Key takeaways

G

ood news is on the horizon for Washington residents: the state's latest legislative initiative promises to shine a new light on how clean energy is shared among its citizens. The recently unveiled Fair Access to Community Solar Act, introduced by Representative David Hackney and Senator John Lovick through HB 2253 and SB 6113, is designed to ensure that the benefits of solar power energy reach every resident, prioritizing those who have previously been underserved.

So, what's the deal? Imagine a world where joining a solar energy project is as simple and hassle-free as subscribing to an online service. No initial investment, no need to own a home—just pure solar savings on your electricity bill. These projects, which can be found on lands as diverse as landfills and former industrial sites, are a boon for households, small businesses, and community services alike.

This act doesn't just promise environmental benefits— it also aims to stimulate the local economy. It will pave the way for job creation and offer solar project developers a key to unlock state and federal incentives, fueling the nation’s growing community solar sector.

Senator Lovick expressed pride in collaborating with stakeholders to bring this bill to the fore. "By prioritizing a program structure that benefits as many Washingtonians as possible, The Fair Access to Community Solar bill will help ensure our state can lead on community solar adoption," he said.

Representative Hackney shares in the excitement, noting, “Our state is long overdue for this type of legislation to implement a competitive community solar program in order to bring energy justice and economic growth for all Washingtonians.”

Although Washington introduced the nation's first community solar project, its current standing at 31st in deployment doesn't reflect its pioneer status. Nonetheless, this forward-thinking legislation is ready to launch the state into a leading role in the solar narrative.

Sources:

https://communitysolaraccess.org/news/

https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2023-24/

https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2023-24/Pdf/

https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/

Key takeaways

Posted 
Jan 23, 2024
 in 
Solar News
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