Al Wood advocates for solar credit adjustments at Ellensburg utility meeting

The Ellensburg City Council meeting held on May 21, 2025, addressed several key issues, primarily focusing on solar energy initiatives and budget priorities.

The meeting commenced with public comments, where Al Wood, a recent resident of Ellensburg, raised concerns regarding the city's solar energy policies. Wood proposed that the city consider changing the current annual trued-up credit for solar energy from an April schedule to a monthly or quarterly system. He argued that this change would provide more frequent financial relief for low-income and fixed-income residents. Wood also highlighted a gap in the current system, noting that when a home with solar panels is sold mid-year, there is no process in place to credit the new owner or reimburse the previous owner adequately. He shared his experience of receiving credits only for a portion of the year, which he found insufficient.

Additionally, Wood addressed the trued-up credit rate for solar energy storage, stating that Ellensburg's rate of $0.36 per kilowatt hour is lower than rates in other areas, such as Yakima, which pays $0.04. He suggested that increasing this rate could incentivize more residents to invest in solar energy, especially as the city anticipates growing electricity demands.

Following Wood's comments, Sandy Elliott, a resident from East Staten Avenue, cautioned the council about the need to establish clear budget priorities. She emphasized the importance of making informed decisions regarding the allocation of city resources, especially in light of recent discussions about financial management.

The meeting underscored the community's interest in enhancing solar energy policies and the necessity for the city council to prioritize budgetary decisions effectively. As the council continues to navigate these discussions, the feedback from residents like Wood and Elliott will play a crucial role in shaping future initiatives.