[The Vector] Solar: Make Your Case!

James Carville and Mary Matalin gave the closing keynote speech at the largest U.S. solar show, Solar Power International, held in Los Angeles October 12-14th. Matalin is a celebrated conservative and Republican insider, while Carville is a well‐known liberal voice and political consultant.

While the political couple are married but famously on opposite political sides, they said solar is something they — and both political parties — should join forces on. “As politically charged as it is, our energy future is a bipartisan issue.”

Many key races on November 3^rd will be important to the U.S. solar industry. Matalin said we have to work to make solar “palatable” to Republicans: “Don’t say recovery, don’t say stimulus, don’t say earmarks – say job creating.” Focusing on the dire needs of jobs can get the message through to that party more effectively, she said.

Also at stake in the upcoming election are Renewable Energy Standards (RES) in place in 35 of 50 U.S. states. In Maryland, Ohio and Illinois, the conservative gubenatorial candidates do not support RES policies, and in Kansas, Minnesota and Oklahoma, the candidates are skeptical about global warming and need for a lower carbon future.

Carville urged that policies we set now are an investment in the future. He said “Make your case!” to your representatives and elected officials. Our future is going to be determined by politicians, and there is a good case to make on solar – make it!