Letter: Beat electric inflation

In a recent PREP Talk (Ledger-Transcript July 23), Michael Nadeau warned that electric prices are likely to rise – not because electric generation will become more expensive, but because Eversource plans to increase the cost of delivering that electricity. Indeed, NH Consumer Advocate Don Kreis (In Depth NH June 13) predicts that there will be a net distribution charge increase of 42% for everyone in Eversource service territory, implemented in stages over the next few years.

Fortunately, those of us lucky enough to have good sunlight on our properties can do more than beat this inflation; we can come out ahead. We can use solar panels to generate our own electricity. During those times when we’re generating less than we’re using, 100% of the electricity that we’re generating will stay “behind the meter.” It won’t travel over Eversource wires and will therefore be exempt from delivery charges, which include long-distance transmission, local distribution charges and a handful of other charges.

When we generate more electricity than we can use, the excess can be delivered to the local distribution grid without having been transmitted long-distance from somewhere else. Eversource will credit us full value for the electricity and the avoided transmission, and 25% of the distribution costs. In other words, every bit of electricity that we generate with our own solar panels will generate economic value for us and insulate us from rising distribution rates.

I recommend that readers who wish to beat electric inflation by installing solar panels consult with a reputable solar installer regarding optimum system sizing and optimum ways of paying for it. No-interest bank loans are available, and the federal government offers tax credits.

Joel Huberman

Peterborough