FEED-IN TARIFF FOR SUN FLUNKING IN U.S.

WFC Grades North American Feed-in Tariff Programs; Ontario and Vermont Pass-California & Oregon Fail
Paul Gipe, May 26, 2010 (Wind-Works)

"The World Future Council has issued a report grading North American feed-in tariffs for renewable energy. Only Ontario and Vermont make a passing grade. All other programs in the US and Canada failed to pass.

"The report, [Grading North American Feed-in Tariffs--How do existing North American feed-in tariff programs stand up to best practices worldwide? What programs are world-class?] by renewable energy industry analyst Paul Gipe, compares North American programs to successful policies in Europe."

click to enlarge

"Gipe evaluated the programs using ten criteria that have been found critical in creating successful renewable energy policy…Subsequently, Gipe compared the programs found in Germany, France, and Spain. Worldwide, the policies in these countries are considered the gold standard of feed-in tariff design. These programs are top in their class and are known to work well.

"… France and Germany each earned 90 points and were both awarded an "A". Spain's program earned slightly less, 80 points, and was awarded an "A-"(A minus)…In the American system of grading "A" is excellent; "B" and "C" are good; "D" is poor, but passing; and "F" is for failing, or unacceptable performance…"

click to enlarge

"Ontario, which has a sophisticated program modeled after those in Europe, ranked the highest with a total score of 84 points for a grade of "A-". Oregon ranked the lowest with a score of 16 winning it a very solid "D"…Vermont was the only program in the US to pass… with a score of 54 a "D" for effort…Onetime trendsetter California pulls up the rear with only 28 points. At last count the Golden State's feed-in tariff resulted in the installation of only 14 MW…

"The report also examined proposed legislation in Indiana and California using the same criteria. Indiana's AB 1190…qualified for an "A-" with 82 points. California's AB 1106…earned only 54 points giving the proposal a "D" grade…"