Ecobreves – MEXICO: Business Sector Rejects New Solar Law

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MEXICO CITY, May 20 2006 (IPS) - Opposition has emerged amongst entrepreneurs in the Mexican capital against a law that would require the use of solar energy by any new business that has more than 51 employees and uses hot water. Their argument is that it is an expensive source of energy and adequate technology is not available. “The opposition is understandable, because the city authorities have not explained its scope or its benefits,” Odón de Buen, secretary of the non-governmental National Solar Energy Association, told Tierramérica.

“I think there is natural resistance against the measure, but in the end we maintain that it is appropriate and will succeed if the city government approaches those who are upset and clarify any doubts and support compliance,” he said.

The Mexico City government implemented the new law on Apr. 8, stating that any commercial establishment that begins operations since that date and requires hot water has to use solar energy.