Louisiana House Bill HB187

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/17
• Refer: 3/29/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/1/17
• Engrossed: 5/11/17
• Refer: 5/15/17
• Report Pass: 6/1/17
• Enrolled: 6/8/17
• Chaptered: 6/26/17
• Passed: 6/26/17

Caption

Terminates the solar energy systems tax credit and provides relative to the payment of claims for the tax credit for purchased systems (EN -$15,000,000 GF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 187 would significantly alter the landscape of solar energy investment in Louisiana, removing previously established financial incentives. This could potentially discourage homeowners and businesses from investing in solar energy systems, impeding the growth of renewable energy within the state. The bill could also have fiscal implications, as it proposes modifications to how tax credit claims are processed and paid out, thereby affecting future budgets and financial planning related to renewable energy incentives.

Summary

House Bill 187 aims to terminate the existing solar energy systems tax credit in Louisiana. The bill outlines provisions for the payment of claims for purchased solar systems while amending current tax credit statutes. Under the provisions of this bill, tax credits for solar energy systems installed after a specified date would no longer be available, effectively phasing out incentives that encouraged residents to invest in solar energy technologies. The bill's proponents argue that the termination of these tax credits is necessary due to budgetary constraints and a reassessment of the effectiveness of existing incentives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 187 appears to be mixed. While supporters emphasize the need for fiscal responsibility and focus on the growing concerns about the long-term sustainability of tax credits, opponents criticize the move as a step backward for renewable energy efforts in Louisiana. Detractors believe that the reduction in support for solar energy systems could undermine the state's goals for energy independence and sustainability, highlighting a contentious debate between economic priorities and environmental considerations.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 187 is the potential impact on job creation within the renewable energy sector. Critics argue that terminating the solar tax credit may lead to job losses and reduced economic opportunities in green technology and solar installation industries. Additionally, there are concerns that this shift may disproportionately affect lower-income residents who may rely on tax credits to make solar installations feasible, raising questions about equity in energy access and affordability.