’10 Million Solar Roofs Bill’ Approved by Senate Energy Committee
Yesterday, the U.S. Senate Energy Committee advanced what could be a momentous piece of legislation for the solar industry. Penned by Bernie Sanders, Vermont senator and chairman of the Green Jobs Committee, the “Ten Million Solar Roofs” bill would provide for the installation of 10 million new solar power systems on American homes and businesses over the next 10 years. Hundreds of thousands of new jobs would be created, greenhouse gas emissions would be greatly reduced and the United States would be catapulted into world leadership in solar power production — if the legislation succeeds as is.
“We are losing the race for solar jobs, and falling behind other nations in solar installations,” said Sanders. “That must change. The question is whether we will take advantage of clean, renewable solar energy or let other countries create solar jobs using technology developed in America. I think we can lead. This bill will help us do that.” He emphasized that although the solar cell was invented in the United States, countries like Japan, Germany and Spain have nevertheless outpaced the U.S. in utilizing solar technology.
The U.S. Department of Energy says that, combined with existing incentives, the program could feasibly meet or even exceed that goal of 10 million solar rooftops. Moreover, the bill would finance the installation of up to 40,000 megawatts of new solar energy while facilitating a further drop in the price of solar installation. The bill would finance both solar electric and solar water heating systems.
Speaking of financing, Sanders’ plan includes allocating $250 million in competitive grants in 2012, with $500 million made available each year thereafter through 2021.
Since clearing the Senate energy committee yesterday, Sanders has asked Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) to include the “Ten Million Solar Roofs” bill in energy and climate change legislation Reid plans to bring to the Senate floor this summer.
Source: sanders.senate.gov
Photo Credit: Uraban CSA & Solar Community
Posted on July 22nd in Solar Politics by Dan.