Arizona is thinking about the future.  Lawmakers want to tap into solar power to help smart growth and continued development.  There are at least six bills on the state docket that address solar energy concerns.  They aim to create tax breaks for power plant developers and help homeowners, businesses and schools convert to solar power.

Becoming a solar energy powerhouse is no easy task.  States compete against one another to provide the most inviting packages for solar power parts manufacturers to relocate.  The Arizona Corporation Commission has mandated public utilities generate 15% of their electricity from renewable energy sources by 2025. A combination of tax breaks and pressure on state utilities will most likely be needed to make these programs a success.  

A breakdown of Current Arizona Solar Energy Bills:

• HB 2613: Would create a property tax break for all power plants generating two or more megawatts of electricity from renewable sources and for manufacturers of renewable energy equipment. Sponsors: Reps. Lucy Mason, R-Prescott, Tom Prezelski, D-Tucson, and Sen. Richard Miranda, D-Phoenix.
• HB 2615: Standardizes building permit fees municipalities and counties charge for solar panel construction. Sponsors: Reps. Mason, Ed Ableser, D-Tempe and Michele Reagan, R-Scottsdale.
• HB 2766: Creates energy efficiency standards for residential and commercial construction, state buildings and schools. Sponsors: Reps. Mason, Chad Campbell, D-Phoenix and Marian McClure, R-Tucson.
• HB 2614: Allows renewable energy equipment to be taxed at 20 percent of its normal depreciated value until 2040. Sponsors: Rep. Mason, Sen. Miranda and Sen. Tom O’Halleran, R-Sedona.
• HB 2738: Establishes a state grants program that would fund installation of solar technology at schools. Sponsor: Rep. Steve Farley, D-Tucson.
• HB 2538: Requires all state parks to install shower facilities powered by solar energy within a decade. Sponsor: Reps. Krysten Sinema, D-Phoenix and Ableser.

Read More About Arizona’s Renewable Energy Quest from The Herald

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