Modifies provisions for solar energy systems
One of the major impacts of HB846 is the introduction of the 'Net Metering and Easy Connection Act.' This act establishes clearer guidelines for both utilities and customer-generators on the terms and processes related to net metering, which allows customer-generators to receive credits for excess energy produced and sent back to the power grid. It aims to streamline the application process for interconnection, potentially reducing the time and bureaucracy involved in setting up solar energy systems. Additionally, the bill ensures that utilities must comply with specified safety and performance standards, which reinforces consumer protections and promotes reliability within the grid.
House Bill 846 proposes significant changes to existing laws regarding solar energy systems in Missouri. It aims to repeal and replace provisions under sections 386.890 and 442.404 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri with new sections governing the interconnection and net metering processes for renewable energy systems, specifically solar energy installations. The bill is designed to promote the adoption of solar energy by making it easier for customer-generators—those who generate their own electricity from renewable sources—to connect their systems to the grid and receive appropriate credits for the energy they produce.
Despite its intentions to boost renewable energy adoption, HB846 has faced some contention from various stakeholders, particularly homeowners associations. While the bill prohibits certain restrictions on the installation of solar panels, it does allow for reasonable rules concerning their placement. There are concerns among some homeowners associations that this may lead to disputes over aesthetics and property values, causing friction between members of the association and those who wish to install solar systems. Balancing these perspectives will be critical as the bill progresses through the legislative process.