When it comes to meeting the United States’ future carbon reduction goals, Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Ernest Moniz says solar energy is “critical” to these plans.

Secretary Moniz offered that acknowledgment as part of his keynote address this week in Las Vegas at Solar Power International (SPI), the largest solar trade show in America, co-sponsored by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). 

"Cost reduction, as we have seen dramatically in solar energy, is very much a part of shaping our clean energy future," Moniz said. "We've seen costs of modules decline by nearly 80 percent.

"Some of the world's largest companies are deploying solar on a massive scale – Apple, FedEx, GM, Google, Walmart and many more," he added.  Moniz also pointed out that 85 percent of America's energy, with a big assist from renewable energy sources such as solar, is now homegrown. 

Secretary Moniz went on to say: "We are big on solar. The fundamental case is extremely strong, built on both technology and business model innovation, but we have to keep working together to grow solar in this country."

These remarks brought loud applause from the thousands of people taking part at SPI.  With his broad knowledge of solar, and the benefits it provides to both our economy and environment, Secretary Moniz is uniquely positioned to help our industry continue its remarkable growth.  He understands our many challenges and is working with his team and others in the White House to assist us in developing innovative, market-driven solutions.  We applaud his commitment to America's clean energy future.

In earlier remarks at SPI's general session, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said key public policies, such as the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) are paying huge dividends for the American economy. 

"These incentives help to make solar more affordable to consumers and more attractive to investors. Letting these critically important incentives expire is not an option," he said. 

Senator Reid went on to point out the rapid growth of solar in his home state of Nevada. 

Today, there are 480 MW of solar energy installed in Nevada, ranking the state 6th in the nation in installed solar capacity. There is enough solar energy installed in the state to power 72,900 homes – or a city the size of the state capital of Carson City. 

Senator Reid has worked tirelessly to advance the cause of clean energy in America – especially when it comes to solar. Through his outstanding leadership and support of smart, effective public policies, solar continues to be one of the fastest-growing industries in America, creating thousands of jobs, pumping billions of dollars into the U.S. economy and helping to protect the environment.  This incredible growth will certainly be part of Senator Reid's rich legacy.