Expanding Community Solar Access: Mandatory Programs and Consumer Choice.
This Act mandates electric utilities to offer community solar programs, ensuring that all customers, especially low- and moderate-income individuals who cannot install rooftop solar, gain equitable access to solar energy benefits. The goal is to allow subscribers to offset their electricity bills using power generated by shared solar facilities. The Department of Energy will establish programs to provide technical and financial assistance to support these initiatives.
Key points
Utility Requirement: Electric utilities must offer community solar programs accessible to all ratepayers, including those with low incomes, ensuring broader participation in renewable energy.
Lower Energy Costs: Subscribers can reduce their monthly electricity charges by receiving credit for the power generated by the community solar facility they participate in.
Federal Support: The Department of Energy will provide technical assistance and align existing federal programs to help states and local governments develop affordable and competitive solar financing models.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5259
Sponsor: Sen. Lujan, Ben Ray [D-NM]
Process start date: 2024-09-25