“Nuns in New Orleans Seek Fair Compensation for Solar Garden Power Generation”

“Nuns in New Orleans Seek Fair Compensation for Solar Garden Power Generation”

Time Stamp: April 5, 2023 11:25 AM
Source Node: 2569707

In New Orleans, a group of nuns is seeking fair compensation for their solar garden power generation. The nuns, who belong to the Sisters of St. Joseph, have been operating a solar garden since 2018. The solar garden is a 1.3-megawatt array that generates enough electricity to power 200 homes. The nuns sell the electricity they generate to the local utility company, Entergy New Orleans.

However, the nuns are not receiving fair compensation for their solar power generation. They are paid only the wholesale rate for the electricity they generate, which is significantly lower than the retail rate that Entergy charges its customers. This means that the nuns are not receiving the full value of the electricity they generate.

The nuns argue that they should be paid the retail rate for their solar power generation, as they are providing a valuable service to the community. They are generating clean energy that helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. They are also providing a reliable source of electricity that can help to stabilize the grid during times of high demand.

The nuns have filed a complaint with the Louisiana Public Service Commission, arguing that Entergy should be required to pay them the retail rate for their solar power generation. They are also seeking to be compensated for the excess electricity they generate that is not used by Entergy.

The case has attracted attention from environmental groups and advocates for renewable energy. They argue that the nuns are being unfairly compensated for their solar power generation and that this is a barrier to the growth of renewable energy in Louisiana.

The case also highlights the need for policies that support the growth of renewable energy. In many states, utilities are required to pay customers who generate excess electricity from solar panels or other renewable sources the retail rate for their electricity. This policy, known as net metering, helps to incentivize the growth of renewable energy by ensuring that customers receive fair compensation for the electricity they generate.

In conclusion, the nuns in New Orleans are seeking fair compensation for their solar garden power generation. They argue that they should be paid the retail rate for their electricity, as they are providing a valuable service to the community. The case highlights the need for policies that support the growth of renewable energy and ensure that customers receive fair compensation for the electricity they generate.