Policy Resolution ETE-17-16

WHEREAS, The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) supports the ability of residential and business customers to generate their own electricity through solar panels (i.e., distributed generation) as a key pathway to energy democracy whereby communities can own solar panels and be partners in the nation’s electricity infrastructure;

WHEREAS, solar success in America is the promotion of innovation and procompetitive behavior in solar markets; and

WHEREAS, Solar Leasing Disclosure Statements should be streamlined statements designed to help solar customers understand the terms and costs of solar leasing and not intended to be a substitute for reading the contract, lease and other documents associated with a solar transaction.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in an effort to make going solar as effortless and streamlined as possible, the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) recommends members become educated on solar financing options available, contracting terms to be aware of, and other useful tips;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NBCSL will work with the Federal Trade Commission and other appropriate organizations to develop a guide for homeowners that provides insight on solar financing, including leases and loans;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NBCSL believes that the protection of consumers should be a priority for both state and federal governments;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that NBCSL encourages state policymakers to increase their awareness to ensure consumers are protected and accountable for their respective states, and to consider introducing consumer protection legislation in their State Legislatures;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that NBCSL work through the local, state and federal agencies to ensure that the solar leasing industry will be closely monitored and appropriately regulated to ensure the protection of our communities; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, Vice President of the United States, members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, and other federal and state government officials as appropriate.

• SPONSOR: Representative Billy Mitchell (GA)
• Committee of Jurisdiction: Energy, Transportation, and Environment Policy Committee
• Certified by Committee Co-Chair: Representative Billy Mitchell (GA)
• Ratified in Plenary Session: Ratification Date is December 3, 2016