Utah Renters: Solar Power Credits and How to Save on Utilities

With rising utility costs, many renters in Utah are seeking ways to lower their monthly bills. Solar energy is increasingly common, but it’s not always clear how renters benefit from solar power credits, how savings are passed along, or what rights exist under Utah law. This guide explains how solar power credits work for Utah renters, including how to ensure savings and what to watch for in lease agreements.

Understanding Solar Power Credits in Utah

Solar power credits—often called net metering credits—allow property owners to receive bill reductions when their solar system produces more electricity than is used. Utility companies like Rocky Mountain Power credit the surplus energy, reducing the overall electricity bill. But what about renters?

• Landlords generally own the panels: They receive the credits but may choose to pass savings to tenants.
• Utah’s net metering program rules apply to the property owner, not directly to tenants or their individual bills.
• Renters can benefit if their lease or utility agreement clearly states that solar credits or reduced bills are shared.

If your landlord receives solar credits, ask if those savings are reflected in your utility charges or included in your rent, and request documentation for clarity. The Utah Public Service Commission oversees electricity and utility billing issues in the state.

How Savings Can Be Passed to Tenants

Whether or not you receive solar-related savings depends on your rental setup:

• If utilities are included in the rent, the landlord controls how savings are used.
• If you pay utilities directly to the provider and live in a unit with separate metering, check your bill for net metering credits.
• For homes with a single shared meter, ask your landlord to specify (in writing) how savings are calculated and credited to you.

Key Legal Protections for Utah Renters

Utah law does not specifically require landlords to share solar savings, but all utility billing must be accurately disclosed per your rental agreement. The main Utah tenancy law is the Utah Fit Premises Act, which protects renters’ rights to honest billing and habitable housing.^[1]

• By law, landlords must clearly state which utilities tenants must pay and how billing is calculated.
• Disputes about utility charges or solar credits may be brought before the Utah Courts – Landlord Tenant Section.

Requesting Documentation

If you believe you’re not receiving fair credit or have questions, you can formally request utility billing statements. Landlords must respond promptly and transparently.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

Utah does not have a standardized form specifically for solar power credits. However, key forms related to utilities and lease questions include:

• Request for Information (No official form number): Used to ask your landlord for a breakdown of your utility charges. Outline your request in writing and keep a copy. If your landlord refuses, you can use this as evidence if you later file a complaint. See example guidance at Utah Courts – Landlord Tenant How-To.
• Complaint to Utah Public Service Commission: If you have evidence that your electric billing violates state rules, you can file a complaint at the Utah Public Service Commission’s complaint portal.

What to Do If There’s a Dispute

Disagreements about solar savings or utility bills are handled by the Utah Courts or the Public Service Commission, based on the nature of your complaint. It’s important to gather all relevant lease documents and communications before proceeding.

FAQ: Solar Power Credits and Utility Rights for Utah Renters

1. Can my landlord keep all the solar savings, or must they share them with me?
   Utah law does not require landlords to share solar credits with renters unless your lease states otherwise. Check your agreement and discuss directly with your landlord.
2. How can I know if I’m receiving the solar credits on my utility bill?
   Review your monthly utility statement or request an explanation from your landlord. If you pay utilities directly, look for a net metering or solar credit line item.
3. Is there a government form I can use to dispute solar savings with my landlord?
   There is no dedicated form, but you can write a formal Request for Information and use the Public Service Commission complaint form for billing issues.
4. Who regulates utility billing and rental disputes in Utah?
   The Utah Public Service Commission oversees utilities, while the Utah Courts – Landlord Tenant Section handles tenancy-related disputes.
5. Can renters install their own solar panels?
   Usually no, unless your lease allows it and you have the landlord’s written consent. Modifying a rental property requires formal approval.

Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

• Solar power credits are typically controlled by the property owner. Only benefit if your rental agreement includes shared savings.
• Always request clear documentation for any utility savings or charges.
• If you have a billing dispute, you can contact the Utah Public Service Commission or seek legal guidance from the Utah Courts.

Understanding your lease terms and your rights can help you make the most of solar power opportunities and protect you from unfair charges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah Public Service Commission Utility Complaint Form
• Utah Courts – Landlord Tenant Guidance
• Utah Fit Premises Act (Residential Tenancy Law)
• Utah Housing Resources

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1. Utah Fit Premises Act
2. Utah Public Service Commission (utilities regulation)
3. Utah Courts – Landlord Tenant

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