Katie Howell, E&E reporter

The renewable energy industry and environmental groups have pledged strong support for legislation introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) that would encourage installation of 10 million solar energy systems on residential and commercial rooftops during the next decade.

The bill (S. 2993), introduced last month, would create a rebate program modeled on successful state programs in California and New Jersey. Home and business owners that install photovoltaic and solar hot water heating systems would be eligible for the rebates designed to offset initial installation costs.

The rebates authorized by the legislation could cover up to half the cost of installation of the solar power and water heating systems.

"We're extremely excited about Senator Sanders' bill," said Sean Garren, clean energy advocate at Environment America. The organization today will release a report detailing its vision for solar power in the United States, including the policies, like Sanders' legislation, needed to arrive at that vision.

The solar industry has voiced its support for the legislation as well.

"Passing this bill would create the world's largest market for solar energy here in the U.S. and bring with it tens of thousands of manufacturing and installation jobs in all 50 states," said Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, in a statement.

Jeff Wolfe, co-founder and CEO of Vermont-based solar company groSolar and chairman of SEIA's Photovoltaic Division echoed Resch's support, saying, "This bill will help make America energy independent while creating many thousands of good paying jobs in the U.S. It will also help bring long-term relief to American homeowners, who otherwise face mounting energy bills.

"This bill represents a rare legislative opportunity for a win-win-win," Wolfe added.

Sanders is joined by 10 Democratic co-sponsors on the legislation. Companion legislation in the House (H.R. 4597), introduced by Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), is also supported by Democrats from New Jersey and California, among other states.