Duke Energy files to be certified solar lessor

Duke Energy recently filed to be a certified solar lessor with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC).

Duke Energy Clean Energy Resources (DECER), a non-regulated affiliate of Duke Energy, will build, own and operate on-site solar facilities. DECER is not financially supported by either Duke Energy Carolinas or Duke Energy Progress, Duke Energy’s operating companies in the Carolinas. DECER will target business customers.

“Customers want more solar power for their operations, but the large upfront investment can be an obstacle,” Rob Caldwell, president of Duke Energy Renewables and Distributed Energy Technology, said. “Through DECER, we will be competing to provide customers a turnkey solar solution to meet their renewable energy goals, while managing the ongoing operations and maintenance of the facility.”

Under the DECER offering, customers can negotiate for solar facilities up to one megawatt (MW) of capacity and agreements with terms of up to 20 years. Customers will be able to use 100 percent of the electrical output of the facilities and be eligible for any rebates and net-metering options offered by Duke Energy. DECER will handle the ongoing maintenance of the facilities.

Before beginning operation in North Carolina, Duke Energy must receive approval from the NCUC.