By Howard ‘Scot’ Arey
TXSES Board Chair
When I first became involved with TXSES nearly a decade ago, the biggest challenge was solar adoption by the mainstream. Today, the debate is on how much solar will be integrated to the Texas / ERCOT grid. We know the right answer – let Texas entrepreneurs and innovators integrate renewables and storage on the grid so that it’s more reliable and less expensive for everyone, allowing for the marketplace to define its natural limit.
This happened because of you.
What started a decade ago as grassroots support morphed into something more powerful: grassroots support paired with industry support! TXSES’ members knew they could lower their electric bills and back up their essential household loads but today, industry leaders know that zero-fuel-cost solar with innovative technologies makes solar essential to the grid.
TXSES is helping to make sure that solar is never held back by its own actions.
Its programs and educational efforts will ensure that when Texas calls for more energy, solar can say, “we have more to provide!” Workforce development must always be a foundational pillar and the work TXSES does with the “From Classroom to Career Building: Building the Pipeline for Texas’ Clean Energy Workforce” program with the State Energy Conservation Office means that high school graduates can have the skills to move into well-paying, rewarding careers. Ensuring every member of society, no matter their income level, has the opportunity to invest in low-cost energy for their homes is another positive outcome we anticipate from our new collaboration with the Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute. Everyone should have the financial tools to protect themselves from rising energy costs, so financial model innovations are as important as technical innovations.
Making this all come together takes financial resources. We’re proud to have brought on a new Director of Development to help identify, compete for, and win the grants so solar can expand its footprint across Texas. Competition for grants is tough but when foundation leaders hear what we’re doing in Texas, they step up. We’re thankful for all the support we receive. Whether from charitable foundations, or our business members who have invested in TXSES, or individual members who are the original solar advocates in Texas – we thank you for your generous and frequent support.
As I conclude my second term as the TXSES board chair, let me say a few thank you’s.
All things start and end with the Executive Director, Patrice ‘Pete’ Parsons, who does so much for the organization. Me and my fellow board members remain inspired with what she accomplishes. Pete is the exemplar of passion and energy. Thanks to every board member who volunteered to serve. Each of you, past and present, has brought unique skills, viewpoints, and relationships that help TXSES “punch above its weight.” Keep casting the net wide and far for those who are enthusiastic about our important mission.
The final thanks are to you, our TXSES members and #1 advocate for what we do. At TXSES, we don’t lobby. We don’t write legislation. But as we’ve done for more than four decades, we support people and programs that educate all Texans about the benefits of solar for all Texans.
Lastly, the Texas Legislature convenes in January for its biannual session. We’ll continue to be on point identifying critical issues and providing independent insight. Make sure you tell your Representative and Senator that solar is important to you and important for Texas.
Solar has enjoyed great success across Texas these past years. Even more opportunities lie ahead. It’s been my great privilege to be around the very best solar advocates to contribute to the TXSES mission. Thank you for letting me be part of this important group.