Solar Panels: A Homeowners Right to Rebate


Solar Panels: A Homeowners Right to Rebate
The Issue
The Opportunity:
British Columbia has the potential to be at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. Currently there is insufficient funding to promote the use of alternative energy resources at the residential level. For BC residents keen to reduce their ecological footprint there is a lack of financial incentives to implement renewable energy technologies such as solar panels. A rebate would encourage the purchase of solar technology thereby reducing the ecological footprint of individuals through a lowering of greenhouse gas emissions at the residential level. Ultimately such changes will be paramount in combating global climate change.
We, the citizens of British Columbia, petition the government of Canada to offer reduction of costs associated with solar panel installation on private residences.
Background Information:
Solar power has been harnessed globally for decades, with Germany, China and Italy leading in the practice. In 2015, the world’s solar energy capacity reached 200 GW, double the amount available 2.5 years ago. Germany, a country that is experiences less sunshine than British Columbia, was able to contribute 5.7% of their national energy use from solar panels, at 30 GW.
It has been determined that in coastal British Columbia, 1 kW solar panel is capable of generating about 1,100 kWh/year, while in the East Kootenays a panel has the potential to generate a comparable 1,200 kWh/year. Though the cost of solar panels continue to decrease due to technological improvements, the prices remain cost prohibitive. It is time for our government to support this growing change for a cleaner energy source.
Solar energy is reliable and inexhaustible. We have only begun to realize the full potential of capitalizing on this limitless resource.
Current Government Commitments:
- Invest an extra $100 million more in supporting clean-tech companies
- Shift federal subsidies away from fossil fuels and into renewables
- Create a $2 billion fund to support projects aimed at cutting carbon emissions
- Partner with the private sector to unlock venture capital
- Support energy efficiency and electric vehicles
- Work with the provinces to combat climate change through carbon pricing and developing green power sources
The Potential:
Through a rebate on the costs associated with the purchase and installation of solar panels, homeowners will not only save money but they will also assist the Federal Government in achieving its goals in emissions reductions as per the Paris Agreement. The aim is to create a low-carbon economy and reduce emission levels by 30% by 2030.
By signing the petition you are supporting the campaign to have the Federal Government of Canada commit to providing solar technology incentives for BC residents up to 50% of each individual project's costs. Furthermore you pledge to undertake the installation of a solar panel rooftop system of between 5 and 10 kW should this incentive be formalized.
Supporting Documentation:
The Issue
The Opportunity:
British Columbia has the potential to be at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. Currently there is insufficient funding to promote the use of alternative energy resources at the residential level. For BC residents keen to reduce their ecological footprint there is a lack of financial incentives to implement renewable energy technologies such as solar panels. A rebate would encourage the purchase of solar technology thereby reducing the ecological footprint of individuals through a lowering of greenhouse gas emissions at the residential level. Ultimately such changes will be paramount in combating global climate change.
We, the citizens of British Columbia, petition the government of Canada to offer reduction of costs associated with solar panel installation on private residences.
Background Information:
Solar power has been harnessed globally for decades, with Germany, China and Italy leading in the practice. In 2015, the world’s solar energy capacity reached 200 GW, double the amount available 2.5 years ago. Germany, a country that is experiences less sunshine than British Columbia, was able to contribute 5.7% of their national energy use from solar panels, at 30 GW.
It has been determined that in coastal British Columbia, 1 kW solar panel is capable of generating about 1,100 kWh/year, while in the East Kootenays a panel has the potential to generate a comparable 1,200 kWh/year. Though the cost of solar panels continue to decrease due to technological improvements, the prices remain cost prohibitive. It is time for our government to support this growing change for a cleaner energy source.
Solar energy is reliable and inexhaustible. We have only begun to realize the full potential of capitalizing on this limitless resource.
Current Government Commitments:
- Invest an extra $100 million more in supporting clean-tech companies
- Shift federal subsidies away from fossil fuels and into renewables
- Create a $2 billion fund to support projects aimed at cutting carbon emissions
- Partner with the private sector to unlock venture capital
- Support energy efficiency and electric vehicles
- Work with the provinces to combat climate change through carbon pricing and developing green power sources
The Potential:
Through a rebate on the costs associated with the purchase and installation of solar panels, homeowners will not only save money but they will also assist the Federal Government in achieving its goals in emissions reductions as per the Paris Agreement. The aim is to create a low-carbon economy and reduce emission levels by 30% by 2030.
By signing the petition you are supporting the campaign to have the Federal Government of Canada commit to providing solar technology incentives for BC residents up to 50% of each individual project's costs. Furthermore you pledge to undertake the installation of a solar panel rooftop system of between 5 and 10 kW should this incentive be formalized.
Supporting Documentation:
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Petition created on December 20, 2015