California legislation would benefit renewable energy projects

Assemblyman Ben Hueso, D-79th District-Calif., has introduced a bill that would allow property-tax revenue to be used to promote renewable energy projects.

The legislation, A.B.2551, would authorize a legislative body to establish an infrastructure financing district in a renewable energy zone area, as defined, for the purpose of promoting renewable energy projects. The bill would exempt the creation of the district from the voter-approval requirement.

California could be set for an alternative energy Gold Rush with new bill

California legislators are considering a new bill that could mean a major financial boost in alternative energy throughout the state. The bill would allow cities to create “Renewable Energy Zones,” which would not be subject to voter approval. In these zones, alternative energy projects would be funded by property tax revenue. City officials would determine how much of this property tax goes toward alternative energy projects and how much would be used for its original purpose.

Canada: Improving property tax system for green energy

McGuinty Government's Changes Encourage Renewable Energy Installations

Ontario is supporting property owners who install renewable energy technologies by improving property tax assessment policies for them.

The changes will provide greater clarity by creating additional categories for property tax assessment based on the size and location of energy generation. The move will encourage property owners to continue to install and use renewable energy technologies.