What's the value of solar energy?

Solar energy
Solar panels on the fire hall rooftop Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 in Red Wing.
MPR Photo/Jennifer Simonson

Minnesota became the first state to set a so-called "value of solar" tariff with a 3-2 vote Wednesday by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, according to Midwest Energy News.

The purpose is to establish a formula that determines how much utilities must compensate customers who put excess solar power back on the grid.

The debate also focuses on the bigger-picture question of "how much solar power is worth to a utility and its ratepayers, as well as society and the environment," reports Dan Haugen.

Reporter Jeffrey Tomich of EnergyWire says it's a case being watched across the country. He joins The Daily Circuit along with Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman.

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