Harvest The Sun Alliance

Harvest the
SUN ALLIANCE

We support utility-solar energy based on our strong community values supporting local economic growth, energy independence, national security, and free-market competition. Did you know, the State of Texas is only second to California, with Florida right behind it, in expanding, operating, and benefiting from utility-solar energy?

Our coalition is dedicated to sharing proven and authoritative sources of information that our community deserves. Here are the proven and well established reasons why we support opportunities for new solar energy in our community. If you agree, then please sign our petition in support below:

Reducing reliance on foreign oil and fossil fuel imports strengthens America’s energy security.
A diversified energy grid that includes solar, makes the U.S. less dependent on adversarial nations for energy resources.

The solar industry creates thousands of high-paying American jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
Supporting solar energy fosters private-sector innovation and market expansion without government overreach.

Utility-scale solar reduces long-term electricity costs for businesses, farms, and homeowners.
Lower energy prices make U.S. manufacturing more competitive globally.

Expanding solar energy allows for greater competition in the energy market, reducing monopolies in the utility sector.
Market-driven advancements in solar technology increase efficiency and affordability, making it a smart investment.

Protecting the environment aligns with traditional conservative values.
Using clean energy to reduce pollution ensures a healthier environment for future generations without heavy government regulation.

Fossil fuels and nuclear energy receive billions in government subsidies—supporting solar can help transition to a market-driven energy economy with fewer government handouts.

Many farmers and landowners lease land for solar farms, providing additional income, while enabling them to own their land for the next generation.
Solar energy can power irrigation systems and agricultural operations, reducing reliance on expensive diesel generators.

Investing in solar allows businesses to control their energy future and increase profitability.

Supporting solar energy doesn’t mean abandoning oil, gas, or nuclear—it means embracing an all-of-the-above energy strategy that strengthens America’s position as a global energy leader.

Job Creation

Short-Term Employment (Construction Phase): During the construction of solar PV installations, many workers are needed for site preparation, installation of panels, electrical work, and infrastructure development. This influx of labor supports local economies through wages and spending.

Long-Term Employment (Operational Phase): Once the solar plant is operational, there are ongoing jobs related to the maintenance and monitoring of the solar panels, system repairs, and operations management. These jobs tend to be stable and can last for the life of the facility (typically 25-30 years or more).

Indirect Jobs & Related Economic Benefits

Supply Chain Jobs: Beyond the direct workers on-site, there are numerous indirect jobs that arise as a result of the demand for materials (such as solar panels, inverters, and construction equipment) and services (such as logistics and transportation).

Increased Local Spending: Workers involved in the construction and operation of the solar farm often live in the surrounding area, contributing to the local economy by spending their earnings on housing, groceries, healthcare, and other services. This "induced" spending boosts local businesses and stimulates economic growth.

Sustainability

Solar energy significantly reduces carbon emissions by generating electricity without burning fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas. Unlike these traditional energy sources, solar panels produce power without releasing greenhouse gases, making them a vital tool in combating climate change. This clean energy alternative also helps decrease air pollution, improving public health and reducing the risks of respiratory and cardiovascular issues caused by poor air quality.

Sustainable Development: With solar energy generating a clean power source, the community benefits from reduced environmental impact, potentially attracting environmentally-conscious businesses and tourists, further boosting the local economy.

Community

Increased Revenue: Solar PV projects typically result in higher property taxes and other local taxes, contributing significantly to the local tax base. These funds can be used to support public services and community development projects.

Local Government Support: This additional revenue can allow local governments to improve or expand public infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and emergency services. Enhanced public services can further improve the quality of life for residents.

Education

Solar energy supports education by providing funding for programs and initiatives that promote learning and innovation. Many solar companies and renewable energy organizations invest in schools and communities, offering grants, scholarships, and resources for educational programs. These funds help equip classrooms with modern technology, improve facilities, and create hands-on learning opportunities for students, particularly in areas impacted by economic challenges.

