On May 10,2011 leading solar advocates, integrators, and solar associations met on the state capitol steps to promote solar energy in Oregon. The focus of the rally was to bring attention to the issues facing solar in Oregon, and garner support for legislative action relating to solar activities.
Leading Oregon solar integrators in attendance included Advanced Energy Systems, Solar City, Abound Solar, Sustainable Utility Networks (SUN), and National Solar. Oregon Electric Group was also in attendance, and provided a solar display. Speakers included rally organizer Ron (Mac) McDowell of Solar Oregon, Matthew Lind of Advanced Energy Systems (co-organizer), Mark Pengilly an industry lobbyist from Energize Oregon, Steve Leslie of Competitive Commercial Roofing, Rob Bennett of Solar City. Also in attendance was a large contingent from OREP (Oregonians for Renewable Energy Policy), Kevin Keene from SolarWorld of Hillsboro.
Glenn Montgomery, director of OSEIA (Oregon Solar Energy Industry Association) was a featured speaker, and urged all attendees to be involved with the legislature to promote the solar industry. The common theme throughout the rally was the promotion, and advancement of solar energy in Oregon, and renewable energy in general. Current Oregon budget woes have brought increased pressure on state incentives, and tax credits which are vital to the solar industry. Calling attention to the advancements made in past years, and the success of solar in Oregon, speakers and advocates energized the crowd, and demonstrated that Oregon has a viable solar industry, and that many solar jobs are at risk if legislative support is removed.
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| A diverse group on solar advocates rallies at the state capitol on May 10, 2011. |
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| Kevin Keene of SolarWorld addresses the crowd. |
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| A diverse group came together on behalf of solar energy. |
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| Oregonians for Solar Power |
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| Glenn Montgomery of OSEIA gives a keynote address. |
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