Despite Federal Challenges, Two Leading Solar Advocates Are Continuing Their Forward Push

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 1:00 pm

Solar Advocates Weather the Storm: Despite Federal Headwinds, Clean Energy Momentum Persists

The solar energy sector is facing a challenging environment, but two leading grassroots organizations are pushing forward despite federal obstacles. This week, *Inside Clean Energy* spoke with Anya Schoolman, founder of Solar United Neighbors, and Sachu Constantine, executive director of Vote Solar, about navigating the current political climate.

Both organizations, focused on expanding solar access through local and state-level initiatives, are feeling the impact of the Trump administration's policies. Solar United Neighbors, which organizes solar buying groups and advocates in 12 states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, is dealing with funding cuts and program cancellations. Vote Solar faces similar hurdles, but both leaders remain optimistic.

Schoolman emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the work, highlighting the bipartisan support solar projects often receive at the local level. Constantine echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the ongoing opportunity to make a difference.

The article also highlights other developments in the energy transition. The Trump administration is planning to end the Energy Star home appliance program, and 17 states are suing to stop the administration's freeze on wind energy approvals. Furthermore, the administration's budget request includes significant cuts to renewable energy research, EV charging, and environmental justice programs. However, amidst these challenges, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, the largest in the country, continues to make progress.

BNN's Perspective: While the current administration's stance on renewable energy presents significant hurdles, the resilience and continued efforts of organizations like Solar United Neighbors and Vote Solar are encouraging. The bipartisan support solar projects often garner at the local level suggests a growing recognition of the benefits of clean energy, even in politically diverse communities. The long-term trend towards cleaner energy sources seems undeniable, and these organizations are playing a crucial role in driving that transition forward.

Keywords: Solar energy, Solar United Neighbors, Vote Solar, Anya Schoolman, Sachu Constantine, Trump administration, renewable energy, clean energy, Energy Star, wind energy, offshore wind, Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, energy transition, federal policies, state legislatures, regulatory commissions, bipartisan support, environmental justice, EV charging, budget cuts

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