Delaware's Net Metering Success Stands Out Amid Climate Action Setbacks and Offshore Wind Uncertainty
In recent developments, Delaware's net metering program has proven beneficial, while climate action faces setbacks in Vermont and Maryland. Meanwhile, the future of offshore wind projects hangs in the balance due to potential cuts in clean energy tax credits.
A new report reveals that Delaware's net metering program generates $1.28 in direct benefits for utility customers for every dollar invested. This program allows customers to feed surplus solar power back into the grid.
In contrast, climate action in Vermont has stalled due to political changes and delayed rules for increasing electric vehicle (EV) sales. Meanwhile, Maryland's climate justice efforts have taken a step backward following the governor's veto of legislation calling for studies into the costs of greenhouse gas emissions and data center development.
Offshore wind developments face uncertainty as Republican plans to slash clean energy tax credits could endanger these projects. Massachusetts has delayed implementation of rules requiring increasing percentages of car sales to be electric, but still requires automakers to report EV sales and marketing efforts.
In regulatory news, New Hampshire's Unitil can only pass on extra energy supply costs to customers who buy their electricity from the company. Northeastern states are working on increasing transmission capacity, but the future of the New England grid remains uncertain due to offshore wind developments.
Lastly, Central Maine Power plans to create a 50,000-acre conservation area as part of a deal allowing its construction of a controversial transmission line. In a separate incident, Maine environmental regulators fined a solar company over $200,000 for polluting the Kennebec River during the construction of a solar array.
While Delaware's net metering program demonstrates clear benefits, climate action faces challenges in Vermont and Maryland. The future of offshore wind projects remains uncertain due to potential tax credit cuts. Meanwhile, utility companies and regulators continue to navigate energy supply costs and environmental concerns.
