West Coast solar energy companies remain critical about a plan that is projected to expand sun power in South Carolina after years of reticence from utilities toward renewable energy in the Palmetto State.
While no longer opposing the solar bill as they had earlier this spring, The Alliance for Solar Choice and TUSK organizations said Thursday the legislation still favors utilities over private sun energy companies.
The alliance said the bill, which awaits only Gov. Nikki Haley’s approval, isn’t strong enough to bring national solar companies into South Carolina to help people install more affordable sun energy systems. Both groups represent some of the nation’s most prominent solar companies, which provide lower-cost solar energy systems to individual homeowners and businesses.
“It doesn’t necessarily increase choice and competition for the average Joe,” said Bryan Miller, who heads the California-headquartered alliance.
TUSK, short for Tell Utilities Solar won’t be Killed, said the bill is not model legislation for other states looking to increase more rooftop solar. TUSK is from Arizona.
“The final legislation is far from where it should be to truly grow the market in South Carolina,” TUSK said in a news release Thursday.