Nebraska Renters: Understanding Solar Power Credits and Utility Savings

As utility costs rise across Nebraska, many renters are exploring ways to save on energy bills—especially through solar power credits. While solar energy can generate savings, understanding your rights and opportunities as a tenant is essential. This article explains what solar power credits mean for renters in Nebraska, the state laws involved, how these credits appear on utility bills, and what action you can take if you have concerns about billing or landlord responsibilities.

Solar Power Credits: What Are They and How Do They Work for Renters?

Solar power credits in Nebraska typically refer to financial credits applied to an electricity bill through a process called "net metering." Net metering allows electricity produced by solar panels to offset what you use from the grid—potentially saving you money each month. However, as a renter, whether you benefit depends on your lease terms, the building’s solar setup, and how the landlord handles utility billing.

Key Facts for Nebraska Renters

• Nebraska’s main utility providers, like OPPD and NPPD, offer net metering for qualifying solar installations.
• Net metering credits generally go to the electric account holder. In multi-unit apartments, this is usually the landlord or property manager, not individual renters.
• Some leases may specify if and how solar credits or utility bill savings are shared with tenants.
• There is currently no Nebraska law requiring landlords to pass solar credits or cost savings on to renters.

Your Rights and Utility Billing in Nebraska

Nebraska residential tenancies are governed by the Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Utilities—such as electricity, gas, and water—may be included in rent or billed separately. How solar credits affect your utility costs depends on:

• Who holds the utility account: Credits typically go to the account holder listed with the power company.
• Lease agreements: Check your lease for any mention of renewable energy, billing arrangements, or pass-through credits.
• Submetering rules: Some buildings let each tenant pay for their direct usage, while others split bills across units, potentially including or excluding solar savings.

If You Think Your Utility Bill Is Incorrect

If you believe your bill does not reflect promised solar credits or that you’re being overcharged:

• Start by reviewing your lease and utility billing statements.
• Ask your landlord or property manager to clarify how solar savings are handled.
• If issues remain, you have the right to request a detailed breakdown of your charges and file a formal complaint if necessary.

Relevant Forms & How Renters Can Take Action

Nebraska does not have a specific form dedicated to solar credits or utility dispute resolution for renters, but there are official forms and steps you can take if you believe your landlord is violating your rights regarding utilities or overcharging you for electricity.

• Residential Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form:
  • When and how to use: Use if you feel your landlord has breached a part of your rental agreement regarding utilities, or if you suspect unfair billing and wish to start an official complaint.
  • Example: Your lease guarantees utility savings from solar panels, but your bill shows no reduction and your landlord won’t explain why.
  • Nebraska Attorney General Consumer Complaint Portal
• Request for Utility Billing Records:
  • When and how to use: Although there isn’t a dedicated state form, you may draft a written request to your landlord for a copy of all utility billing records and any solar credits accrued.
  • Example: You ask in writing for this documentation if you wish to check whether discounts or credits have been properly applied to your unit.
  • See more at Nebraska Consumer Protection Division.

Tip: Always communicate in writing and keep a copy of all correspondence regarding utility charges or solar credits for your records.

What Tribunal Handles Nebraska Tenant Complaints?

Nebraska does not have a state-level tenant tribunal. Utility or landlord-tenant complaints are generally managed by local city or county courts, and by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Serious disputes may require filing in Small Claims Court.

FAQ: Solar Power Credits and Tenant Savings in Nebraska

1. Can my landlord keep solar credits, or do I get a share?
   In Nebraska, unless your lease specifies otherwise, landlords are not legally required to pass solar credits on to tenants. Check your rental agreement for any provisions about solar or energy savings.
2. How can I know if I am benefiting from solar power at my rental?
   Ask your landlord/property manager to clarify if your unit is receiving a share of solar-generated credits, and request to see your portion of utility bills if they claim any savings are passed on.
3. What can I do if my landlord overcharges for electricity?
   First, ask for an itemized statement and check your lease agreement for terms. If you suspect unfair practices, file a complaint with the Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
4. Are there laws protecting renters from unfair solar billing?
   There are currently no specific Nebraska laws requiring landlords to share solar credits. General protections come from the Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which requires accurate billing if utilities are paid separately.
5. Who can help if I have more questions about my solar or utility bills?
   Contact the Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, your local legal aid, or a renters’ advocacy group for guidance.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

• Nebraska has no law requiring landlords to pass on solar credits, but you can negotiate this in your lease.
• Always check your rental agreement for utility billing and solar credit details.
• Know your right to request an explanation or file a complaint if you think you’re being overcharged on utilities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division: File complaints or ask about utility billing issues.
• Nebraska Small Claims Court: For formal disputes with landlords.
• Legal Aid of Nebraska: Free or low-cost legal guidance for renters.
• Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Learn your rights under the law.

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1. [1] Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 76-1401 et seq.)

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