That's a wrap!

As 2018 draws to a close, ASES can reflect on another year of bringing together the solar community though our events and resources. From our new jobs board to Tiny Watts, SOLAR 2018 to the National Solar Tour, our accomplishments are a reflection of the enormous support that we feel from supporters like you. So please accept our sincere gratitude in 2018 as we prepare for even more important work in the weeks and months ahead. We are looking forward to engaging more volunteers to join our community, and an overwhelming increase in solar adoption in 2019.

Earlier this month at COP24 in Katowice, Poland, the United Nations agreed on a common set of rules to put the Paris Agreement into practice. A landmark IPCC report showed we have less than a decade to address global climate change or face catastrophic consequences. It painted a more dire picture of the consequences of climate change than previous research, and this heightens the need for a rapid transformation of the energy economy. The vast majority of the U.N. formally supported the IPCC 1.5˚C report, however the United States only "noted" the report, indicating that it does not endorse its findings.

Though the U.N. science panel chief called for more action to curb climate change (Good COP!), the COP24 outcomes were simply not enough and did not bolster the sense of urgency demanded by the findings. Island countries most vulnerable to climate change, such as Fiji, the Maldives and Vanatu, are expressing deep concern at potential negative outcomes from the negotiations in Poland. At ASES we are bridging solutions and creating the power of community. Please submit a proposal to present at SOLAR 2019, and join us there August 5-9th, in Minneapolis, MN, a city with a commitment to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030. Please see our call to for participation below to present your solutions. And please join us and give your support today, with a tax deductible donation to ASES.

From the islands to the poles, we are in severe climate danger. Also this month, NOAA published its annual report card on the changing Arctic, describing the north and south poles as increasingly melting as they warm at twice the rate of the global average. With the last five years being the hottest on record, we are "pushing the Arctic into uncharted territory."

It's not too late, and we do have cause to celebrate. Employing more than 250,000 Americans, the U.S. solar energy industry is making our economy stronger and our air cleaner every day. What’s good for the planet is also good for our wallets. 2018 boasted over 18% of net domestic electrical generation from renewable energy sources. More and more individuals, businesses, cities, states, and countries are taking the pledge for 100% renewable energy. Welcome 2019. The future is here. Let’s work together for a clean and clear vision towards 2020.

Wishing you peace and love in your heart and many blessings for a prosperous New Year!
Carly Rixham
Executive Director
American Solar Energy Society