Industry advocates meet with Congressional Solar Caucus to discuss priorities

Solar United Neighbors, the Conservative Energy Network and residential and small business solar owners met on April 10 with members of the bipartisan Congressional Solar Caucus to discuss the benefits of solar energy for their families and their communities and the nation’s economy. They also discussed policy challenges and solutions to broadening access to rooftop and community solar technologies.

“As consumers, we should have the right to choose the energy solution that works best and provides the most value for our families,” said Robert Fernatt, a solar homeowner. “My solar panels allow me to produce my own energy, power my electric vehicle, share my excess clean energy with my neighbors, and save money as a result.”

Advocates noted it’s an exciting time for consumers who want to take control of where their energy comes from by going solar. Prices have declined 37.5% since 2010. Additionally, new investments from the Inflation Reduction Act are lowering barriers to solar energy for low-to-moderate income families.

“There are many reasons why both sides of the aisle support local solar energy,” said Sarah Spence, Midwest Regional Director for the Conservative Energy Network. “Local solar showcases technology innovation, strengthens the grid to meet our growing energy demands, and allows people to choose where their energy comes from, giving them energy independence.”

New federal investment is expanding solar to America’s rural communities as well through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Established in the 2002 farm bill, REAP has made more than 22,000 awards. This has leveraged more than $7 billion in private investment.

“The REAP grant helped us go solar,” said Tommye Lou Rafes of T L Fruits and Vegetables. “This means we could save money, support the environment, and grow our businesses.”

Rafes noted that her project also helped create jobs. Their installation crew was from a workforce development training program to help former coal miners gain certification to install solar panels.

Congress is considering several pieces of legislation that can ensure local solar energy continues to benefit American families. H.R.2751, sponsored by Rep. Castor would require the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a program to increase access to community solar. Additionally, Rep. Castor is sponsoring H.R. 5075, a bill that would prevent utilities from using ratepayer money for lobbying. This is an incredibly important issue for solar owners. Utilities leverage their monopoly status to fight against policies that create a level playing field for solar. This bill is an attempt to restore that balance.

Lastly, Congress is considering an extension of the Farm Bill. This legislation includes funding for REAP. Cuts to this popular investment will limit solar opportunity in rural America.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to speak with the Congressional Solar Caucus,” said Glen Brand VP of Advocacy and Policy of Solar United Neighbors. “Millions of American families now have solar energy and tens of millions more want to go solar. They are a key part of building a new electricity system that benefits everyone.”

The Congressional Solar Caucus initially formed in 2018. Congressmen Krishnamoorthi and Norman re-launched the bi-partisan caucus in May of 2023. The Caucus is a forum for Members of Congress and the public to discuss high-priority issues relating to the renewable energy and solar technology production sectors.

“As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Solar Caucus, I’m very glad to join Congressman Norman in highlighting the benefits of distributed solar technology for individuals and small businesses across the nation,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “This bipartisan briefing will bring attention to the importance of solar energy and its many virtues, especially for those in rural communities, as well as its vital role in maintaining America’s solar energy leadership.”

“Solar United Neighbors highlights just how important and timely solar energy really is, and all Americans deserve the right to choose solar technology,” Congressman Norman said. “I believe that taking an “all of the above” energy strategy leads to fantastic American job creation, competitiveness, and economic growth. I’m glad that SUN stresses that in their work.”

News item from Solar United Neighbors Action