzed Austin Energy’s reasons for lowering the rates and we don’t think  that their analysis is based on accurate data nor does it  reflect the complete benefits of solar. Our analysis shows that VOS rate should be increased when more accurate avoided environmental costs and the PUC’s proposed Capacity Market costs are considered. (these capacity costs are being discussed and are not final) These costs could be partial avoided by adding more solar.

As you can see  the difference in assumed environmental costs alone makes a huge difference!

We urge the council to suspend the changes in the Value of Solar payment until:

• Austin Energy makes a more thorough and reasoned justification for the changes they are proposing and cites their  consultant’s  sources and justifies their assumptions
• A formal hearing is held before council
• You have had time to review the data and make a formal decision.