Below is a reproduction of an email we sent out in support of GASP and SELC’s challenge to Alabama Power’s unjust solar tax.
Friends and members,
It’s just not right.
Regular, hardworking Alabamians who generate their own solar electricity are being singled out by Alabama Power and the Alabama Public Service Commission. That’s why like-minded people from across the state are joining forces and fighting back.
OK, so if you haven’t heard the news, you might be a bit confused right about now. Here’s the skinny.
Back in 2012, the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) approved a fixed fee for Alabama Power customers who generate their own electricity. That fee, or really tax, went into effect the following year. Basically, any residential customers who generate solar power have to pay Alabama Power $5 per kilowatt PER MONTH just for the privilege.
Like we said, it’s not right. But it is unreasonable, unjust, discriminatory, and contrary to the public interest.
If those words have a nice ring to them, that’s great! On Thursday, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) and GASP filed a formal complaint with the APSC over that ridiculously unfair fee. Some of those words we just used to describe the fee are in there. Pretty cool, right?
(If you missed it, AL.com’s Dennis Pillion has the story right here.)
Now that you know, we’re asking everyone to please take a look today. Brush up on the policy. Be prepared to talk about this with your friends and family. Spread the word! And while you’re at it, visit the APSC website and contact your commissioners (or even the Commission’s President).
Don’t know who to contact? Start here!
We all know that solar power is great. It’s clean. It’s renewable. And, hey, it’ll even save you money on your utility bill.
Well, that’s all true unless you’re an Alabama Power customer. So now it’s time we changed that.
Shine on,
-Daniel
