As a rule, business interests and environmental advocates rarely agree, but a new solar-power access plan in Arkansas may be the exception. Backed by support from conservationists, such as the Audubon Society, and industry groups like the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association, state lawmakers have approved a bill that makes it easier to access and deploy solar energy. Gary Moody with Audubon Arkansas says solar energy’s low-carbon footprint, along with its ability to create jobs, brought everyone together.
The measure officially becomes law this week. Moody says it allows for third-party purchasing, which means a resident or business can lease a solar-energy system. It will also increase the solar size limit and adds grandfathering to protect customers from future rate increases.