Public commenters urge stronger SB 300 implementation and criticize NV Energy and Sierra rate proposals

During two public-comment periods the Commission heard a range of views from residents and stakeholders about SB 300 implementation and proposed utility rate moves.

Tom Wicker of Reno urged the Commission to do more to encourage NV Energy to adopt alternative rate-making mechanisms and distributed energy resources. Wicker cited concept papers and examples from other utilities and said, "We should make use of these innovative approaches to avoid the cost of added transmission lines," arguing that distributed solar and storage could be packaged and deployed to create dispatchable capacity.

In Las Vegas, Angel DeFazio objected to procedural notice and alleged staff and company failings related to a metrics docket; she told the Commission she would seek fines for perceived procedural violations if they continued. Christian Salmon criticized NV Energy leadership, calling Doug Cannon (referred to in the transcript) a "figurehead" and alleging high executive pay and influence through campaign donations. Salmon also urged evening meeting times to broaden participation.

Linda Buchard told the Commission that "SP" (Sierra, as referenced in the transcript) had filed to "gross up" a rate for tax purposes and urged the Commission to deny an increase recorded in the transcript as moving from 9.9 to 12.5, saying ratepayers should not be made to pay company taxes.

Chair Haley Williamson closed public comment and the Commission adjourned with a simple procedural closing.

What to watch: Public commenters urged stronger incentives and outreach to get utilities to participate in SB 300 processes; a mix of procedural complaints and policy suggestions were raised and several speakers asked for greater public access and clearer consumer sessions.