Two assemblymembers from Georgia have sponsored bills that will expand community solar in the state. State Sen. Jason Anavitarte will soon introduce SB 210 to committee, and Rep. Beth Camp recently introduced HB 1152. Both bills allow solar developers to participate in a community solar program established under the Georgia Public Service Commission.
Comer Community Solar Array. Credit: Georgia Power Company/United Renewable Energy
The bill will also ensure future business models require cost-effective innovation that saves the state, individuals and small businesses money. A working group will bring electric distribution utilities, consumers and community solar industry representatives together to engage in proactive conversation to ensure the program operates smoothly, said the Georgia SEIA organization.
“This is a simple bill that will only allow community solar developers to operate while leaving the rulemaking process up to the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC),” said GASEIA President Pete Corbett. “The PSC has done an amazing job with solar; Georgia needs this legislation to authorize further growth of the community solar market and to help meet Georgia’s energy shortage.”
“Solar energy has been an amazing benefit to Georgia and I want to expand the community solar market to benefit ratepayers,” stated Paulding County Republican Sen. Anavitarte. “Georgia is Top 10 for solar production and there are solar facilities in over 80 counties bringing jobs, economic development and low-cost solar energy to local communities. Solar energy is also the cheapest energy source per kilowatt in Georgia. Senate Bill 210 is about expanding energy choices, driving down rates and improving the energy market for Georgia’s residents and businesses.”
“I first got involved with solar as a realtor,” explained Rep. Camp. “Passing HB 1152 will allow residents, churches, schools and local communities to grow through local solar power produced right here in Georgia. Georgia has seen incredible economic growth and now an energy crisis. It is time we did something at the legislature to help lower rates for consumers while also providing our businesses with the energy they need to operate.”
News item from GASEIA
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