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Millville approves letters supporting three community solar sites; some commissioners raise concerns about rate impacts
Summary
The commission authorized the mayor to sign letters supporting Equals Energy LLC applications for three community solar rooftop projects in Millville; the company said the sites would generate about 5 megawatts in total.
The Millville City Commission voted unanimously on April 1 to authorize the mayor to sign letters of support for Equals Energy LLC to participate in the state community solar program at three Millville locations: 1001 North Tenth Street, 902 Reese Road and 401 South Third Street. City staff recorded the motion and the roll call returned all affirmative votes.
Why it matters: Equals Energy told the commission the three rooftops combined would generate roughly 5 megawatts of power under preliminary designs and that participation in community solar can provide discounts to subscribers, including low- and moderate-income customers who otherwise cannot host panels at home. Commissioners said they want clearer information about whether and how the program affects rates for nonparticipating customers before approving more letters in the future.
What was said: Steve Volkert, director of solar development for Equals Energy, spoke during public comment and explained the company’s application timeline and benefits. Volkert said the company’s preliminary design for the three rooftop sites would generate about 5 megawatts and that, “one megawatt of power…equals about 200 homes that we can provide [discounts] for,” describing the program’s subscriber model. He also said the municipal letters of support are required for the company’s June 1 application to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
Commissioner concerns and follow-up: Commissioner Joe Sui and others warned the commission about potential indirect effects and asked staff to provide a clearer explanation at a future meeting of how the community-solar credits interact with utility billing and whether costs are shifted to nonparticipants. The mayor asked staff to prepare additional information for the next time such letters are considered.
Process and next steps: The motion authorizes the mayor to sign letters of support; the applications still require the BPU review and any required utility approvals. Volkert and Equals Energy indicated they will proceed with permits and the BPU application once municipal support letters are provided.
