Improving Access to Clean Renewable Energy in Low-Income Communities

How and where we source our energy has a large impact on our lives. People across the United States are increasingly seeking alternative clean, renewable energy to conventional energy sources. A growing proportion of homeowners are attracted to getting solar panels for their homes to save money and to help the environment. Unfortunately, solar panels are not an option for many people and communities. Initially, participating in the clean energy movement was considered not possible for renters. Now, there is a sustainable solution.

The viable option for low-income communities is Community Solar.

The Empowerment Grant is focused on advancing clean energy options for low-income (and moderate-income) communities. It allows low-income communities to contribute to state and national greenhouse gas reduction goals for climate resiliency.

Our mission is to encourage and support new approaches to bring clean, cost-saving energy to families in need. In addition to creating access to clean and renewable energy, the Empowerment Grant is focused on building pathways for education and training for clean energy jobs and linking energy efficiency to healthy and safe homes.

We seek to improve access to clean and renewable energy for low- and moderate-income Delawareans.

What is Community Solar?

Community Solar is when multiple community members share in the power and/or financial benefits of a solar electric system. It provides the opportunity to join the clean energy movement and contribute to climate resiliency planning. It offers low-income communities the benefits of solar without having to own a home or install solar panels on one’s home. It consists of mid-size solar arrays connected to the distribution grid.

A consumer and other community members voluntarily “subscribe” and receive a portion of the power generated while paying a monthly subscription fee. This model allows no upfront investment costs required from the community members. This makes it easier for low-income communities to participate while enjoying the benefits of the clean, renewable energy movement.

Many low-income communities are comprised of multifamily housing or other residential properties that are not designed to support rooftop solar.

Community Solar is ideal for properties where rooftop solar panel installation is not possible.

Community Solar is ideal for renters, particularly in low-income communities. One-third of all Americans are renters. Historically, renters have been excluded for the benefits of solar energy because owning the property is a pre-requisite for install solar panels on a home. Now, renters can benefit from less expensive and cleaner energy sources also. By saving on energy expenses, energy burdens are reduced.

What are the benefits of Community Solar?

Community Solar projects offer all the same benefits of any renewable energy project. It is good for the environment, offers a clean energy alternative for everyone, especially low-income renters in overburdened and underserved communities,
creates jobs, economically serves participants, and unites communities.

What are main barriers to Community Solar for low-income communities?

Two main barriers that have the potential to limit Community Solar in low-income communities are financial constraints and public misperceptions.

To further reduce the barriers to the affordability of Community Solar, contract flexibility and shorter-term contracts are necessary.

Workforce
Development

Community Solar can bring jobs and economic benefits to low-income communities. To support job creation and growth, local and state governments should include incentives for local hiring when approving projects.

Training and apprenticeship programs should be included as a Community Solar workforce pipeline. All low-income Community Solar sites should be developed for Community Solar utilizing local talent as a certain percent of the workforce.

Local Multi-Sector
Collaboration

The Empowerment Grant Program will organize with mission-driven multi-sector impact leaders, trusted community-leaders, community centers, faith base organizations, civic associations, business leaders and others for a long-term partnership committed to improving low-income communities’ access to renewable energy.

Partners will also include, but not be limited to, education institutions, workforce organizations, sustainability groups, municipal officials, community boards, clean technology professionals, artists, and others.