WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following is a statement from Dan Whitten, vice president of communications for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), on federal judges’ rejection of efforts to block states from developing plans under EPA's carbon rule for existing power plants.

"The decision by the court to allow states to continue work on their carbon reduction plans under the President’s Clean Power Plan is a victory for advocates of clean energy everywhere. State regulators can now begin to incorporate a significantly growing role for solar power into their long-term energy planning.

"Smart industry, financial and government leaders are already betting on the Clean Power Plan by moving forward with initiatives and policies to advance a clean energy economy. The solar Investment Tax Credit extension enacted late last year is a great example of recent policy that can speed emissions reductions. The extension is a powerful job-creating engine that is leading Americans to derive a growing share of their electricity from the sun.

"Solar companies across the country support the Clean Power Plan and are already innovating and transitioning to a clean energy economy. Solar is the most affordable form of carbon-free energy that states can employ to meet Clean Power Plan requirements."

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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 Contact:

Alex Hobson, SEIA Press Officer & Communications Manager, [email protected] (202) 556-2886