Local Action Is the Path Forward When Feds Deny Climate Change and Attack Clean Energy

Jeanine Cotter

Bio: Over twenty years ago, Jeanine co-founded Luminalt to build clean, reliable, locally generated electricity systems in the San Francisco Bay Area and create quality jobs for residents. One of few women running a solar installation company, and one of fewer still who is the qualifier for the company’s contractors license, she is widely considered an industry expert. She is Chair of the Workforce Investment Board of San Francisco and has been re-elected by membership since 2013 to the Board of Directors of the California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA), California’s local solar industry trade organization. Jeanine has worked on national and local committees to establish solar industry standards, protect consumers, advocate for clean energy, drive local economic and workforce development, develop safety and professional trainings, support small business and sustainable business practices. Her work has earned her recognition from the CA Legislative Assembly, including the 2015 Woman of the Year award for District 19, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and nonprofits. Jeanine holds a California Contractor State License Board C46 solar specialty license, a C10 electrical specialty license and a general B license. She is a National Fire Protection Association Certified Electrical Safety Technician and a licensed California attorney. She is a mother and grandmother and believes passionately in creating opportunities for her and others' children and grandchildren to thrive.

Jeanine will present a talk on climate change causing stronger and more erratic weather. We're seeing more wildfires, droughts, floods and heatwaves. The number one cause of climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. The number one way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels is to generate clean energy. In 2025, the Federal Government eliminated the 30% income tax credit for the installation of residential solar and batteries. As the Federal government adds barriers, state and local governments can become effective catalysts to accelerate clean energy. We'll talk about the Federal Government's retreat, and explore actions we can take to keep clean energy moving forward.