Missouri Rep. Ben KeathleyRc-inield, and Sen. Curtis TrentR-Springfield, both have announced the introduction of legislation that set up a three-year community pilot program for the community in Missouri. HB 662 and his accompanying bill in the Senate, SB 386Will offer access to affordable energy throughout the state and serve as a launch platform for growing a strong community sector in Missouri. HB 662 was referred to the Emerging Issues Committee.
“I am proud that the community legislation of the community sponsors that Missourians will protect against rising utility rates, making energy costs more predictable and more manageable for families in the working class,” said Rep. Ben Keathley. “In addition to reducing electrical accounts, this program will stimulate economic development, create good paying jobs, support family farms and help build an energy industry that will have a real impact on our local economies.”
As a net importer of energy, the legislation would increase the amount of homegrown in Missouri, which means that it must be imported from neighboring countries. It also enables local owners of real estate, farmers and small companies to take advantage, to generate income and support local economic growth.
“Current legislation stifles innovation on the energy markets of Missouri. With Community Zoningen, the legislators have the opportunity to cut the bureaucracy and introduce another tool to the aforementioned approach to the state of the state, ”said Matthew Hargarts, vice-president of the government and public affairs at the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA). “This legislation gets kicking in the ground and brings more energy choices, more competition and more opportunities for families in Missouri.”
Missouri is in 36th place Nationally in installed solar capacity. National, 22 States and the District of Columbia have assumed policy that makes community programs possible for the community.
News item from THe coalition for Community Solar access (CCSA)