Opinion: Solar subsidies need to be scaled back

SUN JOURNAL • February 26, 2025

Residential solar is beneficial in meeting our energy goals. However, the development of large solar fields should not come at the expense of ratepayers who don’t have the means to pay the upfront costs of installing solar arrays. That’s why I introduced “An Act to Prohibit Net Energy Billing by Certain Customers.” My bill would allow individuals and small businesses to continue adding power to the grid and be compensated for that power. Large solar developers, however, would not be eligible to participate, as it is these large developments that are causing rates to go up and nearly double for some commercial ratepayers. ~ Sen. Bruce Bickford, Auburn