Vermont Senator, Bernie Sanders, plus 11 colleagues introduced the act, 10 Million Solar Roofs, arguing that it will create energy independence. The policy will also aid in cutting air and water pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while creating new green jobs and putting America in the forefront of the global solar power industry.
The aggressive solar policy was approved by Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on Wednesday. Senator Sanders hopes to include his bill in a package that is expected to be before the Senate later this summer.
The 10 Million Solar Roofs bill would fund solar installations through competitive grants. $250 million in grants would be approved in 2012. And between 2013 and 2021, $500 million would be provided annually. Using consumer rebates for purchase and installations of solar systems.
The bill’s ultimate goal is over the next 10 years for 10 million new solar rooftop systems and 200,000 new solar water heating systems to be installed in the United States. The total current US solar energy capacity will be tripled when the bill is fully integrated. If it becomes a law, than going solar will be even more cost efficient for Americans and a step forward towards a clean energy future.
