Tennessee

Solar Legislator Score: *

Home to Elvis and the great Nashville music scene, Tennessee is also known for its mountains and rivers. With a little bit of everything under the sun, how is Tennessee harnessing the power of clean energy to preserve the environment for years to come? Well, not much is happening yet, but read on to find out.

STATE LEGISLATION
In the past 2 years Tennessee’s legislative record on solar energy has been non-existent to be polite. Governor Bredeson hasn’t even mentioned the words “solar energy” in the past two years. So, for the moment, the solar energy market is all volunteer in Tennessee.

NET-METERING
As of 2007, Tennessee doesn’t have a net metering policy, so it’s a utility company free for all.

EXAMPLE 3KW SYSTEM – HOME INSTALLATION COST
Installing a typical 3kW solar electricity system in Memphis would cost about $54,000, but the federal tax credit of $2,000 does apply. The state solar rating is Good, so it would take about 30 years for the system to pay for itself. The real savings however, comes from the fact that you’d be saving over $850 each year on your utility bills while raising your property value over $10,000. Lastly, but most importantly, you’d be keeping 160 tons of greenhouse gasses out of the atmosphere.

CONSENSUS
Well volunteers, your legislature has let you down on solar energy and other renewable power sources. It’s time to get down to business and make solar power a priority in Tennessee. Maybe it’s time for new faces in the capitol; let’s get some people who will take action to protect the environment and promote clean energy.

http://www.solarpowerrocks.com/tennessee/