Governors' Wind Energy Coalition

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following is a statement from Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), on the unanimous decision by the Governors’ Wind Energy Coalition to add solar energy to their policy portfolio and change their name to the “Governors’ Wind & Solar Energy Coalition”:

“We commend the Coalition for recognizing solar power’s central role in the American energy landscape. The lion’s share of policy is made in states, and so it is critical that solar has a seat at the table when the governors consider their energy options.

“In particular, battles over net energy metering are playing out in more than 20 states and recognition among governors that consumer choice and clean air both rest on fair net metering policies is so important right now.

“Solar has zero carbon emissions and can be deployed cost-effectively and quickly – all while improving grid reliability. By 2020, the U.S. solar industry will deploy more than 20 gigawatts of solar annually, employ more than 420,000 American workers and add more than $30 billion a year into the U.S. economy.

“By making solar energy a top policy priority, these leading governors are sending a powerful message that the future of clean energy is now, and we look forward to working with them to fully utilize America’s renewable resources.”