Solar Industry Secures Win in Ameren Effort to Block Net Metering in Illinois

CHICAGO and WASHINGTON, D.C. — Over the past few months the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) worked alongside a coalition of solar and environmental groups to argue against Ameren’s attempt to end net metering in Southern and Central Illinois. Yesterday the Illinois Commerce Commission sided with the solar industry and effectively saved net metering for thousands of current and future solar customers in Illinois.

Following is a statement from Nakhia Morrissette, central region director and counsel for SEIA:

“We are grateful to the Illinois Commerce Commission for following through on our state’s commitment to creating jobs, protecting consumers and expanding clean energy. The Illinois solar market has had a tumultuous year as a result of the state’s worsening financial cliff. Ameren’s attempt to dismantle net metering would have effectively stifled a solar market that’s already down, adding even more uncertainty for businesses in the region. 

“The Commission’s decision will ensure that solar customers are fairly compensated for the power they produce and value they bring to our electricity grid for years to come. We commend the Commission for seeing through this unlawful effort to devalue solar. This is ultimately a victory for consumers and independent clean energy businesses.”

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About SEIA®: 

The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 20% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is a national trade association building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contact: 

Jen Bristol, SEIA’s Director of Communications, jbristol@seia.org, (202) 556-2886