The Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2016 (SB 921) modifies the existing Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) in order to stimulate job and economic growth across the state. Maryland’s investment in renewable energy has paid dividends with more than 4,000 people now employed by the solar industry alone.
“GRID Alternatives, the nation's largest non-profit solar installer, opened its doors in Maryland in 2015. Here in Maryland, and across the country, we focus on providing both access to solar and job opportunities in this growing industry. We are proud to be part of the 4,000 and growing solar workers in Maryland. The passage of SB 921 will enable us to reach our mission of both diversifying the solar industry workforce and bringing solar to underserved communities in Maryland,” said Nicole Steele, Executive Director of GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic.
Legislators commented on the size of the group, which backed up entry around the block to the House Building. “SB 921 will ensure that the growth we have seen in Prince George’s County continues. We now have 680 solar workers in Prince George’s – we have hundreds with us here this morning to raise awareness about legislation important to them,” noted Delegate Davis of Prince George’s County. Solar workers in hard hats canvassed the halls for hours speaking with every office in both the House and Senate to spread the word about SB 921.
When asked why the Clean Energy Jobs Act is important now, Tony Clifford, CEO of Standard Solar, stated, “In 2014, the Maryland solar industry added jobs at a rate 40 times faster than the state’s overall economy. The Clean Energy Jobs Act will help Standard Solar and the rest of the Maryland solar industry maintain this rapid jobs growth while allowing new Maryland solar customers to save real money on their utility bills.”
More than 30 companies joined the event, bringing hundreds of employees to the state capitol to celebrate the announcement of the new Solar Foundation Jobs Census numbers and raise awareness of the importance of SB 921. Maryland legislators joined in, noting their support for the industry and its rapid growth.
“The strong policies implemented by the state of Maryland have resulted in significant growth of the solar industry year after year. Montgomery County alone is home to nearly 1,000 solar workers,” stated Delegate Frick of Montgomery County.
The Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2016 is a smart jobs investment policy for Maryland. The industry looks forward to working with legislators throughout session to discuss the positive impact the bill will have upon jobs in the state.
Media Contact
Dana Sleeper
info@mdvseia.org
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