LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Oct. 2, 2026 – This week's announcement from Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mike Lee (R-UT) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) regarding a deal to move the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 bill out of committee and to the Senate floor is welcome news to the renewable industry and to all energy producers frustrated by the slow pace of approvals needed to proceed with constructing our nation's energy infrastructure.

Southern Renewable Energy Association Executive Director Simon Mahan issued the following statement regarding the agreement announced by the energy committee leaders:

"The Southern Renewable Energy Association is grateful for the continuing efforts of Senate Environment and Public Works Chairwoman Shelley Moore Capito and Ranking Member Sheldon Whitehouse to expedite permitting reviews for new energy infrastructure projects. By reaching a bipartisan agreement also supported by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Mike Lee and Ranking Member Martin Heinrich, we are perhaps closer than ever to a more efficient permitting process for projects of all types, including solar and wind. Our nation's energy demand is growing daily, and it is vital for the Senate and House to move quickly to send a bill to the President for his signature
following the midterm elections."

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For more than a decade, the Southern Renewable Energy Association (SREA) has been committed to promoting the responsible use and development of wind energy, solar energy, and transmission solutions across seven Southeastern states. Our mission is centered on fostering sustainable practices and driving innovative advancements in renewable energy. As an industry-driven initiative, SREA serves Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Discover more at southernrenewable.org.