WASHINGTON, D.C. – Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin was sworn in today for a third term and used his inaugural address, among other things, to outline an ambitious plan to increase the use of solar energy and other renewables across the state.  Following his remarks, Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), released the following statement:

“Once again, Gov. Shumlin has shown that he’s ahead of the curve when it comes to creative, forward-looking public policies which will create good-paying jobs, improve the state’s economy and help to protect the environment.  During his administration solar prices in Vermont have dropped by more than 60 percent, while his latest plan, an ambitious Energy Innovation Program, is likely to serve as a model for other states to follow.  We congratulate Gov. Shumlin for laying out an agenda for a clean energy economy which focuses on jobs, affordability, renewable energy and quality of life for all Vermonters.  It’s little wonder that he’s been such a successful and popular Governor.”

There are nearly 60 solar companies at work throughout the value chain in Vermont, employing more than 1,300 people. In 2013, $47 million was invested in Vermont to install solar for home, business and utility use.

From Q1 to Q3 of 2014, Vermont installed nearly double the amount of solar as in the same period the previous year. The 53 MW of solar energy currently installed in Vermont ranks the state 25th in the country in installed solar capacity and is enough to power 9,000 average American homes.

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About SEIA:

Celebrating its 41st anniversary in 2015, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contacts:

Ken Johnson, SEIA Vice President of Communications, [email protected] (202) 556-2885 
Samantha Page, SEIA Press Officer and Communications Manager, [email protected] (202) 556-2886