Students from Glenville High School, Laurel High School, Solon High School, and Cleveland School of the Arts will travel to Columbus on December 6 to support legislation promoting community solar. 

State legislators are currently considering a bill that could bring the benefits of solar energy to those who can’t, or prefer not to, install panels on their own home. If passed, House Bill 197, sponsored by Rep. James Hoops (R-Napolean) and Rep. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) will create Ohio’s first Community Solar Pilot Program. For the first time, solar power would be available for renters, condos, townhomes, and most small- to medium-sized businesses who cannot install rooftop solar. This comes at a time when the nationwide Solar for All program is poised to help low-income Americans gain access to solar energy at an unprecedented scale. 

These students, particularly those from Glenville High School, represent a low-income community that could see major positive impacts from Solar for All, as well as from HB 197. They also represent a generation of young Americans who are civically engaged and active in their advocacy for local solar opportunities and affordable electric bills. 

During the day, students will meet with legislators to talk about the community solar bill. Press are invited to speak with the students and join the meetings with their legislators. Students will be available to speak to the press about the HB 197, their connections with community solar, and their experience during the Lobby Day event. 

What: Lobby Day event in support of the Ohio community solar bill, HB 197

Who: Students from Glenville High School, Laurel School, Solon High School, and Cleveland School of the Arts; Action for the Climate Emergency; Solar United Neighbors, Black Environmental Leaders (BEL)

When: Wednesday, December 6, 11:15am - 3:00pm (schedule below). Media are invited to join the initial gathering for a photo op and any of the meetings with the legislators. 

Where:

• 11:15am: Students will gather, eat lunch, and have a briefing with Rep. Terrence Upchurch (D-20) am at the 12th floor of the Riffe Center (77 S. High Street)
• Beginning at 11:30am onwards, students will meet with their legislators
  • 11:30am: Meeting with Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-16) - 10th floor of the Riffe Center (77 S. High Street)
  • 11:45am: Meeting with Sen. Nickie J. Antonio (D-23) - 10th floor of the Riffe Center (77 S. High Street)
  • 12:00pm: Meeting with Sen. Kent Smith (D-21) - inside Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215
  • 12:15pm: Meeting with Rep. Michael J. Skindell (D-13) - inside Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215

About Solar United Neighbors

Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization that works in Ohio and nationwide to represent the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Solar co-ops are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies.