In response to “Solar users feel burned” (Union-Tribune, Business section, Oct. 28): Approval of SDG&E’s proposed network use charge would unfairly increase the energy bills for customers who have installed local solar.

Local rooftop solar systems have enhanced the economy and reduced our dependence on fossil fuels. But SDG&E’s active discouragement of local solar development is hampering the green economy that is our hope for the future. Solar installation companies, many of which are small businesses, provide local jobs. The use of solar panels manufactured in San Diego County also generates local jobs and reduces the carbon footprint of long-distance transportation. Rooftop solar produces power during daytime peaks, allowing users who cannot decrease essential power needs to continue operations. That includes hospitals, schools, utilities, and industrial facilities which are also installing solar to reduce their energy use.
But now, under the guise of a “sustainable” rate structure, SDG&E is proposing charge changes that clearly penalize solar users. According to the UT article, the proposed network use charge has been identified by the California Center for Sustainable Energy as likely to have a chilling effect on the small-scale solar marketplace. The proposal is being watched by Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas and Electric, two other major investor-owned utilities that are also no fans of decentralized power production by entities outside of their control. Approval of SDG&E’s proposed network use charge could set a devastating trend throughout California.

Diversified power production from clean, renewable sources is our hope for the future. It’s time for SDG&E to support, not hinder, local solar.

Steve and Katherine Hon
North Park