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Solar Future Bright In California

The future looks bright for solar power in the nation and San Diego County under an Obama Administration. An energy official expects California will be one of the state's gaining from the federal sti

Solar Future Bright In California

The future looks bright for solar power in the nation and San Diego County under an Obama Administration. An energy official expects California  will be one of the state's gaining from the federal stimulus plan. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce explains.

The incoming administration wants to spur the development of renewable energy - to reduce the country's dependence on imported oil and to create jobs.  

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In his inauguration speech, President Barack Obama says he wants to harness the sun's energy.

Andrew McAllister of the California Center For Sustainable Energy says it's likely the federal stimulus package will provide financial incentives for businesses and homeowners converting to solar energy systems.

McAllister: There's a lot of energy efficiency that's planned for that, there's sort of linking to job creation, weatherization; stimulating local economies to provide the kinds of services that are going to pay clean energy dividends down the road is a really excellent thing to be investing in.

McAllister says federal incentives will reduce costs even more in California.

That's because a new state law allows homeowners and businesses to get low-interest financing to install solar energy systems.

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Ed Joyce, KPBS News.

 

A big decision awaits some voters this July as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.