Additionally, solar energy fosters the development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers by inspiring the next generation of innovators. Solar projects often serve as educational tools, allowing students to learn about renewable energy systems, engineering principles, and sustainable practices. By engaging with solar technologies, students gain practical skills and exposure to growing career fields in renewable energy. Furthermore, solar energy initiatives raise environmental awareness, teaching students and communities about the importance of sustainability, climate action, and responsible energy use, empowering them to make informed decisions for a greener future.

Development

Solar energy has the potential to significantly reduce energy costs for households, businesses, and public institutions. By generating electricity from sunlight, solar power lowers utility bills and provides long-term savings, enabling funds to be redirected toward other critical areas of growth. For businesses, these savings can support expansion and job creation, while for municipalities, they can be reinvested in community programs and public services.

Additionally, solar energy improves infrastructure by driving advancements in energy systems and modernizing grids. Solar installations often include updates to electrical networks, energy storage solutions, and smart grid technologies, enhancing reliability and efficiency. Beyond economic and infrastructural benefits, solar energy fosters environmental responsibility by promoting a shift to renewable energy sources. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels, curtails greenhouse gas emissions, and encourages sustainable practices, creating a foundation for healthier, more resilient communities.

Lower Wholesale Energy Prices:

When solar farms produce energy on a large scale, they contribute to the overall electricity supply, which can lower wholesale prices, especially during times of high solar production (e.g., sunny days).

Energy Price Stability:

Solar farms can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which can be subject to price volatility. The relatively stable cost of solar power (since sunlight is free) can help stabilize energy prices in the long term.

Potential for Lower Utility Bills:

In areas with significant solar farm development, utilities may be able to reduce their reliance on expensive fossil fuels and provide cleaner, cheaper energy to customers.

Renewable Energy Standards:

Some governments set renewable energy targets that encourage the growth of solar farms, potentially leading to lower electricity costs as the proportion of renewable energy increases in the energy mix.

Property Taxes

Increased Taxable Property Value: Solar farms typically result in an increase in the assessed value of the land where they are built. In many areas, the addition of solar panels to land increases the land’s taxable value, meaning the owner of the solar farm (whether a company or a private entity) will pay more in property taxes.

Tax Payments from Solar Companies: Large-scale solar farms are usually owned by companies, and those companies are subject to paying property taxes on the land and infrastructure associated with the farm (such as solar panels, inverters, and other equipment).

Sales and Use Taxes

Sales of Solar Equipment: In some areas, the purchase of equipment needed for the construction of solar farms (solar panels, inverters, etc.) is subject to sales tax. This can contribute significantly to local tax revenues, especially if the solar farm is large and requires substantial equipment purchases.

Tax on Development and Construction: During the development phase of solar farms, local municipalities may see an increase in sales taxes from construction materials, labor, and other services required to build the farm.

Impact on Local Jobs and Income Taxes

Job Creation: The construction, operation, and maintenance of solar farms create jobs in local communities. Workers employed in the solar industry are subject to income taxes, and these tax payments contribute to local tax revenues. This includes direct employment (e.g., construction workers, solar technicians) and indirect employment (e.g., suppliers, service providers).

Ongoing Local Employment: Once operational, solar farms typically require maintenance staff and other personnel, which generates further local income tax revenue.

Media

Solar energy enhances communities by visibly showcasing a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Solar installations on homes, businesses, and public spaces reduce carbon footprints and inspire residents to adopt eco-friendly practices. This visible shift toward renewable energy fosters community pride and motivates surrounding areas to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positive environmental change.

In addition to promoting sustainability, solar energy drives innovation and strengthens trust within the community. By integrating advanced technology into local infrastructure, solar projects attract investment, support economic growth, and open opportunities for education and collaboration in renewable energy. Furthermore, the tangible benefits of solar energy—such as lower energy costs, cleaner air, and reinvestment in public projects—demonstrate accountability and a focus on improving quality of life, fostering trust and unity among residents.

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Facts matter and solar energy has been around for decades with a demonstrated record of safety, security, and sustainability. Our coalition trusts the facts and the track record, not the disinformation.

Please sign the petition if you agree with our Top Reasons to support a diversified power grid, economic growth, and energy independence. By signing the petition, you’re also authorizing the coalition to give you periodic updates on email.

For more information, please go to our coalition Facebook page and Follow, Like and Share.

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