The 50 state governments and relevant sub-federal actors should substantially increase tax incentives for passive solar construction in federally assisted housing
The 50 state governments and relevant sub-federal actors should substantially increase tax incentives for passive solar construction in federally assisted housing.
Solves the aff and creates a more effective model—regulations aren’t barriers
Ross, 8 – Program Director at the Vote Solar Initiative, where he focuses on creating markets for, and knocking down barriers to, distributed solar photovoltaics. (JP, “Developing State Solar Photovoltaic Markets,” 1/30, http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/report/2008/01/30/3883/developing-state-solar-photovoltaic-markets/)
Yet federal action is not enough. Energy policy is largely determined at the state level throughstateand local laws and utility regulation. States must therefore take the lead to ensure thatincentives are properly structured to keeps costs declining while regulatory processes becomemore easily navigable by businesses and consumers. Solar photovoltaics must rival power from the utility grid in both cost and accessibility in order to make solar power appealing to consumers.
Four policies are central to ensuring the wide-scale deployment of solar energy:
Financial incentives: Financial incentives for solar power, sustained over five to 10 years at a declining rate, ensure market stability and cost reductions, and will build a state-based industry by stimulating customer investment.
Interconnection standards: Solar PV customers must be able to connect to the utility grid without undue delay and expense. If the process is lengthy or difficult, it will dissuade many consumers.
Net metering: Net metering ensures that consumers are equipped with PV systems that meet their energy needs while crediting customers for all the energy they generate.
Rate design: Utilities should charge consumers fairly for the electricity they consume and make the same rate choices available to solar customers that are available to other customers.
This report highlights model policies and case studies of four states that have effectively developed thriving solar markets. These models provide guidance to states looking to boosttheir economies by developing a strong solar industryand show that stronger energy independence through solar power is achievable for every state.These successes will provide essential lessons in shaping a bold national solar policy.
Off
Passive solar isn’t topical—solar power is distinct from solar energy, which is much broader and explodes limits
