Dear Members, Activists and Friends,        

This week — likely as soon as tomorrow — House lawmakers are going to consider a bill that will help many more Vermonters install solar energy systems on their homes and businesses. Passed out of the House Natural Resources and Energy Committee on a unanimous vote, and with broad consensus from diverse stakeholders, it’s anticipated the House will pass this bill to raise the cap on the state’s successful net metering program.

Lawmakers still need to hear from you.
Net metering — which allows Vermonters to generate their own clean, local power — is popular, but the Legislature needs to act affirmatively to allow it to expand.

Over the past few months, several electric utilities have hit a statutory net metering “cap” and stopped taking net-metered projects, leaving many homeowners and businesses in the lurch. This bill will clear the way for more Vermont families, schools, municipalities and businesses to go solar, reduce their carbon footprint and meet much of their own energy needs. We hope lawmakers will act swiftly and affirmatively in the House … and soon after in the Senate.

Let your lawmakers know if you agree a net metering fix is necessary.

You can read more about what’s in the bill in a recent article written by Representative Rebecca Ellis, vice chair of the House Natural Resources and Energy Committee. You can also read an overview of the issues, written by Public Service Department’s Deputy Commissioner Darren Springer.

We will keep you posted on the progress of this important issue. And, if the House passes this bill, please be ready to thank House members for their good work!

Thanks for all you do.

The VNRC Team