Solar Energy International saddened by news of solar advocate Rep. Gabrielle Giffords

By Johnny Weiss
Solar Energy International Executive Director

The Solar Energy International staff is saddened by the news of Jan. 8's horrific tragedy in Tucson, Ariz. The mass shooting killed six, including Arizona chief federal judge John Roll, and injured 14, including U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, a spirited solar advocate and friend of Solar Energy International.

As part of Rep. Giffords' solar outreach, her office has organized free two-hour Solar Power 101s for the public about once a month since 2007. They are basic-level, two-hour sessions at public libraries around the 8th district, which she represents. I am proud to say that Solar Energy International actively participated in the Solar 101s 31st session in February of 2010, leading a discussion on the solar industry and solar training.

Rep. Giffords is well known in the solar industry, and our wishes go out to her as she faces recovery from her injuries. She should be heralded for her successful solar efforts, for example, sponsoring the Solar Technology Roadmap Act, introducing the Solar Schools Act, and helping to secure funding for the construction of Arizona's largest solar plant, along with involving SEI in her community education series on solar energy. 

We at SEI truly appreciate the vaulable work Gabrielle Giffords has provided to the solar industry. Our thoughts are also extended to all the victims and their families, friends, and colleagues, as well as the Tucson community, in this time of national grief.

Editor's note: As of Jan. 10, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords remained in critical condition in a Tucson hospital, but was stabilizing.