Clean energy legislation to be discussed in next session

Several bills relating to clean energy will be discussed in the upcoming Nevada legislative session. Those topics were discussed at an energy policy forum at the InNEVation Center in downtown Reno Friday.

"Energy has never really gotten its day in the legislature and I think this session, because of the nexus between the economy and energy police, I think we're going to see a lot of work on energy this session," said Jennifer Taylor, Executive Director of the Clean Energy Project. "There will be a bill on the renewable portfolio standard, bills related to electric vehicles, community solar and other solar issues. I'm sure after the vote on question 3 there will be a bill relating to the structure of our energy market."

The forum was a way to educate residents on upcoming legislation and show them how to get involved in the legislative process.

"I've been doing it for the last year and a half," said Kevin McGehee, a small business owner. "Testifying at the Public Utilities Commission, going to the legislature, and gathering as much information as I can about what's happening. That's what everyone else can do too."

More of these meetings are planned in the coming weeks.

"People are interested and informed on these issues and there's been some local economic development that's highlighted the potential of some of these things," said Tom Polikalas of the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project. "We have Tesla, batteries are now a key multibillion dollar sector of the world economy. Nevada is already a key player in that industry. Electric vehicles are a key part of the new energy economy and Nevada has the opportunity again to be a leader in that technology."

The 79th session of the Nevada Legislature will begin Monday, February 6.

"We're here to help educate citizens and our legislators, to be a resource to them to make sure they understand why this is such a key facet in the governor's new economy vision and in his new Nevada vision."