Saskpower’s net metering change flawed
I am writing to express concerns with the provincial government and Saskpower’s changes to the net metering program in Saskatchewan taking effect Nov. 1. I strongly believe the changes will have a negative impact on Saskatchewan-owned businesses and employees working in the solar energy industries.
It is estimated the change will result in the loss of 500 full-time jobs in the province. I am confused as to why a government would withdraw support at a critical point to emerging businesses of the future. I think the province would be better served by supporting local businesses which have real potential to create expertise and employment into the future.
To provide some background information: I have installed rooftop solar systems and have been connected through Saskpower’s net metering on my home and business since May 2018. I used funds from savings to cover the costs. The goal was to reduce household/business expenses and invest in a socially responsible manner.
I do feel cheated by Saskpower’s sudden reduction of credits from 14 cents per kilowatt hour to 7.5 cents per kwh. The stated reason is that solar net metering customers were not paying adequate amounts to maintain the grid. The rationale is flawed. For much of the year my home is producing excess electricity which Saskpower then sells at full price to other customers without encountering the cost of generating the electricity. I would suggest that the free electricity that I provide more than covers my share of costs to maintain the grid! If I consume more electricity than I produce I am charged full price. I am also charged a monthly fee to connect to the grid. Penalizing solar net metering customers because their net electricity usage has decreased is foolish. If a Saskpower customer invests in LED light bulbs, energy-saving appliances or simply changes behaviour to reduce electricity usage, should they be penalized by paying higher fees? Seems this policy change leans more toward irresponsible consumption than rewarding responsible energy use.
Finally, I am a supporter of the Sask. Party. I am not a rampant environmentalist. However, I do believe the science regarding the impact of greenhouse gases on the climate is indisputable. “Climate
change deniers” and “the radical aspects of the environmental movement” are creating confusion debating extreme unsubstantiated views on the subject. As is the norm, the best solutions will be found in the rational middle ground.
Fossil fuels have many uses, and the industries will continue into the future. However, the world is rapidly transforming to a renewable-energy-based economy. I’d rather Saskatchewan be on the leading edge of this trend. Failing to recognize that change will harm our local economy and workforce. I hope the policy will be reconsidered. Bob Bellamy, Moose Jaw