Iowa Renters: How Solar Power Credits Can Lower Your Utility Bills

For renters in Iowa, utility costs can be a significant part of your monthly expenses. As more properties introduce solar power, you may wonder if you can benefit from solar power credits as a tenant. This article will help you understand how solar credits work for renters, the laws in Iowa, and how to ensure any savings are fairly passed on to you.

Understanding Solar Power Credits and How They Affect Renters

Solar power credits, also known as net metering credits, allow utility customers who generate renewable energy (such as solar panels on a building) to send excess electricity back to the grid. The credits earned reduce the utility bills of whoever is on the account. For renters, whether you benefit from solar power depends on your lease, billing arrangement, and whether the landlord passes on those savings.

How Solar Credits Typically Work in Multi-Unit Buildings

In Iowa, if your landlord owns the solar panels and is the utility account holder, any savings from solar credits usually go to them. However, if you pay your own electric bill and your unit is individually metered, you may be eligible for net metering credits directly from your utility provider.

• If you pay utilities directly: Check if your landlord opted you into net metering with the utility.
• If utilities are included in rent: Discuss with your landlord whether solar savings lower the utility portion of your rent.

For more, see the Iowa Utilities Board, which regulates utility billing and net metering.

Your Rights and Iowa Rental Laws Regarding Utilities

Iowa law requires landlords to clearly state in the lease who pays for utilities, including any arrangements about renewable energy credits or solar installations. If your landlord promises utility savings from solar, they must be transparent about how those savings are shared.

The primary law for Iowa tenants and landlords is the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562A).^[1]

• Landlords must provide a written accounting if you request a breakdown of utility charges (Iowa Code 562A.13).
• Leases must specify who is responsible for paying utilities and any arrangements involving utility credits.

Official Tribunals for Rental Disputes in Iowa

Most rental utility disputes in Iowa are settled in small claims court, supervised by the Iowa Judicial Branch. For generalized complaints, you can also contact the Iowa Utilities Board.

What Forms Might Iowa Renters Need for Utility/Solar Issues?

• Utility Complaint Form (Iowa Utilities Board) – Use this if you're having issues with utility billing or believe you aren't receiving promised solar credits. Find the online form and instructions at the Iowa Utilities Board Complaint Portal.
• Request for Written Accounting – While Iowa doesn't have a standard form number, you may request a written accounting of utility charges in writing to your landlord, citing Iowa Code 562A.13.

For example, if you believe you are not receiving the correct solar credit on your utility bill and your lease states those savings should be passed on, you can submit a written request to your landlord for a detailed account or file an official complaint with the Iowa Utilities Board.

Action Steps: If You Think You're Missing Solar Credits

• Check your lease for any mention of solar credits or utility payment responsibilities.
• Request a written accounting from your landlord if utility costs or credits are unclear.
• If not resolved, file a formal complaint via the Iowa Utilities Board online portal.
• If a lease dispute remains, you may file a claim in small claims court through the Iowa Judicial Branch court forms page.

Tip: Always keep copies of your lease, utility bills, and written communications with your landlord.

FAQ: Solar Power Credits and Iowa Renters

1. Can renters in Iowa get solar power credits on their own utility bill?
   Usually, only if your unit is individually metered and you are the account holder with the utility company. Otherwise, credits typically go to the landlord.
2. What should I do if my lease promises solar savings but I'm not seeing a discount?
   Start by requesting a detailed utility cost breakdown from your landlord. If there's no resolution, file a complaint with the Iowa Utilities Board.
3. Does my landlord have to pass solar credit savings on to me?
   Only if your lease specifically states this. Otherwise, Iowa law does not require landlords to share solar savings if they pay the bills.
4. Where can I file a complaint about utility billing in Iowa?
   Complaints can be filed directly with the Iowa Utilities Board using their online utility complaint portal.
5. What law protects Iowa renters regarding utilities and billing?
   The main law is the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562A).

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Solar power credits can help renters save, but only if your lease and utility setup allow it.
• Always review your lease for utility and solar credit terms.
• Official resources like the Iowa Utilities Board can help resolve billing issues.

Stay proactive by checking your lease and keeping records of all utility bills and correspondence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Iowa Utilities Board: Utility Billing Complaints and Info
• Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562A)
• Iowa Judicial Branch: Small Claims and Tenant Resources
• Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection Division: Tenant Complaints

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1. Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law: Full text (Iowa Code Chapter 562A)
2. Iowa Utilities Board (IUB): Official website, Complaint portal
3. Iowa Judicial Branch: Tribunal for rental disputes

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