The Community Solar Lifeline Continues To Live On

The article discusses the ongoing growth and resilience of the community solar movement in the United States despite recent setbacks in federal energy policy. Community solar allows ratepayers—especially those who cannot install rooftop solar panels due to ownership, space, or financial constraints—to subscribe to locally sited solar arrays and save money on electricity bills. Since Colorado’s pioneering legislation in 2010, 43 states and the District of Columbia have authorized community solar projects, totaling 11 gigawatts (AC) as of 2024. The cost of solar panels and installation has significantly decreased, making community solar financially beneficial for subscribers, with some states adopting opt-out subscription models to increase participation. The article highlights a new development supporting low- and moderate-income (LMI) households through the U.S. Department of Energy’s “Energy Connector” community solar hub. The DOE recently contracted InClime, a veteran-owned small business experienced in renewable energy programs, to manage the hub in partnership with the Clean Energy States Alliance.