This legislative session, we’re excited to continue our work to make some of the most affordable power on the planet – solar – accessible to as many Vermonters as possible. While the federal government egregiously steps back, thankfully, leading Vermont policy makers are stepping up to support solar.

In today’s Climate Dispatch, we will discuss two important policy pushes this session to support solar. First, S.170 would pause the biennial review and freeze the net-metering compensation rate at the current rate. This would give the residential solar sector room to recalibrate amid the loss of federal incentives to ensure solar remains affordable and accessible for Vermont households. Another bill, S.202, would allow Vermonters to purchase plug-in portable solar units. These small, easy-to-use systems are far less expensive than traditional rooftop solar, and they allow Vermonters to plug directly into their homes and start saving without any additional steps. (Check out our video from last fall to see how plug-in solar works!)

To explain these bills and why they are important, we are joined today by the Chair of the Senate Natural Resources & Energy Committee, Senator Anne Watson (D-Washington), who introduced both bills with the goal of reducing energy costs and expanding access to clean solar power for more Vermonters. Hear Sen. Watson speak to the importance of reducing the high cost of energy for Vermonters, her work to support a strong clean energy jobs sector, and the importance of implementation – not retreat – from cornerstone policies like the Renewable Energy Standard and Global Warming Solutions Act.

Today’s episode

Help ensure that clean, affordable, renewable energy remains a priority for Vermont lawmakers – and an opportunity for all Vermonters. Call or email your Senators today and ask them to support S.170 (a 2-year pause on residential net metering rate compensation) and S.202 (the portable solar bill). Your legislators need to hear from you to help make this much-needed forward progress possible!

Thanks in advance for your help – and for all you do!

Johanna Miller & Dan Fingas

Vermont Natural Resources Council

Vermont Conservation Voters