Duke Energy Receives OK for Solar Pilot Program

Both businesses have experience in green development.

A pilot program from Plainfield-based Duke Energy Indiana is moving forward. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has approved the effort, which the utility says will make it easier for businesses, schools and nonprofits to have solar energy at their facilities.

Duke Energy says eligible customers will be able to lease a solar energy facility for up to 20 years while the utility installs, operates, owns and maintains the facility. A net-metering arrangement will allow customers to receive all of the kilowatt-hour output from the solar equipment with an initial capacity of 10 megawatts.

Duke says the program gives customers the advantages of solar power with minimal upfront costs and no maintenance fees.

"This program gives our business and nonprofit customers, including schools and local governments, another option to incorporate clean, renewable energy into their energy mix through a cost-effective leasing arrangement," said Stan Pinegar, Duke Energy state president for Indiana.

Duke Energy adds all of the costs associated with the program will only affect participating customers. Those not participating will not be impacted by the program.