The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is looking to revise its net-metering rules for renewable energy by suggesting that the installation of renewable energy certificate (REC) meters be made voluntary.
In a report by Business World, the proposal is included in the draft amendments to ERC Resolution No. 6, Series of 2019, which adopted the rules for enabling the net-metering program for renewable energy sources.
The net-metering program permits power consumers generating electricity through renewable energy to sell their excess power to the grid, with the proceeds credited against their electricity bills.
The ERC clarified that REC meter installation should remain optional, granting distribution utilities (DUs) the ability to earn renewable energy certificates (RECs) through net-metering agreements.
Under the proposal, RECs would be based on gross generation measured through the REC meter and credited toward the DU’s compliance with the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS).
RECs are issued to participants in the RPS program to certify that energy generated, sold, or used is derived from eligible renewable energy systems.
The RPS framework mandates that distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, and retail electricity suppliers integrate a specific share of renewable energy into their power supply mix, ensuring compliance with clean energy targets.
The ERC is also considering allowing the transfer of net-metering credits in case of property ownership changes. Credits accumulated by the original property owner may be transferred to the new owner, subject to compliance with certain requirements, including a new net-metering agreement with the DU.
The ERC is pushing for greater transparency by requiring distribution utilities to present detailed generation charge breakdowns on their websites. This includes a clear representation of hosting capacities, categorized by substation and feeder, in compliance with ERC’s specified format.
The ERC has invited stakeholders to submit comments on the proposed amendments by January 17.
Be part of the change, as these ERC proposals can create opportunities for renewable energy adoption in the community.
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