Solar Technology Roadmap Act

Floor Speech

Solar Technology Roadmap Act

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Mr. HEINRICH. Mr. Chairman, I rise today as a proud cosponsor of the Solar Technology Roadmap Act of 2010, and I want to especially thank my colleague from Arizona (Ms. Giffords) for introducing and championing this important legislation.

As a member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, I'm particularly proud to support this coalition priority. My home State of New Mexico averages more than 300 days of sunshine each year and is second in the Nation for solar energy potential, so I have a great appreciation for the positive impact that this bill will have.

In New Mexico, even in the midst of this difficult recession, we are adding jobs in the solar energy sector. Many New Mexicans, myself included, power their homes using solar energy, and Sandia National Labs is a world leader in developing new solar technologies, such as Stirling engines and multijunction solar cells.

The amendment I'm offering today would require the act's solar technology road map committee to release a draft road map at least 1 month prior to publication in order to ensure that the public has the opportunity to provide their input. Our government works best when the American public is included in the decisionmaking process. This amendment will ensure that the road map reflects the wisdom and experiences of individuals and businesses that already work in this quickly growing industry.

In order for our country to reach its potential in growing the clean energy economy, the Federal Government must invest wisely in research and development. Incorporating public comments will ensure that the solar road map is an efficient, effective blueprint for meeting our full potential in utilizing solar energy.

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