Author: hoosiers for community energy

Federal Community Solar Program Extends 31% Average Monthly Bill Savings to Low-Income Households
Good news for residents of states participating in the federal community solar program: Low-income households who subscribe through the Clean Energy Connector software can save an average of 31% on their monthly electricity bills.

The Clean Energy Connector is a digital tool that makes community solar subscriptions with savings more accessible to households participating in government-run, low-income support programs.

The initial phase of the federally run Clean Energy Connector program is offering subscriptions in Washington D.C., Illinois, and New Mexico. The Biden-Harris administration said this phase is expected to extend $15 million in annual savings to 40,000 households, which equates to about $31 in average monthly savings per household per month.
PV Magazine, April 8, 2024

Community solar is a great way for people who can’t install solar panels on their own roofs to benefit from solar energy. By subscribing to a community solar project, residents can purchase electricity from a shared solar installation. This can be a much more affordable option than installing solar panels on your own home.

The Clean Energy Connector software makes it easy for residents to find and subscribe to community solar projects. The software also tracks the amount of solar energy that each resident is using so they can be billed accordingly.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the Clean Energy Connector will be open to additional states throughout 2024 and 2025 if those states that have:
- Active community solar programs with specific measures to ensure access for low- to moderate-income customers.
- New low-income community solar capacity coming online and are seeking subscribers within the next year.
- Secured support for the Connector from both the state community solar and state Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program administering agencies. The agencies must agree to collaborate and commit staff resources to pilot the Connector.
Without a community solar program in place, Indiana will not be able to participate in this program.

What this means for Indiana in the long term

The extension of the federal community solar program to low-income households would be a positive development for Indiana. The program could help reduce energy costs for low-income residents, and it could also spur the development of new solar energy projects in the state.

Indiana has a lot of potential for solar energy development. The state has a large amount of unused land that could be used for solar farms. Additionally, Indiana has a relatively sunny climate, which makes it a good location for solar energy production.

The federal community solar program could help to accelerate the solar energy industry in Indiana. By making solar energy more affordable for low-income residents, the program could create a new market for solar energy developers. This could lead to the development of new solar farms in the state, which would create jobs and boost the state’s economy.

In addition to the economic benefits, the development of solar energy in Indiana would also have environmental benefits. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, which does not produce greenhouse gas emissions. By increasing its use of solar energy, Indiana could help to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change.

The extension of the federal community solar program to low-income households could be a huge opportunity for Indiana. As pilot programs launch in other states, we’ll be able to see the potential to help reduce energy costs for low-income residents, spur the development of new solar energy projects and create jobs that boost the state’s economy.
April 9, 2024
Turning Trash into Treasure: How Community Solar Could Breathe New Life into Landfills

Solar energy is a rapidly growing renewable energy source, but finding suitable locations for solar farms can be a challenge. In many cases, siting solar farms in neighborhoods can be met with opposition from residents. However, a new solution is emerging that could turn a potential eyesore into a valuable community asset: building community solar farms on landfills.

Landfills offer several advantages for solar development. They are often closed and capped, meaning they are no longer accepting waste and have a stable surface suitable for solar panels. Additionally, landfills are typically located on the outskirts of towns and cities, where they receive ample sunlight. Many landfills also have existing electrical infrastructure nearby, which can be used to connect the solar farm to the grid.

There are, however, some engineering challenges to consider when building solar farms on landfills. The landfill cap needs to be carefully engineered to support the weight of the solar panels and ensure that the panels do not disturb the landfill liner. Additionally, methane gas is a byproduct of decomposing waste in landfills, and special precautions need to be taken to ensure that the solar farm does not create a hazard.

Despite these challenges, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has created a new opportunities for solar development—on landfills and in other non-traditional spaces. The IRA includes tax credits for solar projects on brownfields, which is a term that encompasses landfills. These tax credits could significantly reduce the cost of developing solar farms on landfills, making them a more attractive option for developers.

Building community solar farms on landfills presents a potential a win-win proposition, especially in states like Indiana. It allows communities to generate clean, renewable energy while making use of land that would otherwise be unusable. The tax credits included in the IRA could help to accelerate this trend and make community solar on landfills a more common sight across the country.

April 8, 2024
Pennsylvania community solar legislation moves forward in House with promise of clean energy for renters

Community solar legislation is on the move in Pennsylvania after legislation cleared the House of Representatives last week by a 111-99 vote.

