All I keep hearing in the news is that artificial intelligence is going to be “the next big thing” that drives both the world economy and human advancement. I also hear that it will “require immense computing power from data centers that will consume unprecedented amounts of electricity,” which will surely drive up the demand and cost of this essential utility.
At the same time, I’m also hearing from frantic solar energy reps that the 30% federal tax credit for residential solar power is set to expire at the end of the year, and people need to get their solar orders in “under the wire” to make the transition as affordable as possible.
My question to the Trump administration, which prides itself on governing with “common sense,” is, does it make sense that in the near future we’re going to be facing an unprecedented electric surge while at the same time eliminating a tax incentive designed to reduce demand on the electric grid by homeowners and businesses? Is this actually a good “common sense” policy move?
To better prepare for the inception of AI, wouldn’t it make much better sense if the Trump administration extended the 30% federal tax credit until at least the end of 2026? In fact, perhaps the optimal move — to remove the upfront financial barrier — would be for some kind of executive order/legislation that mandates all future new homes being built to have the option of solar power as an added feature baked into the cost of the mortgage throughout the end of Trump’s term on Jan. 20, 2029.
Getting as many millions of homes and businesses off the grid to prepare for this electric-consuming behemoth — wouldn’t that be the responsible, “common sense” approach to preparing for AI?
— Eugene R. Dunn, Glen Burnie
Add your voice: Respond to this piece or other Sun content by submitting your own letter.
