Oregon SolarPAC

OSSIA has started a political action committee to increase our voice and influence with our decision makers in Salem. Your donation to the Oregon SolarPAC helps expand OSSIA’s capacity to develop a marketplace for the widespread adoption of solar energy in Oregon.

Creating a stable industry and safe marketplace takes a lot of hard work. This is where the Oregon SolarPAC comes in.

The Oregon SolarPAC works with political candidates and elected officials to make sure that solar energy is a priority issue. We are not buying votes; by giving financial contributions it encourages candidates and elected officials to engage with us. This allows us to educate them about the importance of solar energy and makes it easier to craft beneficial solutions for our energy future.

Let's face it, we all want a cleaner tomorrow, but we want it today!!!
 

"I have come to realize how important our tax credits and incentives are to my business and the Oregon solar industry.  So along with my membership in OSSIA, I have decided to put my money where my future lies and support the Oregon SolarPAC with a monthly contribution.  Just like I support Mercy Corps, OPB and lots of other organizations I wish to see continued growth, I am investing in stronger solar legislation and supporting those who are good at talking to lawmakers about my issues.” - James Reismiller from My Solar Story July 2016

Frequently Asked Questions:

What will the Oregon SolarPAC do?
The solar industry is growing and has seen political victories in the past but until recently, not with organized direction to support long-term growth goals. The SolarPAC will support candidates and elected officials in order to further pro-solar policies in Oregon.

Why is OSSIA starting a political action committee?
By creating a SolarPAC, the industry can have conversations with candidates for public office while they are running rather than waiting for the hectic pace of a legislative session. OSSIA represents the Oregon solar industry so we can have these conversations on the industry’s behalf and make campaign contributions to support candidates for office, especially if we believe they are going to be strong supporters of good solar policy.
 

Are we buying votes in the legislature?
No. We will still need to build a strong business and policy case and make solid arguments for the legislative proposals we push. But rather than waiting to start making those arguments at the start of a legislative session, we can start during the campaign season.
 

So where does the money come from to fund the PAC and make campaign contributions?
To be direct, from you. We will be looking for hundreds of solar professionals and supporters to make small contributions from all over the state to strengthen solar’s voice in Oregon politics. This is a grassroots SolarPAC supported by the diversity of the solar industry.

How do I claim the $50 tax credit?

Your contribution may qualify for Oregon’s Political Contribution Tax Credit of up to $100 per couple filing jointly or $50 per individual. Claiming the credit is as simple as filling out the appropriate line on your Oregon Income Tax Return. see the Oregon Department of Revenue for 2016 details. Note that for federal tax purposes, contributions to Oregon SolarPAC are not tax-deductible.