This innovative initiative will allow residents who rent their homes—among others—to benefit from the cost savings and environmental advantages of solar energy.

While the technology is growing in many communities, bill sponsor Allentown Democratic Rep. Peter Schweyer said areas like the one he represents – of which renters make up 65% – have row homes and historic districts where solar panels cannot be installed.

Not taking advantage of available federal grants, Schweyer said during a recent committee hearing, would decrease the likelihood of the bill moving forward. An emphasis was placed on making sure there are zero negative impacts on non-solar ratepayers.

“For years, we’ve been hung up on how to help the development of community solar,” he said during the floor vote Tuesday. “And many both inside our chamber and outside of our chamber have rightfully insisted that the costs of these developments should never be pushed onto other ratepayers.”
The Center Square, March 30

Breaking Down Barriers for Renters

Traditionally, renters have been excluded from the solar energy market due to the installation process typically requiring modifications to the roof. This new plan removes those barriers by focusing on community solar projects. Under this model, renters could subscribe to a solar farm and receive credits on their electricity bills for the power generated.

Federal Subsidies Paving the Way

The Pennsylvania plan leverages federal subsidies to make community solar accessible to renters. These subsidies will help offset the upfront costs associated with developing and maintaining solar farms, making solar energy a more attractive option for both renters and project developers.

Concerns and Considerations

While the plan represents a significant step forward, lawmakers have expressed concerns about the long-term costs of decommissioning solar panels once they reach the end of their lifespan. Addressing these concerns will be crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the program.

A Bright Future for Indiana

The success of Pennsylvania’s renter-friendly solar plan serves as a beacon of hope for states like Indiana that have yet to implement similar legislation. As Indiana grapples with its own energy future, exploring community solar initiatives that benefit all residents, regardless of their housing situation, should be a top priority.

By following Pennsylvania’s lead, Indiana could unlock the potential of solar energy and create a more equitable and sustainable energy landscape for all Hoosiers.

April 1, 2024
Utility Dive: “Utilities must come clean about the full value of community solar”

Independent community solar policy that creates competitive and transparent markets for development often draws pushback from monopoly-owned utilities.

Jeff Cramer, CEO of Coalition for Community Solar Access, and John Farrell, co-director of the Institute for Local Self Reliance, recently wrote an incredible opinion piece for Utility Dive making it clear why utilities are in opposition—and why they often misrepresent the truth.

It’s really rather simple: utilities often oppose customer-driven, third-party owned energy projects like community solar because they threaten to supplant utility investments and shareholder profits. They use “cost-shift” — the idea that when one ratepayer benefits, the others bear the cost — as their bogeyman. And because utility ratemaking happens in a black box, it’s hard for legislators to argue against it.

Community solar provides every household and business the opportunity to subscribe to solar energy without needing to install a system on site. The projects are typically 5 MW and below, serving up to 1,000 households, and a great way to bring bill savings to those who historically haven’t had access to clean energy. Leveraging millions in capital from individuals, businesses and entrepreneurs, community solar means accelerating an all-of-the-above approach to clean energy deployment.

But if we’re going to harness the benefits of community solar, we need the utilities to stop spreading misinformation about costs and come clean about the value these projects bring to the grid.

The truth is that research and numerous cost-benefit analyses show that investing in smaller projects built on the distribution network — like community and rooftop solar — bring unique benefits to all ratepayers on the grid. And when those benefits are properly accounted for, the costs for electric customers are virtually identical to utility-scale projects.
Utility Dive, March 2024

The question facing Hoosiers: Do we want a future defined by innovation, customer choice and healthier energy sources? Or will we cling to outdated monopolies that stifle progress and keep us in the dark ages of electricity?

We are at a crossroads when it comes to how we power our lives and homes, and community solar presents a massive opportunity.

Imagine a grid that’s smarter, cleaner, and puts more control in our hands. We can break free from the monopolies and build a system that lowers our bills, creates healthy competition and drives cutting-edge solutions that leave fossil fuels behind.

The power to shift our outdated grid could be in our hands, but only if we break through the misleading utility rhetoric and show how community solar can work for all Hoosiers.

March 29, 2024
Shine Bright in Indiana: The Power of Community Solar
Hoosiers across Indiana are seeking ways to save money on electricity and embrace clean energy. Community solar offers a revolutionary solution, allowing everyone to benefit from solar power, even if you can’t install panels on your own roof.

