Los Angeles Utility Threatens to Cut Solar Subsidies

The nations largest municipal water utility - The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP) budgeted $30 Million for solar panel rebates this year. Which is a lot of money everyone can agree. But, Los Angeles area homeowners and businesses have applied for $70 Million in solar rebates. The DWP is considering cutting the subsidies by approximately a third which would raise the price of solar installations.

Solar Panel Installers, homeowners and businesses are unhappy about this proposed reduction in rebates. If passed, much larger down payments would be required for new rooftop panel installations. Cuts in rebates would take effect on Jan. 1st.

Then, to add to the debate, is an ongoing argument between city planners and environmentalists. Environmentalists believe rooftop panel installations are more efficient than large industrial solar plants. City planners have the opposite view saying it will be easier to manage electricity distribution using large-scale solar plants.

Arguments and opinions regarding these subsidies will be considered over the next three weeks by the Los Angles City Council.

Ten or fifteen years ago most people would never have thought that an argument like this would be taking place. Few if any would've even considered solar power industrial plants to be a topic to be discussed by the Los Angeles City Council. Rapid advances in technology have changed the way people view how they receive and or produce their electricity.

The sun's rays belong to everyone. A healthy ongoing debate will bring up questions, theories and answers that can lead to a better understanding and use of solar power.

More details at the L.A. Times.