The program, in which customers receive lease payments based on the amount of energy generated, is similar to one approved last year for We Energies.

Renewable energy and ratepayer advocates have opposed such “rent-a-roof” programs, which they say are a bad deal for customers and unfair to private developers.

Utilities have sought to block third-party companies from offering similar lease arrangement, arguing that only regulated entities can supply electricity. The PSC has so far refused to rule whether third-party leases are legal.

“Where does the monopoly end and the private market begin? It doesn’t appear there’s any guard rails,” said Tyler Huebner, executive director of Renew Wisconsin. “The commission has yet to determine if outside entities can offer these leases. It sets up this uneven playing field.”

Valcq appeared to agree with that reasoning.

“I view this as sort of the monopolies using their position to elbow out the competition,” Valcq said. “I see this as sort of stifling that market.”