ARIZONA RESIDENTS:

SOLAR TAX CREDIT BILL NEEDS YOUR HELP

Arizona has big energy problems. Rates are skyrocketing—the state's largest utility has recently requested two rate increases, and the average consumer faces an increase of $30 a month in utility bills. And in many places the transmission and distribution system is severely overloaded, with strong opposition to building new power lines from residents. Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in the nation, and the problems are only getting worse.

Solar energy can help. The Arizona Legislature is considering a bill, HB 2429, to provide tax incentives for solar energy installations in the state, making them cheaper to install. Solar makes sense for a lot of reasons:

• Natural gas costs have tripled since 2001. Diversifying the energy portfolio and reducing Arizona’s consumption of natural gas can help.
• Solar produces at the point of consumption—reducing the strain on overburdened power lines.
• Solar produces the most electricity during peak demand times of the day. By reducing the need for the most expensive electricity, solar lowers costs for all ratepayers.
• Solar is clean, green, and made in-state; reducing pollution and increasing energy independence.

The bill has passed through the House and is currently in the Senate. If you live in Arizona, please take a moment to tell your state senator to support HB 2429 by clicking here.