What are some ways to make solar panel installation more accessible to low-income communities?

1 Community solar projects

One way to overcome the high upfront costs and technical challenges of installing solar panels is to participate in a community solar project. This is a model where multiple customers share the benefits of a large-scale solar system that is owned and operated by a third party, such as a utility, a nonprofit, or a cooperative. By subscribing to a portion of the solar output, you can receive credits on your electricity bill without having to install or maintain any equipment on your property. Community solar projects can also create local jobs, support environmental justice, and increase energy resilience.

2 Solar leasing and power purchase agreements

Another way to access solar power without paying upfront is to sign a solar leasing or power purchase agreement (PPA) with a solar company. In a solar leasing, you rent the solar panels from the company and pay a fixed monthly fee for using the electricity they generate. In a PPA, you agree to buy the electricity from the company at a predetermined rate, usually lower than the utility rate. In both cases, the company owns, installs, and maintains the solar system, and you only pay for the energy you use. Solar leasing and PPA can help you save money on your electricity bills and avoid the hassle of owning and operating a solar system.

3 Low-income solar programs

Some states, utilities, and organizations offer low-income solar programs that provide grants, rebates, loans, or discounts for eligible customers who want to install solar panels on their homes or businesses. These programs aim to reduce the financial barriers and increase the access to solar power for low-income communities, especially those that are disproportionately affected by pollution and climate change. Some examples of low-income solar programs are the Single-Family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) program in California, the Solar for All program in Washington DC, and the Low-Income Solar Energy Program (LISEP) in New York.

4 Solar workforce development

Another way to make solar panel installation more accessible and beneficial for low-income communities is to support solar workforce development. This means providing training, education, and career opportunities for people who want to work in the solar industry, especially those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. By creating a diverse and skilled solar workforce, you can help meet the growing demand for solar installation and maintenance services, create local economic development, and empower communities to participate in the energy transition. Some examples of solar workforce development initiatives are the Solar Training Network, the Solar Ready Vets program, and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) Diversity Challenge.

5 Solar advocacy and education

Finally, one way to make solar panel installation more accessible and attractive for low-income communities is to engage in solar advocacy and education. This means raising awareness, sharing information, and influencing policies that support solar power and address the barriers and challenges that low-income communities face. By advocating and educating for solar power, you can help create a more favorable and equitable environment for solar adoption, mobilize community support and participation, and amplify the voices and needs of low-income customers. Some examples of solar advocacy and education groups are Vote Solar, Solar United Neighbors, and GRID Alternatives.