I am greatly disappointed in both Delaware Electric Cooperative and elected officials in our great State of Delaware acting to impose and pass a 75% increase in service charges for solar customers.
Any necessary rate increase that covers costs to electrical customers with or without alternative energy ability should not exceed rates of inflation or increased maintenance and service. Shame on DEC and shame on political so-called representatives for such an egregious step. If there was a public hearing regarding this change, such a hearing was not adequately announced.
Customers who invest in solar power contribute to Delaware’s power supply. They have answered the call to help contribute alternative energy. These same customers should not be penalized by a 75% increase in connection charges. While it is true that solar panel customers do see lower electrical bills most of the year, their true break-even will take many years to realize. Solar customers’ monthly total cost exceeds their regular bill in paying for the panels and inverters until a break-even period lasting six to 10 years, more if they rent panels. Zeroing out banking of power once annually is not an issue, as this has been the practice.
Why then should anyone invest in solar when they are penalized for their part in helping our nation’s mandate to reduce fossil fuel use? Seems hypocritical, doesn’t it?
We’ve seen this all before when providers or governments boast that there wasn’t a rate (or tax) increase while correspondently raising fees. Maybe it is all about trying to fool all the people all the time. Well, that doesn’t really happen, does it? These same people have a vote; but not, however, when it comes to rate and fee increases approved by so-called elected representatives.
I ask, therefore, for (any) common sense to prevail. Roll back this fee increase, as this exceeds any reasonable business decision.
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