BOISE, Idaho — Almost 100 activists took to the steps of the Statehouse to call for equitable, affordable and accessible solar power for all Idahoans.
The Sierra Club's Idaho chapter hosted the rally Saturday morning. Chapter Director Lisa Young says more solar projects in the Gem State can help combat climate change.
"As we see the effects of climate change all around us - the extreme heat, the wildfire smoke - it's more important than ever that we transition to clean energy as quickly as possible," Young said.
The group says change starts with getting as many Idahoans involved in solar power as possible. There has been federal funding for solar power in Idaho, including $56 million in EPA grants under the Solar for All program. About 17,000 Idaho households have also taken advantage of solar or energy efficiency incentives, totaling roughly $43 million in tax cuts.
"We have investments from the federal government that are coming in, billions of dollars around the country, including Idaho, to move our community towards clean energy," Young said. "But we have utilities [companies] and regulators creating these roadblocks."
The Sierra Club is calling for Idaho's rooftop solar rates to be lowered, and for utilities companies and regulators to create a way for communities to own solar projects.
"Community solar is a way for people to benefit from solar across the whole community without needing to put solar on your own roof," Young said. "So you can put solar on a local community building. Community members can subscribe to those panels, and then you can get a credit on your bill that reduces your power bill."
Young says community solar projects can help with clean energy, build community resilience and lower power bills - opening up opportunities for low-income households.