SEIA Urges Gov. Kasich to Veto RPS Freeze

WASHINGTON, DC – Warning that it will have a chilling effect on renewable energy development in Ohio, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is urging Gov. John Kasich to veto a bill that would freeze the state’s renewable energy and energy efficiency mandates. The bill, SB 310, passed the General Assembly on May 28 but has not yet reached the governor’s desk.

“In the wake of proposed new EPA regulations to cut carbon emissions at existing power plants, now is not the time to step away from Ohio’s commitment to clean, renewable energy. We strongly urge Gov. Kasich to veto this misguided legislation,” said Carrie Cullen Hitt, SEIA’s senior vice president of state affairs.

“The renewable energy standard in Ohio has helped propel the state into the Top 10 for solar jobs, with nearly four thousand Ohioans working in our industry today. Last year, $72 million were invested in solar in Ohio. According to both the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and Ohio Advanced Energy Economy, this bill will raise electricity prices. It will also kill jobs and stop Ohio’s transition to clean, renewable energy. Clearly, this legislation represents a step backward for the state’s economy.”

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About SEIA: 
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, 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 atwww.seia.org.

Media Contacts: 
Ken Johnson, SEIA Vice President of Communications, kjohnson@seia.org (202) 556-2885
Samantha Page, SEIA Press Officer and Communications Manager, spage@seia.org (202) 556-2886