U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act, legislation that would support community solar projects and expand access to solar energy across the country, regardless of one’s income or ability to host a solar system on their roof. Senator Luján has been a champion in advancing clean energy through community solar, previously introducing legislation that would require states to consider policies to promote the deployment of community solar projects. Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced companion legislation in the House.
Currently, nearly half of American households and businesses are unable to use rooftop solar systems due to high costs of installation or because they live in buildings that cannot host solar panels. Directing more resources to expand renewable energy through community solar projects would lower energy costs for consumers, support good-paying green energy jobs, and help combat the climate crisis.
“As the climate crisis continues to worsen, it’s clear that we must do more to support clean energy projects like community solar,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to introduce the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act to expand access to solar power through community solar projects for all Americans and create more good-paying, clean energy jobs. This bill is a step forward in combating the climate crisis, and I look forward to working with Representative Castor to get this bill passed.”
Specifically, the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act would:
- Require the Department of Energy to expand existing grant, loan and financing programs to include community solar programs and to establish a program to increase access to community solar programs, including through technical assistance;
- Require each electric utility to offer a community solar program that provides all ratepayers, including low-income ratepayers, with equitable access;
- Allow the General Services Administration to offer a public utility contract for a period of up to 30 years – currently, the maximum is 10 years.
The bill is endorsed by the Coalition for Community Solar Access, New Mexico Climate Investment Center, Public Power New Mexico, GRID Alternatives, New Energy Economy, League of Conservation Voters, Appalachian Voices, Vote Solar, Solstice, Sierra Club, Earthjustice and Solar United Neighbors.
News item from CCSA
