Editorial: Ripple effect for solar

Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007 | 7:18 a.m.

Rep. Jim Oberstar, D-Minn., was ahead of his time 30 years ago. He had authored legislation to install solar panels on federal buildings. When his bill was shot down, he didn't get mad - he waited.

He was in his second term back then. Now he's in his 16th. Such seniority earns clout in the House, and the fact that he is chairman of the Transportation Committee doesn't hurt. This week the House passed Oberstar's bill to install a $30 million solar system at the Energy Department building.

"For 30 years I've been trying to get this thing done," Oberstar told the Associated Press. "I know it is the right thing to do."

The House not only passed Oberstar's bill, but touted it as a model for all federal buildings. That is precisely the bill's real value.

"What better symbol than the Energy Department itself to operate on renewable energy?" Oberstar said. He's right, and we hope that eventually solar units will be installed at all federal buildings.

In his remarks after his bill was passed, Oberstar said the federal government has a responsibility to take the lead in fighting for energy independence and against global warming.

We agree, with one addendum: Responsibility also lies with state and local governments. Solar panels should be visible on state, county and city buildings all over the country.

Once solar energy became a common sight, the rooftops of homeowners would increasingly be displaying this technology. As more solar units were sold, their prices would drop, stimulating more sales. This kind of leadership is no longer ahead of its time.