We should applaud Sens. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., and Dean Heller, R-Nev., for reaching across party lines and taking another step toward developing sustainable energy sources. Like any concerned citizen, I am oftentimes frustrated with our elected officials when they refuse to compromise or work with opposition parties. That is why their bill gives me hope. It is a sign that our elected officials can work together on the issues that affect us all, which certainly include the energy crisis and solar power. Solar tax credits, throughout the building process, will add to the growing momentum for solar energy in Colorado — hopefully breaking down one of the most commonly cited barriers to solar energy: installation cost. And really, why shouldn’t we encourage solar development when our state enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year and is considered one of the top states for solar energy potential? I encourage others to reach out and tell their elected officials that they support this bill and others like it. Perhaps together we can push our lawmakers to continue reaching across party lines to solve the issues that directly affect us all.
Ben Kinzel
Denver