The state of Maine’s got something going called “Net Energy Billing” . What it boils down to is a fund that comes from energy bills which is used to “attract” renewable energy firms to install community solar in the state. These fees on utility bills are called “stranded costs,” and utilities use them to “purchase” electricity from “renewable energy developers.”
Sound confusing and a little scammy, almost like a Nigerian prince sent you an email that started “Dearly Beloved” to pitch it?
It is.
In other words, if I’m interpreting it correctly, the additional “stranded costs” fees on consumer electrical bills fund subsidies to try to entice solar developers to move into the state. The utility company uses this “fund” to guarantee a developer a certain rate to buy their renewable energy if they agree to move into the state and set up shop. The solar developer gets 100% of the fees -…
