The proposal requires solar customers to pay a one-time interconnection fee, contribute more to public programs (an increase in 'nonbypassable charges' or NBCs), and transition onto time-of-use rates, which will help facilitate greater use of renewable energy in the state. If accepted, the commission would revisit its decision in 2019 after rate changes and grid modernization efforts run their course.

This re-evaluation will allow technology and new regulatory structures to evolve to realize even greater customer and grid benefits from solar.In response to the commission’s proposed decision, utilities are trying to circumvent the state’s nearly two-year-long regulatory deliberations by putting forward an unjustified and procedurally improper last-minute proposal.