Electricity company Belco has moved a step forward with its plan to allow home owners to sell electricity back to the company.

President and CEO Vincent Ingham said a proposal has been filed with the Energy Commission which, if approved, will allow 750 customers to sell energy created using small-scale renewable systems to Belco at its current rate.

The energy systems must first gain regulatory and Planning approval and be licensed by the Energy Commission, Mr. Ingham said and the initiative is only open to customers producing ten kilowatts of energy or less.

"Ten kilowatts is more than enough to meet the demands of a household," he said.

"We hope this small step will demonstrate not only our interest in renewable energy, but demonstrate the viability of this solution."

He said he did not know when the Commission would reach a decision, but added: "Once they have approved and signed off, we will announce that it has been approved and make available the requirements necessary to enter the programme.

"There is the possibility we could have a meter change-out fee the meter in your home would have to be changed."

If the programme proves successful the number of homes may be extended.

"Seven hundred and fifty is a number that represents around 2.5 percent of our customer base," Mr. Ingham said. "We feel it's a good number to try and target."

Part of the hope is that more people in the community will be motivated to invest in renewable energies such as solar and wind power.

"Many countries have set a target of 20 percent. That's something that Bermuda needs to strive to achieve."

Tim Madeiros, owner of Alternative Energy Systems Ltd., applauded the move, saying: "As long as the rates stay the same as those they're charging, that's true net-metering.

"It's a positive step for the industry and the community. I'm glad they are coming around."