How Indiana’s Community Solar Works (or Why It Doesn’t… Yet)

Here’s a breakdown of community solar and its current status in Indiana:
- National Landscape: Across the country, community solar allows individuals, businesses, and organizations to subscribe to a portion of a shared solar array, receiving bill credits based on their share of energy produced.
- Indiana’s Situation: Unfortunately, Indiana has not yet legalized independent community solar programs. However, there are efforts underway to change this!
The Potential Benefits of Community Solar in Indiana

Even though Indiana doesn’t have independent community solar programs yet, here’s what Hoosiers can look forward to:
- Cost Savings: Subscribers can save on their electricity bills, often 10-15%.
- Accessibility: Renters, those with unsuitable roofs, or anyone who can’t afford a personal solar system can access solar benefits.
- Environmental Impact: Supports clean energy generation and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Grid Resilience: Boosts local power grids, making them more reliable.
- Community Investment: Community solar projects can bring economic development and jobs to local areas.
How Hoosiers Can Get Involved in Bringing Community Solar to Indiana

Here’s what you can do to advocate for community solar in Indiana:
1. Stay Informed: Follow organizations like Hoosiers for Community Solar to stay updated on advocacy efforts.
2. Contact Representatives: Voice your support for community solar to your state legislators.
3. Spread Awareness: Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the benefits of community solar and share resources on social media.
Conclusion

While Indiana hasn’t legalized independent community solar yet, there’s a bright future ahead. By staying informed and getting involved, Hoosiers can pave the way for a more sustainable and affordable energy future with community solar.
March 28, 2024
Virginia Mercury: “Bills could expand shared solar programs in Dominion, Appalachian Power territories”
A recent story out of Virginia could give hope to Hoosier advocates that community solar is within reach:

Two bills that would expand the public’s access to shared solar in Virginia are awaiting a signature from Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

Shared solar is a program in which solar developers allow people who may be unable to install solar panels on their property to pay a subscription fee to receive energy from their facility. The facilities must generate no more than five megawatts.

The program was created for Dominion Energy customers in 2022 to give property owners whose roofs are unsuitable to hold panels, or who reside on lots that don’t garner enough sunlight to produce electricity, the option of using renewable energy.

But the program was limited to just 150 megawatts of electricity and required a minimum bill charge to cover the costs for distribution and transmission services; low-income subscribers were exempt from paying.

As a result, two years since the program was created, only low-income subscribers have signed up for the program.
Virginia Mercury, March 25, 2024

These bills, aimed at removing regulatory barriers and incentivizing the development of shared solar projects in Dominion and Appalachian Power territories, signify a positive step towards a more equitable and renewable energy future. By facilitating the growth of community solar, policymakers can accelerate the transition to clean energy while ensuring that no community is left behind.

Community solar could bring enormous benefits to Indiana if lawmakers can agree on a statewide policy:
1. Access: One of the most significant advantages of community solar is its inclusivity. By eliminating the need for rooftop installations, community solar opens up renewable energy access to renters, homeowners with shaded roofs and those unable to afford upfront installation costs.
2. Cost Savings: Participants in community solar programs typically benefit from reduced electricity costs. As subscribers receive credits on their utility bills for their share of the solar production, they can lower their overall energy expenses while supporting clean energy generation.
3. Environmental Impact: Community solar contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. By harnessing the power of the sun, these programs promote sustainable energy practices and help combat climate change.
4. Community Engagement: Beyond environmental benefits, community solar fosters a sense of community involvement and cooperation. Local residents and businesses can come together to invest in renewable energy infrastructure, strengthening community bonds and promoting a shared commitment to sustainability.
Hoosier homes and businesses, including low-income families and underserved populations, need new options to expand access to the benefits that solar energy provides.
March 27, 2024
CNET Highlights Some of the Best Solar Panel Installation Companies in Indiana

The burgeoning community solar industry is proving to be a double win for many regions. Not only does it expand access to clean energy for residents who may not be able to install rooftop panels themselves, but it’s also creating a wave of new job opportunities.

These solar jobs often pay a prevailing wage and can include construction, engineering, sales and marketing, offering a chance for local residents to build fulfilling careers while contributing to a sustainable future for their communities.

