Below is a press release from the Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association (GSREIA):
The trade association representing companies that manufacturer, develop, install and finance solar power for schools, homes and communities announced its support for the Mississippi Public Service Commission’s rule to expand the solar industry in Mississippi.
Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association (GSREIA) is a trade group representing Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana solar companies. The association has been working with the PSC and other Mississippi stakeholders since 2015 to establish and improve the state’s solar development rules. These companies impact from improved policies represent $30m dollars of investment annually in Mississippi and will employ over 300 people in the state.
“We commend and support the Public Service Commission’s recently adopted rule to increase solar jobs and create additional economic growth generated by the solar industry in Mississippi. We are now working with all stakeholders to develop modifications to preserve the rule and allow the program to move forward without undue delay”, said Stephen Wright, Director of GSREIA.
“The State of Mississippi has proven that providing tax and other incentives to companies such as Nissan, Toyota and Continental Tire is an effective means of attracting and growing new industries in the State. These new solar incentives will position Mississippi to effectively compete for solar manufacturers, builders and financiers in a highly competitive market”, said Wright.
The rule creates a new “Solar for Schools” program that will allow public schools to generate non-taxpayer revenue, save money on electricity and apply the revenue and savings to teacher pay and other essential services. “It is a win/win for public education, the economy and the environment.”
The rule also will increase access to rooftop solar for Mississippi ratepayers by providing upfront rebates for low and moderate income households, increasing the number of households that qualify for the rebate and provides upfront rebates for installation of battery storage equipment for all ratepayers.
This rule will improve our energy resiliency, increase energy security and lower the cost of electricity for all Mississippians by cutting demand and the need to build expensive peak
load power plants such as the failed Kemper Power plant in the future.
“We look forward to the final adoption of this rule and to participating in creating new jobs, economic growth and access to clean, cheap energy for all Mississippians”, Wright concluded.
