Local governments and tribal nations have an opportunity to save money and create jobs by joining the growing renewable energy economy, according to a new publication to be released later in May from the University of Wisconsin-Extension. Solar Energy Financing Guide: Empowering Wisconsin Local Governments covers financing for solar projects ranging from local and tribal governments installing solar systems on their own roofs and land, to assisting local businesses and residents with acquiring solar. It includes case studies of successful solar energy systems across the state, and outlines creative local government actions, strategies and partnerships that can lay the groundwork for financing those systems.
Sherrie Gruder, Sustainable Design & Energy Specialist with the Environmental Resources Center of UW-Extension and author of the new guide, notes that there are a number of reasons why advancing solar energy can be a good move for local governments, “Solar energy supports lower electricity bills, greater energy independence and resilience by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, clean air and lower carbon emissions, and job growth by providing new, good-paying jobs and training for workforce development,” says Gruder.
Solar energy is more widely affordable now as a result of dramatically falling prices of solar equipment, as well as innovative financing approaches and partnerships. UW-Extension research has uncovered multiple paths and sources used by Wisconsin municipalities, tribes and school districts to finance solar development that reduces costs and enables residents and businesses to invest in solar. “The Solar Energy Financing Guide’s state-centric approach is powerful”, stated a city council member who previewed the Guide. “This is not some people somewhere doing something we can’t do because of our climate/culture/economics. This is Wisconsin leading Wisconsin.” *** Update: Click here for access to the guide