WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following is a statement from Tom Kimbis, interim president of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), in response to the recommendations made by Nevada’s New Energy Industry Task Force (NEITF) on Tuesday:

“Solar energy has the ability to revolutionize the Nevadan economy and way of life. Gov. Sandoval deserves great credit for his leadership in establishing a forward-looking task force, and we thank the task force members for keeping consumers at the forefront of this conversation. Tuesday, the NEITF wisely approved several recommendations that open the door for a brighter future, economic development, new jobs and high-tech leadership for Nevada by easing access to clean, affordable technologies, like solar.

“Specifically, SEIA supports the task force recommendations that would: reinstate retail rate net metering, providing a fair deal to solar customers through use of a minimum bill (until the PUCN finishes its "value of solar" review); expand solar access by enabling novel community solar models to thrive throughout the state, allowing more Nevadans to choose solar; promote solar in new construction developments through inclusion of solar in the building code to create a world-class building stock in the state; and modernize Nevada’s electricity grid.

“We look forward to working with Gov. Sandoval and Nevada state officials on all aspects of this plan, including improving understanding of the extensive federal and state consumer protections already in place, so policymakers can feel comfortable knowing the state’s economy, environment and the livelihood of its taxpayers will all benefit from greater use of solar."

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About SEIA®:

Celebrating its 42nd anniversary in 2016, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contact:

Alex Hobson, SEIA Senior Communications Manager, [email protected] (202) 556-2886