As community solar projects take root across the country, they’re injecting fresh resources into local economies. The increased demand for skilled labor to develop, install and maintain these solar arrays can translate into a boon for employment rates.

CNET, which publishes reviews, news, articles, blogs, podcasts and videos about technology and consumer electronics globally, recently profiled some of the best Indiana solar installation companies:

Learn more about how solar energy and community solar can help Indiana build its clean energy economy.

March 14, 2024
The Inflation Reduction Act and Solar Energy: How Solar for All Could Expand Renewable Energy in Indiana
As Hoosiers continue to struggle with poor air quality, polluted waterways and soaring utility rates, the transition to renewable energy sources is crucial.

Indiana, with its abundant sunshine, holds immense potential for solar energy production. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Solar for All program is could be a significant step in this direction, aiming to empower low-income communities and bridge the gap in clean energy access.

What is the Solar for All Program?

The Solar for All program is a grant initiative established by the EPA to support states, territories, tribes, cities and non-profit organizations in their endeavors to increase solar energy use in low-income communities.

The program aims to make solar energy more accessible and affordable, fostering a more equitable renewable energy landscape.

Why is Expanding Solar Energy Important in Indiana?

Despite recent low rankings, Indiana has plenty of sunlight, which continues to make it a prime candidate for solar energy development. Expanding solar energy in the state offers a multitude of benefits:
- Environmental Protection: Solar energy is a clean and renewable resource, unlike traditional fossil fuels that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. By embracing solar energy, Indiana can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and the effects of climate change.
- Economic Growth: The solar energy industry is a burgeoning sector with the potential to create new jobs and stimulate economic growth in Indiana. Investing in solar energy infrastructure can attract businesses and create employment opportunities, particularly in the installation, maintenance and manufacturing sectors.
- Energy Independence: As Indiana increases its reliance on solar energy, it reduces its dependence on fossil fuels and mitigates the impact of fluctuating prices. This fosters energy independence and bolsters the state’s energy security.
- Community Benefits: The Solar for All program specifically targets low-income communities, ensuring they are not left behind in the clean energy transition. By providing financial assistance for solar panel installation, the program empowers these communities to reduce their energy bills and participate in the green energy revolution.
The Inflation Reduction Act and its Impact on Solar Energy

The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act includes significant provisions to incentivize solar energy adoption across the United States.

These incentives, including tax credits and rebates, are expected to further accelerate the growth of the solar industry and make solar energy even more affordable for individuals and communities.

The Solar for All program, coupled with the supportive measures outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act, presents an incredible opportunity for Indiana to harness its solar potential.

By embracing solar energy, Indiana can create a cleaner, more sustainable future, stimulate economic growth and ensure equitable access to clean energy for all its residents.
February 29, 2024
IndyStar: “Indiana ranked worst state for rooftop solar. Here’s why fewer Hoosiers have it.”
The Indianapolis Star recently reported on a new Consumer Affairs rating that ranks the Hoosier State dead last for rooftop solar:

Indiana’s legislators began phasing out this incentive in 2017, and the benefits of net metering for new solar installations ultimately expired in 2022.

Net metering’s incentives were replaced with a system that pays homeowners much less for that excess power they generate from the rooftop or residential solar installation. The erosion of these economic incentives by Indiana’s lawmakers has resulted in a reduction in rooftop solar installations.
Indianapolis Star, Feb. 26, 2024

Are there other ways Hoosiers might be able to access solar energy? It’s possible, thanks to a $7 billion federal effort that’s part of the Inflation Reduction Act.

How Solar for All Can Help States Leverage Community Solar to Expand Clean Energy

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding grants through a program called Solar for All to states, territories and other organizations to increase access to solar energy for low-income communities. The program aims to install solar panels on millions of low-income homes.

Community solar is a solar energy generation model in which a group of people share the benefits of a solar installation. This can be a great way for low-income residents to participate in the solar energy market, as they may not be able to afford to install solar panels on their own homes or may be renting the homes they live in.

