In an effort to increase energy independence, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders proposed legislation to install 10 million rooftop solar power and 200,000 water heating systems during the next decade.

The "10 Million Solar Roofs and 10 Million Gallons of Solar Water Heating Act of 2010" would authorize rebates and incentives to help homeowners, businesses, non-profits and state and local governments purchase and install solar power and water heating systems.

"A dramatic expansion of solar power is a clean and economical way to help break our dependence on foreign oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, improve our geopolitical position, and create good-paying green jobs," Sanders said.

This investment would create hundreds of clean energy jobs in the United States and allow solar photovoltaic technology to be distributed at prices competitive with those of fossil fuels, according to the proposal.

The Vermont senator sited successful solar rebate programs in states like California, which leads the country in photovoltaic systems. Hawaii has the highest number of solar water heating systems installed, according to the proposal, and is projected to reduce its oil consumption by 30,000 barrels in 2010.