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 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.