NV Energy must keep its promises

By James Dale Collier, Henderson

Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015 | 2 a.m.

I feel like I am getting swindled. President Barack Obama just attended a global climate change conference where nearly 200 nations agreed to reduce emissions and explore clean energy alternatives. Congress recently extended a solar taxcredits program to encourage more rooftop solar installations. Yet, NV Energy is fighting against its customers with their draconian proposals to decimate the solar power industry in Nevada.

Why did Gov. Brian Sandoval convene a special session of the Legislature with the sole intention of giving millions of taxpayer-subsidized tax credits and financial incentives to electric car manufacturer Faraday, just like he did for Tesla? I support both of these innovative companies, but why isn’t our governor supporting his constituents with similar incentives for rooftop solar systems?

I agree with Judy Triechel’s opinion(“NV Energy would be wise to evolve, not punish customers,” Las Vegas Sun, Dec. 4) that NV Energy should evolve with the times, embrace new technologies and encourage their customers to invest in renewable energy. NV Energy is investing millions of ratepayer dollars to build new solar power plants. They should spend that money on installing rooftop solar systems on buildings and houses in Nevada.

When I was encouraged by the federal government and NV Energy to invest more than $48,000 in my rooftop solar system, I refinanced my house to pay for it since the decision was a major factor in my future retirement plans. I felt great about doing my part to save the environment and saving money on my future power bills. The energy my neighbors get to use during peak production times goes to them without any upfront investment on their part. NV Energy and I signed a contract. I have lived up to the terms of that contract. If they renege on the terms of our contract, all solar customers should initiate a class-acton lawsuit against the PUC, Sandoval, NV Energy, Berkshire Hathaway and Warren Buffett. A deal is a deal!