Federal Initiatives
Currently, most leadership on renewable energy issues is at the state level. In the case of solar energy, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 contained several pro-solar elements, and was the first substantial federal legislation to support solar energy in 20 years. The most important is a 30% investment tax credit, effectively making solar installations 30% cheaper. Check out the Solar Energy Industries Association's tax guide for more information.
Unfortunately, these important tax credits are already set to expire at the end of 2007. Extending these tax credits is absolutely essential for providing the solar industry with the security it needs to make the necessary investments to bring solar into the mainstream. Check the Act Now page for the latest in advocacy opportunities.
In addition, Sections 1251 and 1254 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 require state regulatory commission to review net metering and interconnection standards. While it does not compel states to develop good standards, it does provide a good opportunity for intervention.
Vote Solar recently prepared a white paper (PDF) on the opportunities for federal action.