Through this competition, Solar for All will award up to 60 grants to states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits to expand the number of low-income and disadvantaged communities primed for residential solar investment—enabling millions of low-income households to access affordable, resilient, and clean solar energy.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Feb. 7, 2024

Solar for All grants could potentially be used to support a variety of community solar projects, including:
- Installing solar panels on affordable housing developments
- Building community solar farms that serve low-income residents
- Developing solar energy programs for low-income communities
By leveraging community solar, states could use Solar for All grants to expand clean energy access and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits of Solar for All

Solar for All offers a number of benefits, including:
- Increased access to clean energy for low-income communities
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Job creation in the clean energy sector
- Economic development in low-income communities
February 27, 2024
Indiana Lags Behind in Solar Power: How Community Solar Can Help Us Shine Brighter
Indiana has been ranked as the least solar-friendly state in the nation, according to a new study by Consumer Affairs. This is due to a number of factors, including a lack of net metering policies, high upfront costs for solar panels and limited access to financing.

However, for Hoosiers hoping our state can adopt more clean energy and move toward a renewable future, there could a glimmer of hope on the horizon: community solar.

Community solar allows residents to subscribe to a local solar farm and receive bill credits for their share of the clean energy produced. This can make solar energy more affordable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their income or homeownership status.

Here are some of the benefits of community solar:
- Affordability: Community solar eliminates the upfront costs of installing solar panels, making it more affordable for everyone.
- Accessibility: Community solar makes solar energy available to renters, people who live in apartments or condos, and those who don’t have a suitable roof for solar panels.
- Environmental benefits: Community solar helps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.
- Economic benefits: Community solar creates local jobs and boosts the economy.
Indiana has the potential to be a leader in solar energy. By embracing community solar, we can create a cleaner, more affordable, and more equitable energy future for all Hoosiers.
February 16, 2024
Advocates celebrate 2024 Renewable Energy Day at the Indiana Statehouse
More than 200 Hoosiers from around the state convened today at the Indiana Statehouse to advocate for their energy rights at the sixth annual Renewable Energy Day. Participants met with their legislators throughout the day and attended a press conference featuring policymakers and advocates.

Selected quotes from press conference speakers:

Jalisa Mauldin, Indiana Outreach Director, Faith in Place

“The reason we have all boarded buses and left our regular weekday routines is for the chance to show our legislators that we care about Indiana’s clean energy future, and want to ensure that it includes the diverse communities and faces of Indiana.

“Whether you are a homeowner or renter; Whether you are young or old; Whether you live in rural or urban cities; Whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, or don’t subscribe to any party—Community Solar offers us all the accessibility, affordability, and reliability that we seek as Hoosiers.”

Indiana State Rep. Carey Hamilton

“You need to engage your local elected officials and candidates for office in this conversation ask them to commit to being renewable energy champions, to being community solar champions to being common sense energy policy champions.”

Bennett Fuson, EDP Renewables

“This group is indicative of the success we hope to achieve. It truly is amazing to see so many people here who are so interested in seeing renewable energy grow in indiana.

“I think this group sends a pretty powerful message, and that is that Hoosiers want renewable energy. Hoosiers expect renewable energy. When we talk about renewable energy in Indiana we’re talking about freedom and opportunity.”

2024 RED Event Sponsors:
- Center for Energy Education
- Citizens Action Coalition
- Citizens’ Climate Lobby
- Creation Care Partners
- Drive Clean Indiana
- Earth Care Bloomington
- Earth Charter Indiana
- EDP Renewables
- Energy Matters Community Coalition
- Faith in Place
- Geenex Solar
- Greater Indiana Clean Cities, Inc.
- Hoosier Chapter Sierra Club
- Hoosier Electric Vehicle Association
- Hoosier Environmental Council
- Hoosiers for Renewables
- IN-ACRE
- IndianaDG
- League of Women Voters of Indiana
- Morton Solar & Electric, LLC
- SIREN and Indiana Solar for All
- Solar Energy Solutions
- Solar United Neighbors
- Solarize Indiana
- Whole Sun Solar
February 13, 2024
Where Could Community Solar Be Installed in Indiana?

As Hoosiers pursue a sustainable future and lower energy costs, community solar has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering a pathway towards cleaner energy while fostering community engagement and resilience.

One of the remarkable aspects of community solar is its versatility—it can be implemented in a variety of spaces, breathing new life into underutilized areas. Let’s explore some of the places that can benefit from community solar, showcasing the transformative power of renewable energy.

