Solar Power Credits and Tenant Utility Savings in New Hampshire

For renters in New Hampshire, saving money on utility bills is always a top concern. With more apartment buildings and rental properties adopting solar energy, you may be wondering: Can you as a tenant benefit from solar power credits? This guide explains how solar credits work, your legal rights, and actions you can take to ensure fair utility billing in New Hampshire.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Renters

Solar power credits, often called "net metering credits" or "solar credits," are part of a program that allows building owners to offset electricity costs—and in some cases, pass those savings to renters. In New Hampshire, renters may benefit directly or indirectly if their landlord participates in solar programs through utility billing arrangements.

How Net Metering and Solar Credits Work

• Solar panels generate electricity for your building.
• Excess electricity goes back to the grid, earning credits with the utility company.
• The credits are typically applied to the electric bill of the account owner (landlord or property manager).
• For multi-unit dwellings, the landlord may share credits with tenants or use credits to reduce overall building utility costs.

Legally, landlords aren't required to pass on solar savings unless specified in your lease or agreed separately. However, utilities and recent state incentives are making it easier for renters to benefit from shared or "community" solar projects. Find details on New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission consumer programs.

Utility Billing: Your Rights as a Renter

Whether you pay utilities directly to the provider or reimburse your landlord, you have a right to clear, fair billing. In New Hampshire, leases should state:

• Who pays for which utilities
• How utility charges are calculated (especially if not billed directly by your provider)
• Any arrangements for benefiting from solar or other energy credits

According to the New Hampshire Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RSA 540-A), landlords must not "willfully or negligently fail to provide...heat, running water, hot water, electric, gas, or other utility service" if your lease requires them to do so.^[1]

When Solar Credits Should Be Passed to Renters

• If your lease says you pay for electricity, but the landlord receives credits, clarify how this affects your bills.
• If your building uses "master-metered" billing (one meter for all units), the landlord might be required to show how charges and credits are shared.
• Ask to see a breakdown or explanation of any utility charges related to solar credits if you feel overcharged or confused.

Action Steps: Addressing Utility or Solar Credit Concerns

• First, review your lease or rental agreement for utility and solar power billing details.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request clarification if you believe credits are not being applied fairly.
• If you can’t resolve it directly, file a complaint with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

Relevant Official Form: Utility Complaint Form

• Form Name: Public Utilities Commission Consumer Complaint Form
• When to use: If you have an unresolved issue about utility meter billing, solar credits, or denial of service.
• How renters use it: For example, a renter feels solar credits are not being distributed fairly among tenants. Fill out the form and submit to the PUC.
• Access the Consumer Complaint Form

The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission is the state board handling utility disputes, including those about electric credits for renters. Learn more and contact the commission at their official website.

FAQ: Solar Credits and Utility Billing for New Hampshire Renters

1. Can my landlord keep all the solar credits for themselves?
   Unless your lease requires the landlord to pass credits to you, there’s no legal obligation. It depends on your agreement.
2. How can I tell if solar credits are reducing my bill?
   Ask your landlord or property manager for a breakdown of how solar credits affect your charges; compare previous bills if possible.
3. What do I do if I am overcharged for electricity?
   Request detailed billing records. If not resolved, file a complaint using the New Hampshire PUC Consumer Complaint Form.
4. Are there programs to help renters join community solar?
   Yes, New Hampshire supports community solar projects. Check eligibility and participation at the PUC Consumer Programs page.
5. Who enforces rules about utility billing and solar credits for renters?
   The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) handles these matters. Visit the official PUC website for more.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Solar credits may reduce your building’s utility costs, but sharing with renters depends on your lease and arrangements.
• Always request clear, itemized billing, and review your lease terms about utilities.
• If you suspect unfair charges, use the PUC Consumer Complaint Form for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission: Consumer Information – Guidance on utility billing and credits
• New Hampshire DOJ: Tenant-Landlord Rights and Resources
• NH Legal Aid: Renters’ Housing Assistance

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1. See New Hampshire Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RSA 540-A)
2. New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) – official board for utility billing disputes
3. New Hampshire PUC Consumer Complaint Form

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