As the NC Utility Commission begins to look at setting new rates for solar power, terms like “standard contract” and “avoided cost” will be discussed, even impacts of a “solar war”.  What probably won’t be discussed is how long NC will continue mandating that 12.5% of our energy come from conservation and renewable energy sources – no matter what the cost – jobs lost in 2014: 3,275; 2014 revenue lost: $42.2 Million. Now that solar energy is thriving in NC thanks in large part to a generous tax credit, can the taxpayers please stop subsidizing it?  Let’s cut this industry loose and let it succeed or fail on it’s own merits.  I believe they call that the free market.