Brownfield Sites: Reviving Abandoned Industrial Landscapes

Brownfield sites, once bustling hubs of industrial activity, now stand as reminders of a bygone era. These abandoned spaces often pose environmental challenges, contaminated by previous industrial processes. However, community solar presents an opportunity to repurpose these sites, transforming them into clean energy powerhouses. By installing solar panels on brownfield sites, communities can revitalize these areas, mitigating pollution while generating renewable energy. It’s a win-win scenario that breathes new life into forgotten landscapes.

Rooftops of Warehouses and Municipal Buildings: Utilizing Existing Infrastructure

Warehouses and municipal buildings dot the urban landscape, their rooftops often overlooked potential platforms for renewable energy generation. Community solar initiatives can leverage these existing structures, maximizing space efficiency and minimizing land use. By installing solar panels on rooftops, communities can harness the power of the sun without encroaching on precious green spaces. It’s a pragmatic approach that transforms idle rooftops into vibrant sources of clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Unneeded Parking Lot Space: Paving the Way for Solar Canopies

Parking lots, ubiquitous in urban and suburban areas, represent vast expanses of underutilized space. However, with the advent of solar canopies, these asphalt deserts can undergo a remarkable metamorphosis. Solar canopies, erected over parking lots, not only provide shade for vehicles but also harness solar energy, offsetting electricity costs and reducing carbon emissions. By repurposing unneeded parking lot space for solar infrastructure, communities can optimize land use while promoting sustainable transportation solutions.

Sub-prime Agricultural Land: Cultivating Solar Harvests

Sub-prime agricultural land, characterized by poor soil quality or limited agricultural potential, presents a unique opportunity for solar development. By deploying solar panels on these less-than-ideal farmlands, communities can diversify land use and bolster local economies. Agricultural solar installations allow farmers to continue generating revenue from their land while contributing to the renewable energy transition. It’s a symbiotic relationship between agriculture and solar energy, fostering resilience in rural communities and combating climate change.

Conclusion: Independent Community Solar Could Be Installed in a Variety of Places, Spaces Across Indiana

Community solar has the remarkable ability to transform spaces, breathing new life into neglected areas while advancing the transition to clean energy. From brownfield sites to unneeded parking lots, no space is beyond the reach of solar innovation.

By embracing community solar initiatives, communities can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also foster economic growth and community resilience. It’s time for our state to harness the power of the sun and embark on a journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

January 17, 2024
Empowering Hoosiers: Why Community Solar Makes Sense for Our State

In the heart of the heartland, where Hoosier values run deep, a new opportunity is emerging that aligns perfectly with our principles: community solar. Let’s delve into why this innovative approach to energy is not only compatible with Hoosier values but also essential for the prosperity of Indiana.

Energy Freedom: Choice and Competition

Hoosiers believe in the power of individual choice and competition. When it comes to energy, consumers should have the freedom to choose where and how they get their power. Community solar programs empower Hoosiers to take control of their energy options, breaking free from monopoly utilities and opening up a competitive marketplace where innovation thrives.

Economic Growth: Fostering Opportunity

Community solar isn’t just about clean energy; it’s about economic growth. By embracing this initiative, Indiana creates a new market for the solar industry, stimulating job growth and fostering entrepreneurship. A recent report from WorkingNation projects a significant increase in demand for green jobs in our state over the next five years, providing opportunities for our hardworking citizens to thrive.

Property Rights + Reuse: Maximizing Land Potential

Property rights are sacrosanct to Hoosiers, and community solar respects these rights while maximizing land potential. Farmers can lease their land to solar developers, diversifying their income streams and ensuring the continued prosperity of our agricultural communities. Additionally, community solar can breathe new life into brownfields and other underutilized land, turning liabilities into assets and revitalizing our landscapes.

Energy Resiliency: Security and Independence

Energy independence is vital for the security and prosperity of our state. By embracing community solar, we reduce our dependence on neighboring states and foreign energy sources. Homegrown Hoosier energy not only lowers costs for consumers but also enhances grid reliability, ensuring that our communities remain resilient in the face of external disruptions.

Energy Fairness: Inclusion and Opportunity

Hoosiers believe in fairness and opportunity for all. Community solar is a game-changer in this regard, ensuring that all Hoosiers can benefit from the transition to renewable energy. Low-income Hoosiers and communities of color, often overlooked in traditional energy policies, could have access to clean, affordable power with community solar. Moreover, renters and property owners alike can participate in the solar revolution, leveling the playing field and expanding ownership opportunities.

