If you live in Nevada, switching to solar energy can offer a multitude of benefits. The Silver State boasts some of the best solar resources in the U.S., has excellent solar incentives for qualifying property owners and solar panels are relatively cheaper. However, before investing in solar panels, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various favorable Nevada solar energy policies.
Nevada Solar Energy Laws
Both the state assembly and senate have passed legislation meant to encourage the adoption of solar power. These laws help to remove some of the hurdles you may face when going solar. The following are some Nevada solar energy laws that could benefit you.
AB 405
Some HOAs have rules that may make it difficult to install residential solar panels or compromise the efficiency of your system. This can include restrictions on the size, number, appearance or location of solar panels.
Assembly Bill 405 (AB 405) prohibits HOAs from restricting the installation of solar panels. In addition, it prevents HOAs from enforcing restrictions that compromise the performance or efficiency of panels. The bill ensures the rights of and provides certain protections for Nevada residents who use renewable energy. AB 405 also reinstated net metering, effectively allowing solar owners to receive credits for any surplus energy they send to the grid.
SB 407
Going solar is a big investment. Although the average solar panel cost in Nevada is lower than the national average, the costs associated with acquiring solar equipment are still beyond reach for many.
Senate Bill 407 (SB 407) established the Nevada Clean Energy Fund (NCEF). NCEF is a nonprofit organization whose mandate is to provide financial and technical assistance to accelerate the uptake of specific clean energy projects. By providing these resources to Nevadans, NCEF plays an important role in increasing access to clean energy opportunities.
SB 146
Rooftop solar panels are increasingly becoming a standard type of energy production in Nevada. The Senate Bill 146 (SB 146) recognizes the role that rooftop solar panels play in the production of clean and renewable energy in the state. This bill requires state utilities to factor in solar energy projects as they plan for future fiscal energy production.
AB 465
As a solar-friendly state, Nevada strives to minimize restrictions so that more citizens adopt clean energy. The Assembly Bill 465 (AB 465) ensures that people without access to rooftop solar systems can embrace solar power. Through a solar access program, the bill seeks to increase the reach of solar power beyond traditional buyers to include low-income households.
Enacted in 2019, AB 465 requires electric utilities to implement an expanded solar access program to certain customers. This allows customers who cannot install solar resources to receive solar energy from a community-based or utility-scale solar resource.
Recent Energy Policy Changes
As solar energy becomes common, some providers are out to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. Some consumers have fallen victim to solar-related scams and deceptions involving high-pressure sales tactics, unrealistic promises and claims of free solar panels.
Fortunately, Nevada solar energy laws exist to protect consumers and solar companies alike. Passed in 2023, the Senate Bill 293 (SB 293) seeks to prevent deceptive trade practices in the solar industry. The bill contains a raft of provisions that have changed the way solar installation companies operate.
Go Solar With Solar Optimum
Understanding the energy policies is paramount in your process of going solar. Here at Solar Optimum, we make it easy for you to transition to solar energy. In addition to providing premium solar, battery storage and roofing solutions, we also provide all the information you need to make smart and confident decisions. Contact us today to get a free quote on a solar panel system or download Solar Optimum’s Ultimate Guide to Going Solar.
