Proposed legislation has been unveiled by two congressmen that will encourage the installation of 10 million rooftop solar energy systems in Texas homes and businesses over the next ten years.
This long overdue move could help Texas reach its logical position as a major solar energy generator. Up until now it has lagged far behind other states when it comes to investment in solar panels and photovoltaic technology in general.
Bernie Sanders and Steve Cohen have proposed a bill similar to rebate and incentive programs in New Jersey and California that could cover up to half the cost of a solar water heating system or photovoltaic electricity generating system. California and New Jersey are No. 1 and No. 2 in the United States in installed photovoltaic systems.
According to Bernie Sanders, a large expansion of solar power is an economical and clean way to help break our dependence on foreign oil. Solar panels also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that add to global warming. Investment in renewable energy technology will create good-paying green jobs and improve the U.S. geopolitical position.
Solar panels instead of oil in Texas
By providing financial assistance for interested homeowners, businesses and government bodies the legislation hopes to achieve the installation of 200,000 solar water heating systems and 10 million solar photovoltaic systems. The plan is simple; by providing financial incentives, which will reduce the initial investment costs of solar panels, the United States can increase its solar power use. At the moment the U.S. ranks fourth in the world in installed solar capacity, behind Germany, Spain and Japan.
According to the American Wind Energy Association, in addition to its strengths in nuclear energy, gas and oil Texas has consistently been ranked No. 1 in the country for installed wind power. The state does not fair so well when it comes to capturing energy from the sun and despite boasting a many sunny days it doesn’t rank in the top 10 states nationwide.
One of the reasons for this is an inability to pass solar-friendly legislation. Last year, efforts to promote solar investment in the 81st Legislature failed, putting a stop to a $500 million allocation for solar rebates.
This is a shame because Texas is one of the best states in the country for generating energy from the sun. Once the system is installed the power that is generated is free of charge, and clean. Every Texan should have solar panels and hopefully this new legislation will start the ball rolling in that direction.