In conclusion, independent community solar embodies Hoosier values of freedom, economic growth, property rights, resiliency, and fairness. By embracing this initiative, Indiana can lead the way towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all Hoosiers. Let’s seize this opportunity to empower our communities, strengthen our economy, and safeguard our energy independence.

December 13, 2023
Hoosiers for Community Solar hosts Community Solar 101 Webinar

Are you curious about how community solar can revolutionize your energy consumption habits while making a positive impact on the environment? Look no further! Our Community Solar 101 webinar is designed to shed light on the incredible benefits of community solar and how it can transform not only your own energy usage but also benefit your entire community.

Watch the webinar and explore the advantages of embracing clean, renewable energy sources. Discover how community solar initiatives pave the way for a greener future, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable world. Plus, learn how you can potentially save on your energy bills by harnessing the power of the sun!

Our panel of experts will guide you through everything you need to know about community solar, offering valuable insights and practical tips to help you make informed decisions. From understanding the environmental impact to navigating the financial benefits, we’ve got you covered.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exclusive access to insider knowledge and unlock the full potential of solar energy for you and your community. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey towards a brighter, cleaner tomorrow!

In this webinar, you will discover how community solar can positively impact both you, your community and the environment. We will delve into the benefits of clean, renewable energy and how it can help you reduce your carbon footprint while potentially saving on energy bills. Our expert speakers will provide insights, answer your questions, and share valuable information about the opportunities that await you in the world of solar energy.

December 7, 2023
What Hoosiers Need To Know About What Independent Community Solar Is (And What It Isn’t)

Are you curious about how you can harness the power of solar energy without the hassle of rooftop installations? If you’re a Hoosier living in Indiana, locally owned community solar might be the answer you’re looking for. Let’s dive into what independent community solar is, what it isn’t, and why Indiana lawmakers need to make non-utility-owned community solar accessible in our state.

What community solar isn’t

Community Solar Is Not a Group Purchase for Rooftop Solar Panels

First things first, community solar isn’t the same as a solar co-op or a solarize campaign. These group efforts involve neighbors teaming up to get competitive prices on rooftop solar panels. However, in community solar, the dynamics are different. You’re not buying individual solar systems; instead, you’re investing in a shared solar project.

Community Solar Is Not Retail Supply

Some states offer the option to choose an energy supplier apart from your local utility company. While these suppliers might offer “retail supply” or “green power,” it’s often more expensive than what your utility charges. These options might not even be local, potentially coming from power sources miles away.

Community Solar Is Not Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding campaigns collect funds to build solar projects. People donate or invest money in these projects, sometimes earning a return on investment. However, with crowdfunding, you don’t directly receive credits for the electricity generated by the project.

What community solar is

Community Solar Is Access To Savings From Clean Energy

Community solar allows you to tap into the benefits of solar energy without needing solar panels on your property. By participating, you contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.

Community Solar Is An Affordable Alternative

Community solar projects often come with lower initial expenses, making clean energy more accessible to a broader audience.

Community Solar Can Mean Savings on Energy Bills

Ready for lower energy bills? When you join a community solar program, you receive credits on your electricity bill based on the energy your share of the solar panels generates. This translates to meaningful, long-term savings.

Community Solar Is Inclusive

Whether you’re a renter, apartment dweller, or homeowner with shaded roofs, community solar welcomes everyone. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can participate in the renewable energy movement.

Community Solar Creates Local Jobs

Solar installations have slowed down in our state since the expiration of net metering, which puts Hoosier jobs at risk. Community solar can reverse that trend with a strong community solar policy that creates clean energy jobs at the local level from solar developers, installers, manufacturers, consumers, subcontractors and more.

Community Solar Relieves Grid Strain

Community solar installations distribute energy generation across multiple sites, helping alleviate stress on the local power grid during peak demand, resulting in improved grid reliability.

Community Solar Boosts Energy Independence

By engaging in community solar, you’re actively decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and out-of-state energy sources. This move promotes energy independence and security for Indiana.

In a nutshell, community solar is a remarkable opportunity for Hoosiers in Indiana. It provides access to clean energy, offers financial benefits, creates jobs, and supports local sustainability.

We need solar for all, but Indiana doesn’t currently permit independent community solar. Learn more about what you can do to elevate this issue and let lawmakers know community solar will help our state, our economy and our communities.

August 25, 2023