CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Advocates say public support for all types of solar projects and concepts is increasing across the state as three pieces of related legislation are considered by state lawmakers.
Bills relating to community solar programs, HB 4834, net metering, HB 5422, and the creation of a community solar pilot program, SB 638, are before lawmakers.
Bill supporters are hopeful for movement in the second half of the 60-day session.
Echelon Insights representative Patrick Rufini said more than 75% of state residents want families to have the right to own and benefit from their own solar panels. In addition, nearly 70% of those polled were in support of community solar initiatives, which would allow residential customers to tap into power from nearby solar panels without installing them at their own homes.
The data also said 65% of the Republicans, Independents, and Democrats polled would not approve of a…
