El Paso Electric Faces Criticism for New Fees on Solar Customers
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AI Summary
El Paso resident Jon Muir has expressed frustration over a recent spike in his electric bill, which increased to $117 due to a new fee imposed by El Paso Electric. This comes as Texas law, HB 912, mandates a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis for rooftop solar customers before any fee changes. Despite this requirement, El Paso Electric has not conducted the necessary analysis and continues to charge solar customers significantly less for the energy they contribute to the grid compared to what the utility charges other customers. The new demand charge, which affects solar owners who installed systems after December 2017, adds further financial pressure. Community leaders are urged to push for compliance with the new law to ensure fair compensation for solar energy contributions.
Key Details: • New fees on electric bills for solar customers took effect in May 2023. • HB 912 requires a cost-benefit analysis by El Paso Electric, effective September 1, 2023. • Solar customers are compensated less than 2 cents per kilowatt-hour for their energy. • Demand charges will apply to solar owners who installed systems after December 18, 2017. • Public pressure is needed for El Paso Electric to comply with state law.