If we want a future powered by renewable energy, it will be crucial to have incentives that encourage homeowners and commercial property owners to invest in renewable energy and assist contractors in winning projects.
At Exact Solar, our commitment is to provide our customers who finance their solar systems with the shortest possible payback period for full ownership. For many home and commercial property owners we’ve worked with, incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act and SREC programs are what made the numbers work.
But there’s still more that needs to be done before the pricing works for many projects that are still “on the fence.” In January, we published How PA Homeowners Can Help Raise SREC Prices. We believe that updating Pennsylvania’s outdated energy standard would result in increased SREC values, lower payback periods, and make solar more appealing to a broader range of people.
Depending on the outcome of November’s election, the speed of the renewable energy transition could dramatically shift. Many state solar markets rely on incentives like this.
Given that Kamala Harris recently interviewed three potential running mates on Sunday and is about to officially announce her VP candidate, we believe it’s a great opportunity to examine the climate issues record of each potential candidate, beginning with Kamala herself.
Vice President Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris has been a vocal advocate for transitioning to a clean energy economy. During her tenure as Vice President, Harris supported the Biden administration’s creation of the Inflation Reduction Act, which aimed to reduce carbon emissions and boost renewable energy investments nationwide.
Earlier this month, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a historic $20 billion investment to expand access to clean energy and lower energy costs nationwide. This funding will awarded through competitive grants and loans to specially chosen projects.
As Vice President, Harris has also helped spearhead the National Climate Resilience Framework alongside President Biden.
It’s safe to say that if Harris were to become president, we would continue to see investments in clean energy across the country. As part of the current administration, she’s helped to coordinate the most significant investment in clean energy in our country’s history.
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has spearheaded several key initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy in his home state. During his tenure as attorney general, Shapiro went after fracking companies that polluted and ruined groundwater.
Shapiro’s administration has secured substantial federal funding for clean energy projects, including a $396 million grant under the Inflation Reduction Act for the RISE PA program, which aims to reduce industrial emissions and improve air quality.
In March, Governor Shapiro introduced his PRESS and PACER plans aimed at modernizing Pennsylvania’s energy portfolio. Both are still being debated in the state legislature, and it’s uncertain whether his nomination for VP would bring more attention to them or see them ignored.
Another of Shapiro’s notable achievements is the development of two clean hydrogen hubs in Pennsylvania. These hubs are projected to create 41,000 jobs while advancing clean energy technology. However, clean energy activists have been less than thrilled since one of them will require fracking.
He has also accelerated the state’s program to plug abandoned and orphaned wells, addressing a significant source of methane emissions. Shapiro was also a strong advocate for the Solar for Schools program and signed it into law in July of 2024.
Shapiro has a strong track record of advocating for clean energy and would be an excellent advocate for clean energy in the nation’s second-highest office.
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has positioned himself as a leader in the transition to clean energy. His administration has set ambitious goals, aiming for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. The associated legislation mandates that Minnesota utilities transition to 100% clean energy in the next 16 years.
Walz’s administration’s “One Minnesota Path to Clean Energy” plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050 and create jobs in the clean energy sector. Partly because of his policies, the state is on track to achieve a 30% reduction in emissions by 2025.
Walz has also supported investments in clean energy infrastructure and renewable energy projects, including wind and solar. His demonstrated commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing sustainable energy solutions could make him a strong advocate for the solar industry alongside Harris’ administration.
Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona
Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona has also been a staunch advocate for environmental protection and clean energy. He’s the only one on Harris’ shortlist who has been in office long enough to earn a League of Conservation Voters scorecard (with a 93% lifetime score of supporting clean energy issues).
Throughout his tenure, Kelly has supported legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy. He voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act.
Kelly’s administration has taken steps to improve air quality in the Phoenix metro area, securing commitments from the EPA to reduce regional air emissions by electrifying cars and trucks.
Kelly has also secured water rights and promoted water conservation for Arizona indigenous communities by sponsoring the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act.
Additionally, Kelly has supported the development of renewable energy projects across the state, advocating for solar and wind energy initiatives that align with his commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. His administration has specifically invested millions into solar for Arizona tribal communities.
Conclusion
Every candidate on Harris’ VP shortlist has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the renewable energy transition and steering the country towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. Each has a proven track record of supporting policies and initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy sources, and address climate change challenges. Their leadership and advocacy reflect an understanding of the critical role clean energy plays in securing a healthier environment and a robust economy. Regardless of whom Harris announces as her running mate tomorrow, we are confident that the investments in clean energy will persist if she is elected to lead the country in November.
This election is pivotal for the future of solar energy and the broader renewable energy landscape in the United States. The policies and leadership chosen during this election will shape the pace and direction of the energy transition, impacting everything from technological innovation and job creation to energy independence and environmental resilience. With significant challenges and opportunities ahead, having leaders who prioritize sustainable energy solutions will be crucial in accelerating the adoption of solar power and other renewables. As the world moves toward cleaner energy alternatives, this election will play a vital role in determining how effectively and swiftly the U.S. can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and foster a more sustainable future for all.