Southwestern states could share solar power leadership in the U.S.
When it comes to solar power in Southern California and Arizona, both states enjoy plenty of sunshine year-round. Solar industries looking to build new solar power utility plants, or even to headquarter their operations often choose between the two southwestern states. So what is the best solar industry location?
Its not just about the number of sunny days. Arizona and California have both been considering how to lure solar power businesses to their turf. From zoning laws, tax breaks and other incentives – including affordable housing and inexpensive workforces – the two states have plenty to consider in laying the groundwork for a thriving solar industry.
Signs indicate that Arizona and California will be working together in advancing the renewable energy resource, in some respects.
Southern California solar rooftop
For California’s part, the state’s current economic crisis mandates that it find new industries to develop and export, beyond tourism. The Golden State can help Arizona build its own nascent solar industry, while boosting its struggling economy. Building solar industry in Arizona and California will allow – and require – both states to draw on their strengths.
New, utility-scale solar projects are springing up across the desert southwest. In order to maintain this growth in the face of strong competitors, like China, Arizona and California will have to be able to point to incentives that encourage the siting of manufacturing plants here in the U.S. Already, Suntech is planning a new plant in Arizona. With tax breaks and the offer of a strong employment base, other overseas solar companies may also be drawn to set up shop here.
The future of Arizona solar power has been in some danger recently, with new legislation threatening to kill some incentives that lured Suntech to the state. Solar industry will be watching closely to make sure that political winds do not continue to shift. Yet the ample sunshine, and close working relationships between Arizona and California will likely mean that building solar industry in these states will continue to progress.
First Solar, Stirling Energy Systems and Suntech are among a number of solar businesses that are sowing the seeds of a solar future in the desert southwest.
Tags: arizona solar, best solar industry location, california solar, solar industry, solar industry location, solar power businesses, solar power utility plants
