Product Innovation to Increase Low-to-Moderate-Income Customers’ Adoption of Community Solar PV

Summary

This U.S. Department of Energy-funded project (Award DE-EE0008757, 2019-2023) by Energy Allies aimed to increase low-to-moderate-income (LMI) customer adoption of community solar. The study revealed that while the U.S. solar industry is growing rapidly (19.2 GW in 2020, 7 GW community solar expected 2022-2027), only 2% (65 MW) of community solar was dedicated to LMI by end of 2020. Through surveys of 1,493 potential customers and 254 developers/financiers, and analysis of 812 active project accounts, the research found that familiarity with community solar made individuals 4.4 times more likely to sign up, and 63% of developers prioritize LMI inclusion when mandated by policy. The project culminated in a 'best practice' contract guideline to promote more equitable community solar participation.

Key Facts

Source Document

https://example-government.gov/policy-document-link