Hobbies And Interests
Energy Independence and Security Act
Congress has amended NECPA many times. One amendment, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, had implications for solar energy. It required that 30 percent of the demand for hot water in new federal buildings and major renovations must be met with solar hot water equipment, "provided it is life-cycle cost-effective." This section demonstrates one of the main challenges of solar energy policies: striking a balance between reasonable, implementable requirements and setting the most beneficial standard.
Federal Energy Policy Act
Another amendment to NECPA, the Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005, required federal buildings to install 20,000 solar energy systems by 2010. Four years later, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 amended the Federal Energy Policy Act to extend loan guarantees to producers of renewable energy, such as solar energy. Congress has also passed policies to increase government use of solar power and offer tax incentives for individuals and businesses to use solar power.
Metering Policies
The Network for New Energy Choices in 2010 released its fourth annual report called "Freeing the Grid." Although the report is only advisory, some of its recommendations have become a reality. For example, the group's first report suggested that users of solar power could produce more power than they consume. One challenge for "Freeing the Grid" is addressing the energy concerns of all 50 states, whose needs for alternative energy are varied.
Organizations Involved in Policy-Making
Many organizations affect solar energy policy-making. These range from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to state programs and policies with local stipulations and amendments. It can be difficult to understand who is affected by any one policy, and how. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council has sought to lend clarity to policies, for individuals and businesses, for nearly three decades.