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Tampa Bay Solar’s Statement on the Passing of the Reconciliation Bill.

Statement from Steve Rutherford, Tampa Bay Solar President and CEO.

We were disappointed to see the passage of the Reconciliation Bill. Over the past decade we have seen significant progress and growth in the solar industry, here in Florida and nationwide. Now, this growth is jeopardized by the passage of the Reconciliation Bill. Solar tax credits are being eliminated, and by year’s end we will see never experienced economic downturns in the US’s infant solar industry.

In recent years, the growth of the solar industry has been substantial. We’ve gone from 1% solar penetration to 5%. Florida ranks number three in the country for solar with more than $18 billion invested, and more than 400 solar companies throughout our state. Florida alone has more than 20,000 solar employees and, close to my heart, approximately 10% of those are veterans.

At Tampa Bay Solar, the number of veterans is closer to 30%.

Now we face the possibility of slowed growth or more likely, decline. Currently, almost half of the Florida homeowners who installed solar panels over the past year relied on the current tax credit to help fund their projects. It allows Florida homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from taxes. That’s a significant savings which is then invested back into local communities. Without this credit, we’ll see Americans struggle to afford solar and we’ll see electricity costs continue to rise, by some estimates upwards of 25%. Beyond the consumer impact, we’ll see statewide economic impact, job losses, and business closures.
But here’s what I’ll tell you. We’ve been here for more than 13 years and expect to be here for decades more. I’ve been fighting the good fight throughout the state and nationwide, and I won’t let up. I know solar power is where the future is and I’m here to make sure my employees are protected, my customers are protected, and this industry is protected.
During my last tour in the military as a US Navy SEAL we were able to deliver a solar system into Afghanistan, saving on fuel runs, and ultimately saving lives. When I retired, it was the obvious course to start a solar company – one that provides jobs to local veterans, delivers solar power to our local community, and improves the sustainability of our planet. We’re not going to stop now.
While we’re disappointed, we’re not deterred. I urge you to continue reaching out to your representatives and tell them how important solar energy is to Florida, the country, and our planet. Let’s continue to move forward with growth and sustainability for Florida and our Nation.
Steve Rutherford,

Founder and CEO

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