The Oregon Lottery is gambling on solar power
As a resident of Oregon, I have seen a number of commercials recently pertaining to the Oregon State Lottery. Since I don’t gamble, I usually tune them out. However, the new ads have actually gotten my attention. Over the past month, I have heard that Lottery funds have helped Oregon become the nation’s leading solar manufacturer!
Well… maybe I’ll buy some lottery tickets! If I’m gambling on solar power, I can’t lose, right?
Hold on just a minute! I am certainly not advocating spending your money on lottery tickets, or gambling in general. Last time I bought a few scratch-its, my son reminded me that you have the same chance of winning as you do getting struck by lightening! Thankfully, I only play games of chance on special events, maybe about 2-3 times a year.
But getting back to the Oregon Lottery, proceeds are going to help fund the construction of solar projects that will provide clean, renewable power for more than 180,000 households. Over the next five years, there will be 2,000 new jobs in Oregon in the solar power industry as a result of lotto proceeds. And just think – this only one sector of a green collar economy!
Though I couldn’t find one of the Oregon Lottery/solar television commercials online, I loved this ad that ran a few years ago:
Mt. Hood, Oregon - Gambling on Keeping it Green
While the rest of us continue to dream big, each time we buy a lottery ticket, we can at least feel a bit better about losing when we consider the fact that “investments” are making a big difference to the environment and the economy. Oregon’s proceeds go in part to help Solar World, which has made Oregon the top solar manufacturing state in the nation. Add this to the fact that Oregon offers a 50% tax credit on all renewable energy projects, since 2007.
Solar panels are something any homeowner should consider. With the lotto proceeds and the 50% tax credit, now is a great time for anyone living in Oregon to take advantage of this positive change in our state.
I am willing to bet that other states soon will follow Oregon’s lead. Gambling on solar power is a safe investment for states to make with lotto proceeds. The odds of a cleaner, greener future have just improved.
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