Feb. 2 update: The Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) reported that the bill was held in the House Energy & Environment Committee and is likely to not receive a vote this year.
The community solar market just got a boost in Washington. State Rep. David Hackney (D) and Sen. John Lovick (D) pre-filed both HB 2253 and SB 6113, respectively, which would expand equitable access to the benefits of locally sited solar power to all Washingtonians. The legislation, dubbed the Fair Access to Community Solar Act, will build upon previous legislative victories to help Washington meet its energy goals, create jobs, and grow a more sustainable economy.
“As soon as constituents and my colleagues learn how community solar works, they realize the immense benefits it can bring,” said Rep. Hackney. “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.”
State community solar programs empower ratepayers with the choice to enroll as subscribers to a community solar project, which enables them to receive credits on their electricity bills based on their share of the project’s energy generation. While Washington state was home to the country’s first community solar project, the state currently ranks 31st in deployment.
“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,” said Sen. Lovick.
The Fair Access to Community Solar Act establishes a community solar bill crediting program to ensure subscribers earn a proportionate credit on their monthly utility bill. The new policy will allow community solar developers to leverage state and federal incentives to bring energy savings to Washingtonians.
“The national momentum for community solar continues to build. Getting a comprehensive program bill across the finish line here in Washington will allow for the state to reap all the benefits numerous states across the country already see from community solar,” said Derek Chernow, Western Director at Coalition for Community Solar (CCSA).
“A new legislative session brings hope for community solar in Washington,” said Mason Rolph, President of Olympia Community Solar. “This legislation will help reduce many Washingtonians’ stubbornly high energy costs and ensure that the grid of the future is affordable, equitable, and reliable.”
News item from CCSA
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