Legislative advocates for solar power in Arizona are looking to the federal government for funding, in the form of a $500 million solar energy investment bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last year.

At a recent press conference, Arizona state Rep. Daniel Hernandez of Tucson says the U.S. Senate must act quickly, specifically Arizona Sens. Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema.

“In a state that has more sunshine than almost any other state in the country, and almost any other place in the world, it is unconscionable that we are not doing more to invest in ensuring that there is rooftop solar for as many Arizonans as possible,” said Hernandez.

Hernandez says without this funding, a person’s location and income bracket determine their access to clean renewable energy.

"I am a state representative and have been representing one of the poorest communities in Arizona for the past six years, here in southern Arizona. Far too often, your ZIP code determines what options you have for clean air, clean order, and also environmental justice," said Hernandez.

Hernandez says the additional clean energy and jobs the funding would bring would be welcome in his district.