We need to collect as many signatures as possible to show leaders that Alaskans support the passage of community solar legislation. We will deliver this petition in the second part of the 33rd legislative session. Add your name below to the growing list of Alaskans that support clean energy for all!
"I support SB 152 and the passage of community solar legislation for Alaska. The majority of Alaskans support using solar energy, but many Alaskans cannot invest in residential solar panels. Substantial barriers prevent Alaskans from accessing clean, reliable, and affordable solar energy: some ratepayers rent rather than own their homes; some homeowners may not have suitable roofs or sufficient land; and for others, the upfront costs of installation are simply too high. Community Solar Gardens provide an accessible alternative, in which communities and individuals come together and to decide where their energy comes from. Community members purchase subscriptions to a shared solar garden, and therefore do not need to bear the untenable costs of installation for residential panels.
Increasing the supply of solar energy in Alaska is no longer just about decarbonizing our energy supply, although this is certainly an important point given the dire impacts of the climate crisis on Alaskans. It's also about ensuring reliable and affordable energy to all. In states with community solar, consumers see an average of 10% savings on electricity bills, and when arrays are owned by community members and organizations, the shared savings flow back into the community to build community wealth. Because these savings are accessible without accessible upfront installation costs, community solar gives lower-income and historically disadvantaged groups access to the benefits of renewable energy and ensures benefits of renewable energy are shared more equitably.
41 states currently use community solar, and Alaska is one of the last states to implement community solar programs that expand access to affordable solar energy. Community Solar puts power in the hands of communities, and expands energy security and energy justice. Please do everything you can to pass this important legislation."
Signed,