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GreenSpark Solar CEO, Kevin Schulte, Shares Insights on Conflicting Clean Energy Headlines
GreenSpark CEO Kevin Schulte recently joined Evan Dawson on WXXI’s Connections to unpack what shifting federal policy under the Trump administration means for the clean energy industry, GreenSpark’s workforce, and communities here in New York and across the country.
Conflicting headlines — from ending tax credits and solar projects stalling to record-breaking renewable growth — have left many wondering what’s really happening. Kevin explained why the clean energy momentum hasn’t yet slowed down: solar and battery storage remain the cheapest, fastest forms of energy to deploy at a time when our grid is increasingly strained and utility rates are rising.
Still, the stakes are high for homeowners, businesses, and developers making investment decisions now, and for businesses in the renewable energy industry.
Key Takeaways from the Conversation
- Delayed Impact of HR1: Most of the HR1 bill’s impacts won’t hit until after the 2026 midterm elections, a politically strategic choice. But consumer tax credits for solar, EVs, and heat pumps end much sooner — by the end of 2025 (and EV credits even earlier).
- Hidden Taxpayer Costs: While clean energy credits are being cut, fossil fuel subsidies persist. Globally, they totaled $7 trillion in 2023 (7% of GDP). Locally, taxpayers are still funding the cleanup of old fossil fuel sites, like the $25M remediation at Rochester’s High Falls.
- Solar as Stability: Rising electricity rates and grid volatility make rooftop, community, and solar-plus-storage projects a hedge against future uncertainty. Kevin called rooftops and repurposed parking lots the most significant untapped opportunity.
- Policy Whiplash: The U.S. risks falling behind countries like China, which are racing ahead with clean energy to power industries like AI data centers. Kevin emphasized the need for a consistent policy, at a minimum, so investors and communities can confidently plan.
- Opportunities in New York: Despite national uncertainty, state programs like Solar for All, a program many of GreenSpark’s community solar projects support, will deliver 15% savings to low-income households. Local demand from homeowners and businesses also remains strong, despite tax credits disappearing.
Listen to the Full Interview
You can hear the full conversation with Kevin Schulte on WXXI’s Conexiones con Evan Dawson aquí.
At GreenSpark, we’re proud to bring a clear, grounded perspective to the national energy conversation while continuing to deliver practical, high-impact solar and storage solutions across New York and beyond. Learn more about our work as the #1 Community Solar EPC in the U.S.
