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US Senator for Vermont Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation aimed at supporting the installation of over 10 million rooftop solar systems over the next decade.

The bill would establish rebates and other incentives for homeowners and businesses to cover up to half the cost of 10 million rooftop solar power systems and 200,000 solar water heaters. Non-profit groups and local authorities would also be eligible.

“A dramatic expansion of solar power is a clean and economical way to help break our dependence on foreign oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, improve our geopolitical position, and create good-paying green jobs,” says Senator Sanders.

The legislation is being backed by other members of the Environment and Public Works Committee including Barbara Boxer. A similar bill is being introduced in the House of Representatives by Steve Cohen of Tennessee.

Meanwhile, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom has introduced legislation to support energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation and other environmental improvements to the city’s residential and commercial buildings.

The ‘green financing’ initiative will provide upfront financing for improvements that will repaid through the property tax bill over the lifetime of the installed measures.

Around 45% of San Francisco’s greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings and drought conditions are threatening water supplies.

“This new green financing program will drastically curb San Francisco’s carbon footprint and reduce the strain on our regional water supply,” says the city’s Supervisor Eric Mar.

For further information:
http://sanders.senate.gov/files/END10088.pdf
www.sfmayor.org/

Related stories:
US invests in community renewable schemes and solar research (20-Jul 2009)
US cities give support to microgeneration (30-Jun 2008)
US scheme converts unused roofs into solar generator (20-Apr 2008)