Heinrich Amends Solar Technology Roadmap Act To Guarantee Public Input

Press Release

Today, U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) successfully amended H.R. 3585, the Solar Technology Roadmap Act, to require the Act's Solar Technology Roadmap Committee to release a draft roadmap at least one month prior to publication in order to ensure the public has the opportunity to provide their input. H.R. 3585 would develop a concrete plan for the research and development of American-made solar technology, and build upon the investments in the Recovery Act and the American Clean Energy Security Act to move our country toward energy independence and economic recovery. Rep. Heinrich's amendment passed the House unanimously.

"This amendment will ensure that the roadmap reflects the wisdom and experiences of individuals and businesses that work in this industry," said Rep. Heinrich on the House floor today. "Incorporating public comments will ensure that the solar roadmap is an efficient, effective blue print for meeting our full potential in utilizing solar energy."

The Solar Technology Roadmap Act establishes a comprehensive process to facilitate the research, development and demonstration of American solar technology in partnership with the private sector. It requires the Secretary of Energy to appoint an 11-member Solar Technology Roadmap Committee to write, review and update a Solar Technology Roadmap.

The Roadmap will lay out short-term and long-term objectives for solar technology research and development while accounting for, and mitigating, any negative environmental impacts. It will provide a path forward to make solar technology more dependable and widely available to American consumers. The Roadmap will also authorize the Department of Energy to award grants to entrepreneurs, research agencies and academic laboratories that are leading the field in solar tech development and solar manufacturing.

H.R. 3585 passed the U.S. House of Representatives today by a vote of 310-106. Rep. Heinrich is a member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition.

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