Resolution - Net-metering — File 193088

May 10 2012 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, The City of Somerville is always looking to promote the use of clean energy; and WHEREAS, Everyday of the year, enough sun shines down on Massachusetts to power the state multiple times over with solar energy; and WHEREAS, In 2008, Massachusetts adopted net-metering policies as a means of harnessing the state’s vast solar potential and to expand solar development; and WHEREAS, Net-metering allows consumers to sell excess electricity produced via solar panels back to the electricity grid for a profit. By making it more affordable to install solar panels on homes, businesses and government buildings, Massachusetts’ net-metering program has encouraged renewable energy investment and has created new clean energy jobs; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Board of Aldermen of the City of Somerville supports increasing the cap set on the Massachusetts net-metering program; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Board of Aldermen of the City of Somerville supports increasing the cap to 3 percent aggregate capacity for net metering facilities that are not net metering facilities of a municipality or other governmental entity and 3 percent aggregate capacity for net metering facilities that are net metering facilities of a municipality or other governmental entity.