Rocky Mountain Power's Solar Programs
As a Utah homeowner considering solar energy in 2025, it's essential to understand the specific costs and credits associated with Rocky Mountain Power's (RMP) solar programs. This guide provides detailed financial information to help you make an informed decision.
Subscriber Solar Program
The Subscriber Solar Program allows customers to benefit from solar energy without installing personal solar panels. Participants can subscribe to solar power generated from a 20-megawatt solar plant in Millard County, Utah.
Subscriptions are available in 200-kilowatt-hour (kWh) blocks or as full coverage, where all your kWh usage is billed at the Subscriber Solar rate. Subscriptions can be retained for up to 20 years and are transferable within Utah.
Cost Structure:
Solar Generation Charge: 7.7250 cents per kWh.
Solar Delivery Charge: 4.1876 cents per kWh.
For a 200 kWh block, the total cost would be:
Generation Cost: 200 kWh × $0.07725 = $15.45
Delivery Cost: 200 kWh × $0.041876 = $8.38
Total Monthly Cost per Block: $15.45 (Generation) + $8.38 (Delivery) = $23.83
If you opt for full coverage, all your electricity usage will be billed at the Subscriber Solar rate. For example, if your monthly usage is 800 kWh:
Generation Cost: 800 kWh × $0.07725 = $61.80
Delivery Cost: 800 kWh × $0.041876 = $33.50
Total Monthly Cost: $61.80 (Generation) + $33.50 (Delivery) = $95.30
It's important to note that while the generation rate is fixed, transmission and distribution costs remain subject to future rate changes.
Blue Sky Renewable Energy Program
The Blue Sky program enables customers to support renewable energy development in the region. For as little as $1.95 per month, participants can purchase 100 kWh blocks of renewable energy, sourced from 73% wind and 27% solar. Funds from this program also support community-based renewable energy projects.
Cost Structure:
Per 100 kWh Block: $1.95 per month
For example, if you choose to support 500 kWh of renewable energy per month:
Total Monthly Cost: 5 blocks × $1.95 = $9.75
This cost is in addition to your regular electricity bill and does not directly offset your energy usage.
Net Metering and Customer Generation
For homeowners interested in installing their own solar panels, Rocky Mountain Power offers a net metering program that allows customers to offset their electricity usage with the energy generated by their systems. Understanding the specifics of this program is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your solar investment.
Key Features:
System Capacity Limits: Residential systems can be up to 25 kilowatts (kW), while non-residential systems can be up to 2 megawatts (MW).
Billing and Credits: Excess generation is credited to future bills within the annual period. At the end of the annualized billing period, any remaining credits expire, and their value is applied to RMP’s low-income bill assistance program.
Rate Structure: Net-metered customers remain within their existing customer class, and their rate structure will only change when changes apply to the entire rate class.
Cost and Compensation:
Energy Charges: As of July 1, 2024, RMP's standard residential energy charges are:
June through September:
First 400 kWh: 9.0279 cents per kWh
Additional kWh: 11.7210 cents per kWh
October through May:
First 400 kWh: 7.9893 cents per kWh
Additional kWh: 10.3725 cents per kWh
Export Credit Rate: For energy exported back to the grid, customers receive credits at the following rates:
June through September: 5.636 cents per kWh
October through May: 4.745 cents per kWh
Example Calculation:
If your solar system generates 1,000 kWh in a month, and your household consumes 800 kWh during the same period:
Self-Consumed Energy: 800 kWh (offsetting your usage)
Excess Energy Exported to Grid: 200 kWh
Credit Earned (June through September): 200 kWh × $0.05636 = $11.27
This credit will be applied to your future bills within the annual period.
Considerations:
Policy Changes: Net metering policies can change over time. Staying informed about current regulations and potential future changes is essential.
Example ROI Calculation:
Assuming a 6 kW solar system producing 8,000 kWh per year, with a total installation cost of $15,000, and utilizing the 30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC):
Cost after ITC: $15,000 - ($15,000 × 30%) = $10,500
Annual Electricity Savings (Self-Consumed):
If you consume 7,000 kWh per year, and the average rate is $0.10/kWh, your annual savings = $700/year
Annual Export Credit Earnings (1,000 kWh exported at $0.05/kWh): $50/year
Total Annual Savings: $750/year
Estimated Payback Period: $10,500 ÷ $750 = 14 years
Payback can be shorter if electricity rates rise or if consumption patterns optimize self-use.
Steps to Apply for Solar with Rocky Mountain Power
If you decide to install solar and connect to the grid under Rocky Mountain Power's net metering policy, here’s what the process looks like:
1. Assess Your Energy Needs
Review your past 12 months of electricity usage (found on your RMP bill).
Identify peak consumption months and evaluate how much solar you’ll need.
2. Consult with a Certified Solar Installer
Work with an experienced Utah-based solar company (like Mobius Solar!) to determine system size, battery options, and installation costs.
Discuss options like DC-coupled vs. AC-coupled storage, especially if you want battery backup.
3. Submit an Interconnection Application
Your installer will submit an Interconnection Agreement to Rocky Mountain Power.
You’ll need to provide technical details of your system (solar panel specs, inverter type, battery storage, etc.).
Application fee varies, but it's typically $75 - $150 depending on system size.
4. System Installation and Inspection
Installation time can range from 2 weeks to 2 months, depending on permitting and equipment availability.
Your system will require local government inspection before RMP can approve the final connection.
5. Rocky Mountain Power Approval & Meter Installation
Once inspected, RMP will install a bidirectional meter that measures your exported and imported energy.
Approval can take 1-3 weeks after inspection.
6. System Activation & Net Metering Enrollment
After final approval, your system is turned on and net metering credits start appearing on your bill.
Future of Solar with Rocky Mountain Power
Utah's solar energy policies are evolving, and it’s important to stay informed about upcoming changes. Key factors to watch in 2025 and beyond:
Export Credit Rate Adjustments:
Rocky Mountain Power’s export credit rate is currently 5.636¢ per kWh (summer) and 4.745¢ per kWh (winter).
These rates may be subject to change based on Public Service Commission rulings.
Time-of-Use (TOU) Rate Programs:
Customers may see new time-based pricing models in the future, making battery storage more valuable to avoid peak rates.
Battery Storage Incentives:
While Rocky Mountain Power does not currently offer storage incentives, future programs may encourage home battery adoption for grid stabilization.
Conclusion: Is Solar Worth It with Rocky Mountain Power?
Probably Not—but it depends on your energy goals. If you want:
Lower electricity bills with predictable costs → Subscriber Solar is a simple choice.
Maximized savings & self-sufficiency → Installing a solar system with net metering is best.
Energy independence & peak rate optimization → Adding battery storage makes sense.
Whether you choose solar panels, net metering, or an alternative program, understanding the real costs, credits, and incentives can help you make the smartest decision. Contact Mobius Solar today for a customized evaluation of your solar potential!
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