California is leading the way for the rest of the western world with a new scheme that will see free solar panels being given to the poorest residents in the state, in order to help minimize their utility bills while they get themselves back on their feet.
SB 535, a bill introduced by Senator Kevin de León will see the non-profit GRID Alternatives giving away 1,600 free solar panels to destitute California residents, using funds from its Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GCRF) that is intended to reduce and discourage carbon dioxide emissions in the state.
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Speaking of the bill, Senator León said: “I introduced SB 535 in 2011 to ensure that our disproportionately impacted communities benefit from investments in clean energy. These investments will bring energy savings, quality jobs, and environmental benefits where they are needed most.”
Senator Kevin de León standing alongside GRID Alternatives employees.
One resident who will benefit from SB 535 is Roy Rivera, a disabled man living on a fixed income in Sacremento. The introduction of a 2.5 kW solar electric system to his home should lead to savings of $818 per year, adding up to $22,800 savings over the scheme’s 30-year lifetime.
“We hope the savings will help defray some of my medical costs,” Mr. Rivera said. “When you have a budget like ours, which is stretched just about as far as you can go, it makes a big difference.”
In order to qualify for the solar panels residents must live in neighborhoods that are 80% below the median income level. Along with providing disadvantaged residents with a more affordable cost of living, the bill looks to also help produce cleaner energy in California.
Photo: Getty Images
(Via GRID Alternatives)
