Solar bill gains unanimous backing from House committee

Legislation aimed at making it easier and more affordable for Georgia homeowners and small businesses to put solar panels on their rooftops passed a key House panel on a unanimous vote Wednesday.

Sponsored by Republican Rep. Mike Dudgeon of Johns Creek, House Bill 57 clarifies how homeowners can get outside financing of small solar installations. The measure quickly cleared the House Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications Committee and is now headed to the Rules Committee.

The bill has been in the works for months. More than 90 parties were involved with it, including utilities and solar companies, Dudgeon said. Officials with Georgia Power and trade associations that represent electric cooperatives and the solar power industry spoke in favor of the bill at Wednesday’s hearing.