With strong bipartisan support, AB458 Solar-Powered Affordable Housing advances out of the Nevada Assembly.
CARSON CITY — On Tuesday, the Assembly voted 36-6 with strong bipartisan support to advance Solar-Powered Affordable Housing (AB458), a Nevada Conservation League (NCL) policy priority sponsored by Assemblymember Howard Watts.
The bill removes outdated red tape that has blocked rooftop solar installations on affordable housing complexes. By eliminating barriers and allowing shared solar benefits for tenants, the bill ensures that low-income families can access the cost savings and energy security that solar power provides.
“The overwhelming support for AB458 makes it clear that this is a long-overdue solution for Nevada families,” Assemblymember Howard Watts said. “I’m grateful to my colleagues for recognizing the need to break down barriers and help more Nevadans access the savings and security that solar energy can provide.”
“Nevadans are experiencing some of the highest energy bills in the nation despite our abundant natural resource — sunshine,” Christi Cabrera-Georgeson, Deputy Director for Nevada Conservation League, said. “AB458 is a win-win, tapping into that solar potential and helping renters save money while expanding rooftop solar in our communities. We’re grateful to Assemblymember Howard Watts for his leadership in bringing forward a strong, thoughtful bill that earned broad support.”
“Families across Nevada are stretched to the breaking point — forced to make heartbreaking decisions between paying for electricity, buying groceries, or filling a prescription,” Mary Wagner, Nevada Field Organizer for Moms Clean Air Force and EcoMadres, said. “High energy bills are a financial and health burden, especially for our children. This policy will give families real relief, so more families can breathe easier and save on their bills.”
“Every Nevadan should have the right to benefit from solar energy, regardless of whether they rent or own their home,” Julia Hubbard, Nevada Program Director for Solar United Neighbors, said. “This policy removes outdated regulations and ensures that renters in affordable housing can access the cost-saving benefits and energy freedom of rooftop solar.”
“Nevada has an affordability problem, and too many families are falling through the cracks,” Dr. Mary House, CEO for CHR, Inc., said. “This bill helps by giving more families and seniors access to rooftop solar and the savings and stability that come with it. It’s a practical solution that puts the needs of our communities first.”
This follows a unanimous Assembly Growth and Infrastructure vote in favor of AB458 on April 10. A recording of the bill hearing, during which it received overwhelming public support, is available here.
To follow this bill, please sign up for the Nevada Conservation League’s 83rd Session’s Action Alerts. To support this bill, please sign the Nevada Conservation League’s petition.
Press interested in one-on-one interviews should contact Camalot Todd, communications director at NCL, at Camalot@nevadaconservationleague.org or 702-576-7247.
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The Nevada Conservation League is the independent voice of Nevada’s conservation community. NCL works to maintain and enhance the natural character of Nevada and the quality of life for Nevadans through effective advocacy, the election of pro-conservation candidates, and building collaboration.