On a sun-drenched day, Governor Ned Lamont joined state and local officials at Tisko Elementary School in Branford to promote his bill that would make it easier and more affordable for schools to install solar energy systems.
This legislation is one of four major climate bills awaiting legislative action this session. After a year with no climate change-focused legislation passing, there is anxiety about whether any of these bills will succeed.
Lamont emphasized the importance of the bills, stating that they are crucial for the community and the environment. He highlighted the cost-saving benefits of solar energy for schools and the positive impact it has on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
However, one of the bills, a broad-based measure targeting the causes of climate change, has faced setbacks. The Appropriations Committee removed all sections with a fiscal impact, leaving a significantly reduced version of the bill. Its sponsor, Rep. Christine Palm, plans to attempt reinserting these components on the floor.
Palm’s bill initially aimed to address climate change by implementing various initiatives, including increasing energy storage, installing heat pumps, exploring the reduction of natural gas use, and establishing incentives for green energy development and jobs.
Despite the challenges, Palm remains committed to the bill and believes it can pass with the support of the House Speaker.
Another major bill, focused on climate resilience, has also encountered opposition. The bill authorizes municipalities to create taxing districts to fund resilience projects. However, concerns have been raised about the potential burden on municipalities and the authority it grants to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection commissioner.
The governor’s solar energy bill has passed through the Appropriations Committee without Republican support. The bill aims to establish a competitive solar and storage program for schools, but a requirement for all school districts to conduct solar feasibility assessments by October has faced pushback due to its cost and tight timeframe.
Despite these setbacks, advocates argue that the bills are essential for addressing climate change and creating jobs. They emphasize the need for a transition to a green economy and the benefits of renewable energy development.
However, skepticism remains among some legislators, with concerns over the costs and potential impacts of the proposed measures. The outcome of these bills remains uncertain as the legislative session progresses.
