Solar advocates lobby on strong fundamentals amid political uncertaint

AI generated summary

Solar advocates are actively lobbying to maintain the solar-friendly provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), emphasizing the importance of solar energy in boosting American manufacturing and meeting rising electricity demand. Sean Gallagher from the Solar Energy Industries Association highlights the need to protect investments made by American businesses in local economies, warning against the potential closure of newly established factories. However, challenges arise from the Trump administration's trade policies, which threaten the clean energy sector's supply chains and access to essential materials.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration projects a significant increase in solar generation, with solar and storage accounting for the majority of new electric capacity added last year. Advocates are urging Congress to preserve critical tax credits that support solar manufacturing and deployment. Bipartisan support appears to be growing, as evidenced by recent letters from Republican representatives opposing the repeal of these tax credits. Lobbying efforts are also focused on demonstrating the economic benefits of solar energy to constituents, showcasing real-life examples of cost savings for households and organizations.