BC Hydro is throwing shade over city solar power projects, and council is fighting back.
A proposed change to hydro’s net metering programs means buildings won’t be allowed to produce more power than they actually use, and will no longer be allowed to sell excess power back into the grid.
The city was looking at installing solar panels on the top of Glenwood to sell power into the system, but are now being told buildings won’t be allowed to produce more power than they already use.
City councillor Chris Alemany says while the proposal kills their Glenwood Center solar panel project, it’s still in play for the multiplex.
He says the proposal changes the cost benefit ratio quite significantly, and puts a chill on both commercial and residential solar panel projects.
According to recent information from the finance director, the city pays upwards of $100,000 a month, or $1.2 million a year for electricity.
City Council voted on Monday to send a letter protesting against Hydro’s proposed changes to the net metering program.