Solar Energy Incentives Signed Into Law in San Fran, Still Stalled in Senate
by Matthew McDermott, Brooklyn, NY on 06.18.08
photo by Steve Rhodes
Last week we passed on the news about San Francisco’s solar incentives being approved and how the Senate failed to act on a bill which would extend, both in time and extent, Federal tax incentives for renewable energy. Here are some further information:
San Fran incentives to be signed by mayor
At a press conference later today San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom intends to sign into law the largest city solar promotion program in the United States. The 10 year long program will enable rebates of between $3000 and $6000 for individuals, and up to $10,000 for businesses who install photovoltaic systems.
Senate fails to move on HR 6049
Though supporters of the Energy Independence and Tax Relief Act of 2008 gained two votes as compared to last week’s vote, the bill still failed to escaped being filibustered by opponents. If it ever eventually passes, the bill will mean $18 billion in tax incentives for investment in renewable energy, carbon capture and sequestration projects, energy efficiency improvements and conservation efforts. A summary of the House version of the bill is available, for those who wish to see exactly what’s at stake here.
Renewable Energy Incentives
Solar Energy Incentives Approved in San Francisco
Renewable Energy Incentives Stalled in Senate
End the Perverse Incentives Effect of Renewable Energy
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A more efficient and cost effective renewable energy system is needed.
A more efficient and cost effective renewable energy system is needed.
To accelerate the implementation of renewable electric generation with added incentives and a FASTER PAYBACK - ROI. (A method of storing energy, would accelerate the use of renewable energy) A greater tax credit, accelerated depreciation, funding scientific research and pay as you save utility billing. (Reduce and or eliminates the tax on implementing energy efficiency, eliminate increase in Real estate Taxes for energy efficiency improvement).
In California, you also have the impediment, that when there are an interruption of power supply by the Utility you the consumer cannot use your renewable energy system to provide power.
In today's technology there is automatic switching equipment that would disconnect the consumer from the grid, which would permit renewable generation for the consumer even during power interruption. Energy storage technology must advance substantially. “Energy conservation through energy storage”.
New competition for the world's limited oil and natural gas supplies is increasing global demand like never before. Reserves are dwindling. These and other factors are forcing energy prices to skyrocket here at home. It's affecting not just the fuel for our cars and homes, but it's driving up electricity costs, too. A new world is emerging. The energy decisions our nation makes today will have huge implications into the next century.
A synchronous system with batteries allows the blending of a PV with grid power, but also offers the advantage of “islanding” in case of a power failure. A synchronous system automatically disconnects the utility power from the house and operates like an off-grid home during power failures. This system, however, is more costly and loses some of the efficiency advantages of a battery-less system.
We’re surrounded by energy — sun, wind, water. The problem is harnessing it in an economical way.
Jay Draiman, Northridge, CA
June 19, 2008
Energy Audit, Telecom audit, Utility bills audit and review for refunds or better rates, Demand Management, Energy Efficiency review and implementation, Renewable Energy, Lighting Retrofit, Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Fuel-Cell, Thermal imaging, Rainwater harvesting, Energy conservation, Ice Storage, Water conservation methods, Energy and telecom audit and procurement
Much is at stake when policy makers, regulators, and corporate executives face the challenges of evolving energy markets and efficiency.
Why is Congress always stalling on this? I thought we were beyond denying we had a problem here and need to chart a new path towards energy independence.
More states need to be doing what Cali is doing and put Renewable Energy on the ballot. We can bypass the inherently slow legislative process and start going green.
If people would just get out and vote, we could pass the Solar and Clean Energy referendum and get this party started. Don't worry Congress, California will show you the way.
I don't hold out hope for the senate - too many special interests at work there; but I hope LA and San Diego follow suit.
Getting the big three cities of California doing the right thing would be a very good start especially given that Bush and the Texas oil people enjoy regularly screwing California on gas prices.