How Louisiana Renters Can Benefit from Solar Power Credits

With electricity rates on the rise, many renters in Louisiana are searching for ways to lower utility bills. Increasingly, landlords are installing solar panels on rental properties, allowing tenants the potential to benefit from solar power credits. If you're a renter, understanding how these credits work, your legal rights, and where to find official Louisiana resources can help you save money and avoid disputes.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Renters

Solar power credits, commonly known as "net metering credits" in Louisiana, allow a utility customer to earn a bill credit when solar panels generate excess electricity and send it back to the grid. For many homeowners, these credits directly reduce their monthly utility charge. But what about renters living in a property with solar panels?

• Net Metering Availability: In Louisiana, net metering is regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC), but eligibility and participation depend on your utility provider and what your lease says.
• Lease Terms: Renters usually only benefit from solar credits if the lease clearly states they will receive a portion of these savings or if utilities are sub-metered and billed separately.
• Landlord Discretion: Landlords are not legally required to share solar credit savings unless agreed to in writing.

What Louisiana Law Says About Utilities and Tenant Rights

The Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. Rev. Stat. §§ 9:3251–9:3261) governs most rental agreements in the state, including utility billing and service disputes. This law does not specifically require landlords to share solar credit savings with tenants. However, landlords must provide clear information on how utility charges are calculated and what, if any, solar credits are passed along.

• Tenants have the right to receive a lease that outlines who pays for utilities and how any bills or credits are shared.
• If you believe you're entitled to solar savings based on your lease, you can request a utility billing statement from your landlord.

Official Forms and Complaint Procedures

If you encounter a dispute over solar credits or utility billing, start with these resources:

• Louisiana Residential Lease Complaint Form (no statewide number):
  When to use: If your landlord refuses to provide billing information or clarification about solar credits after you request it in writing.
  How to use: Submit a formal written complaint to your landlord. If unresolved, file with your local parish housing authority. Some parishes offer specific forms—check the Louisiana Housing Corporation Renters Resources for parish contacts and paperwork requirements.
• Louisiana Public Service Commission Utility Complaint Form:
  When to use: If your utility bill does not reflect agreed-upon solar credits, or you suspect billing errors after local attempts to resolve the issue.
  How to use: Complete the official online complaint form on the Louisiana Public Service Commission website by describing your concern and submitting supporting utility bills and lease documents.

Louisiana Public Service Commission: The Tenant-Energy Tribunal

For issues concerning utility billing or net metering disputes statewide, the Louisiana Public Service Commission is the primary authority. They handle complaints, mediate disputes, and enforce energy regulations affecting renters and landlords alike in Louisiana.

How Renters Can Maximize Solar Credit Savings

While the law does not guarantee renters access to solar power credits, you can take steps to increase your chances of benefiting:

• Negotiate clear lease terms with your landlord regarding solar credits and bill reductions.
• Ask for a copy of the utility billing statement or solar credit calculation each month.
• If utilities are included in your rent, discuss whether solar credits can offset rental increases or justify lower rent.
• If you suspect your lease terms are not being honored, know that you can pursue a complaint with your local housing authority or the Louisiana Public Service Commission.

Proactively communicating with your landlord and understanding your lease are essential first steps.

FAQ: Solar Power Credits and Tenant Rights in Louisiana

1. Do I automatically get solar power credits as a renter in Louisiana?
   No, renters do not automatically receive solar credits unless it is specified in the lease or utility billing arrangement. It must be negotiated and agreed to in writing.
2. What if my landlord promises solar savings but doesn't reduce my bill?
   If your landlord breaches the lease or billing agreement, start by asking for clarification in writing. If not resolved, file a complaint with your parish housing authority or use the LPSC Utility Complaint Form.
3. Can my landlord raise rent due to installed solar panels?
   Your landlord can only raise rent according to your lease renewal terms and must give proper notice, but solar panels alone do not give special rights to increase rent in Louisiana.
4. Who do I contact for utility bill disputes in Louisiana?
   Contact your local parish housing authority first, then the Louisiana Public Service Commission if issues persist.

Conclusion: What Louisiana Renters Should Remember

• Solar power credits are not automatically passed on to renters—always check your lease for specifics.
• Louisiana law requires transparency in utility billing, but not in sharing solar savings unless written in a lease.
• If you believe your rights are being overlooked, local housing agencies and state commissions can help resolve disputes.

Staying informed and communicating clearly will help you maximize any potential savings from solar energy in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Housing Corporation – Renter Resources for forms, complaint contacts, and local assistance.
• Louisiana Public Service Commission – Utility Complaint Portal
• Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. Rev. Stat. §§ 9:3251–9:3261)
• Your parish housing authority or legal aid service for questions about rental laws and lease disputes.

---

1. Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. Rev. Stat. §§ 9:3251–9:3261)
2. Louisiana Public Service Commission
3. LPSC Utility Complaint Procedures
4. Louisiana Housing Corporation

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations