The Nevada Legislature created the current version of the Solar Energy Systems Incentive Program (Solar Program) during the 2007 legislative session to encourage the development of renewable energy. The Solar Program requires public utilities that supply electricity in Nevada to develop and administer programs that offer rebates to customers who install qualifying solar energy systems on their property.
- The Solar Program is defined by the Legislature in NRS 701B.010 - 701B.280.
- The PUCN regulates the Solar Program through regulations adopted in NAC 701B.050 - 701B.185 and through examining the utilities' annual plan filings.
- The Solar Program is subject to changes made by the Nevada Legislature and the PUCN.
- The Solar Program has three categories of participation: 1) school property, 2) public and other property, and 3) private residential and small business property.
- The dollar amounts of incentive payments available to program participants, based on the categories listed above, are defined in NAC 701B.150. Available incentives decline in value over time.
- The Solar Program is funded by ratepayers through the Renewable Energy Program (REP) charge on monthly bills.
- Customers who receive an incentive payment for a qualifying solar system must assign ownership of the portfolio energy credits (PECs) generated by the system to the electric utility administering the incentive program.
- For information about participating in a solar program, visit NV Energy's website for details about its SolarGenerations program.