WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswomen Nikema Williams (GA-05) and Katie Porter (CA-47) introduced the Solar Use Network (SUN) Act to spur development of renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicle charging stations along interstate highways. Their proposal would convert unused rights-of-way, like interstate medians, into valued community assets that can be used for renewable energy projects. Reps. Jared Huffman (CA-02), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-Del) are cosponsoring introduction of the SUN Act. 

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: 

“Building more green infrastructure is essential to improving the health of our communities. The SUN Act rises to meet this need by transforming under-utilized space on highways into environmentally-friendly power sources. This is especially critical for marginalized communities that were intentionally divided by interstate highways, and the SUN Act is yet another way to bring long overdue repair. I will continue leading the effort to ensure interstates benefit our communities and bring us closer to having infrastructure that works for everyone–no matter your ZIP Code, no matter your bank account.”

Congresswoman Katie Porter (CA-47) said: 

“Californians know that our clean energy transition cannot wait. To limit the damage of climate change in our communities, we need to think creatively about how Congress can spur the development of clean energy infrastructure. My SUN Act would make it easier for utilities to build charging stations and generate renewable energy along otherwise unused land, helping power our future one mile at a time.”

The SUN Act is endorsed by CA EnviroVoters, Environment America, Environment California, Environment Georgia, Environmental Defense Fund, Evergreen Action, League of Conservation Voters, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Rewiring America. 

Lisa Frank, executive director of Environment America’s Washington Legislative Office said:

“Every year, enough sun shines down on us to power America many times over, but we’re still barely scratching the surface of solar potential. Installing solar panels along our highways is a great way to get more clean power without disrupting the natural environment. In just three southern California counties, we found installing solar along highways could power 270,000 homes. Imagine what we could do if we put solar along highways nationwide. That’s why Environment America is excited to support the SUN Act.” 

Click here for the text of the SUN Act. 

CONTACT: PressGA05@mail.house.gov 

Congresswoman Nikema Williams proudly serves Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District on the exclusive Financial Services Committee. She is a champion of voting rights and builds on the Fifth District’s legacy as the cradle of the civil rights movement as co-chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus. Congresswoman Williams is committed to closing the racial wealth gap and ensuring the promise of America for all–regardless of your ZIP code or bank account.

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