By MJ Shannon
State Rep., D-117
MJ Shannon
One of my favorite parts of serving as your state representative is having the opportunity to support legislation that makes a real difference in people’s everyday lives.
I was proud last month to stand alongside Gov. Ned Lamont and my legislative colleagues as he signed Public Act 26-127 into law, a bill I was proud to support that expands access to affordable solar energy while helping Connecticut build a cleaner and more reliable energy future.
If there is one thing I hear repeatedly from constituents, it is that the cost of living is too high. Rising electricity bills have put a strain on families, seniors and small businesses alike.
While there is no single solution to lowering energy costs, this legislation is an important step in the right direction because it makes it easier for more people to access clean energy while strengthening our electric grid.
To help accomplish that, the new law extends Connecticut’s residential, commercial and community solar programs through 2027, giving homeowners, businesses, municipalities and nonprofit organizations the certainty they need to continue investing in solar energy. It also expands the use of battery storage, which helps improve grid reliability and makes better use of the clean energy we generate.
What I especially appreciate about this legislation is that it opens the door for more people to benefit from solar power. Traditionally, many renters and homeowners without the right type of roof have been left out of the conversation. This legislation authorizes plug-in solar systems, smaller and more affordable panels that can be installed in places like a backyard or on a balcony. It is an innovative approach that gives more Connecticut residents the opportunity to lower their energy costs and participate in our clean energy future.
The bill also encourages responsible solar development by prioritizing projects on rooftops, brownfields, municipal and state buildings, parking lots and other already developed properties. That means we can continue expanding renewable energy while protecting open space and preserving the character of our communities.
Just as importantly, this law cuts unnecessary red tape by streamlining the permitting process for residential solar installations. By making it easier and more cost effective for homeowners to install solar, we can reduce delays, lower costs and help more families choose renewable energy if it makes sense for them.
Protecting our environment and making Connecticut more affordable should go hand in hand. We should be investing in policies that reduce pollution, strengthen our energy infrastructure, create good paying jobs and save people money at the same time. Public Act 26-127 accomplishes all those goals.
I was proud to cast my vote in support of this legislation and honored to attend the bill signing. As your state representative, I will continue working to advance practical, forward-looking solutions that protect our environment, strengthen our economy and help make Connecticut a more affordable place to call home.
As always, I encourage you to reach out if you have questions, concerns or ideas about issues impacting our community. My office is here to help. You can contact me any time by email at mj.shannon@cga.ct.gov or by phone at 860-240-8585.