Streamlining Home Installation of New Energies Act of 2026; SHINE Act of 2026
Summary
The Streamlining Home Installation of New Energies Act of 2026 (SHINE Act) aims to facilitate the adoption of distributed energy systems by establishing a voluntary streamlined permitting and inspection process. The Act directs the Secretary of Energy to develop and support this process for authorities having jurisdiction over permitting. It focuses on systems like solar, wind, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging.
Expected Effects
The SHINE Act is likely to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles associated with installing distributed energy systems. This could lead to increased adoption of renewable energy technologies at the residential level. The Act also allocates funding for technical and financial assistance to local and tribal governments.
Potential Benefits
Here are some potential benefits of the SHINE Act:
* Increased adoption of renewable energy: Streamlined permitting can make it easier and cheaper for homeowners to install renewable energy systems.
* Job creation: The expansion of the distributed energy sector could lead to new jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
* Reduced energy costs: Homeowners with distributed energy systems may see lower energy bills.
* Grid resilience: Distributed energy systems can enhance the resilience of the electricity grid by providing backup power and reducing strain on centralized power plants.
* Environmental benefits: Increased use of renewable energy sources can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.
Potential Disadvantages
Here are some potential disadvantages of the SHINE Act:
* Cost to taxpayers: The Act authorizes $20 million per year for fiscal years 2027-2030, which could be a burden on taxpayers.
* Voluntary adoption: The streamlined permitting process is voluntary, so its effectiveness will depend on how many jurisdictions choose to participate.
* Potential for inconsistent standards: A voluntary system could lead to inconsistencies in permitting and inspection standards across different jurisdictions.
* Cybersecurity risks: Increased reliance on interconnected distributed energy systems could create new cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
* Impact on existing utilities: Increased distributed generation could disrupt the business models of traditional utility companies.
Constitutional Alignment
The SHINE Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it seeks to promote energy security and environmental protection. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The Act's focus on interstate commerce through energy systems could also be seen as aligning with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).