NC S473

Reduces the maximum use of out-of-state new solar energy certificates to 12.5% of renewable energy portfolio standard (REPS) requirements, while other out-of-state renewable energy certificates remain capped at 25%.

Doubles the solar energy requirement from 0.2% to 0.4% of total electric power sold to retail customers in North Carolina by 2018 and thereafter.

Accelerates the solar compliance schedule with new intermediate targets: 0.02% (2010-2011), 0.08% (2012), 0.14% (2013), 0.19% (2014), 0.25% (2015), 0.30% (2016), 0.36% (2017), and 0.40% (2018+).

Exempts electric utilities with fewer than 150,000 North Carolina retail customers as of December 31, 2006 from the out-of-state solar certificate limitations.

Effective January 1, 2012.