Tag: inflation reduction act

  • A familiar refrain? States are getting funding for community solar—but they might not be able to use it.

    A familiar refrain? States are getting funding for community solar—but they might not be able to use it.

    Indiana isn’t alone facing hurdles potentially deploying millions of dollars in new federal funding aimed at helping low- and middle-income households access the benefits of solar energy.

    Wisconsin leaders are celebrating a $62 million grant from the Biden administration to help install solar power in homes and in community projects.

    But there’s a catch: Those types of solar projects in neighborhoods and on multi-family buildings can conflict with state law.

    It’s unclear at this point how state agencies and solar proponents will get around that complication. The question is expected to be answered in the coming months as stakeholders and the state finalize the grant planning. 

    The Cap Times, May 2024, “Wisconsin can pay for solar on thousands of homes, but faces hurdles”

    Wisconsin, like Indiana and more than 20 other states, has laws that make it difficult for residents to access independent or third-party community solar projects. These laws are often written in a way that benefits monopoly utilities, which can make it more expensive and time-consuming for residents to go solar.

    There are a number of reasons why states should change their laws to make it easier for residents to access independent or third-party community solar projects. First, community solar can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Second, it can create jobs and boost the economy. Third, it can help to lower electricity bills for residents.

    The goal of the federally funded Solar for All program is to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for all Americans, particularly those in disadvantaged communities, while also promoting environmental sustainability and economic development.

    In Indiana, there is a growing movement to change the state’s laws to make it easier for residents to access community solar. In 2022, the Indiana General Assembly passed a law that protects the property rights of Hoosiers who want to go solar. The law provides a clear path for homeowners in restrictive HOAs to get approval from their neighbors to install solar panels.

    However, there is still more that can be done to make community solar more accessible in Indiana. The state should pass a law that allows for the creation of independent community solar projects. This would allow residents to choose from a variety of solar providers and get the best possible price for solar energy.

    In addition, the state could provide incentives for community solar projects. This would help to make solar more affordable for residents and businesses.

    Finally, the state could educate residents about the benefits of community solar. This would help to raise awareness of the issue and encourage more people to support community solar.

    By taking these steps, Indiana can make it easier for residents to access community solar and reap the benefits of this clean energy source.

  • Stateline.org: “Can’t install your own solar panels? Some areas let you join a community project.”

    Stateline.org: “Can’t install your own solar panels? Some areas let you join a community project.”

    There’s no other way to say it: This recent article from Stateline.org is fantastic—and makes the clear case why we need independent community solar here in Indiana.

    This year, lawmakers in at least 10 states have put forward bills that would enable or expand community solar programs, driven in part by federal funding opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act. Citing consumer choice and affordability, a growing number of Republican lawmakers have sponsored such proposals, including in seven of those states.

    But some bills have stalled amid strong opposition from utilities, which have argued that community solar programs don’t account for costs such as billing overhead and distribution fees, which are passed on to non-subscribing ratepayers.

    Stateline.org, May 2024, “Can’t install your own solar panels? Some areas let you join a community project.”

    There are lots of reasons why monopoly utilities don’t like independent community solar laws that put power directly in the hands of local communities.

    • Loss of Control and Profit: Monopoly utilities traditionally hold exclusive power over energy generation and distribution. Community solar disrupts this model, empowering individuals and communities to generate their own electricity. This decentralization reduces utilities’ control over the market and can lead to decreased profits.
    • Reduced Revenue: When homeowners and businesses install rooftop solar or subscribe to community solar projects, they purchase less electricity from the utility. This can directly impact the utility’s bottom line.
    • Perceived Threat to Reliability: Utilities sometimes express concerns that community solar projects could destabilize the grid. However, with proper planning and integration, these concerns can be addressed, and community solar can actually add to grid resilience.
    • Challenges to Existing Business Model: The traditional utility model is based on building large, centralized power plants. Community solar is a decentralized model, requiring utilities to adapt their business practices and infrastructure. This transition can be perceived as costly and complicated.

    “[Utilities] would rather have their monopoly on the grid, and they have their claws in the entire political ecosystem,” said Matt Hargarten, public affairs director with the Coalition for Community Solar.

    Stateline.org, May 2024, “Can’t install your own solar panels? Some areas let you join a community project.”

    In some cases, utilities will be supportive of community solar—but only if they’re in charge of it.

    But advocates say such utility-run programs aren’t truly community solar, as they fail to reach the scale and cost savings of those offered by third-party developers.

    “What’s important is creating a competitive market that allows for non-utility project developers,” said Maria McCoy, a researcher with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a nonprofit that seeks to empower local communities. “Subscribers should save money and not be paying a premium.”

    Stateline.org, May 2024, “Can’t install your own solar panels? Some areas let you join a community project.”

    Despite the clear advantages of community solar, Indiana currently lacks comprehensive legislation to enable and promote these programs. While some utilities may offer limited community solar options, these programs are often restricted and don’t meet the full potential of community solar.

    That’s why Indiana needs independent community solar. Our shared vision is a statewide policy that supports:

    • Community and other independent ownership of community solar
    • Tangible savings for subscribers
    • Competitive and transparent markets for community solar development
    • Equitable access to the benefits of community solar for all Hoosiers

    By enacting independent community solar legislation, Indiana can unlock the potential of this clean energy source and join other states that already are leading the way for their residents.

  • Columbus Republic: “Grant will energize an array of solar in Columbus”

    Columbus Republic: “Grant will energize an array of solar in Columbus”

    Indiana received welcome news on Earth Day this year that our state will soon receive more than $100 million in federal funding to help bring solar energy to low- and middle-income Hoosiers.

    This recent editorial in the Columbus Republic sums up why this funding is so important for the future of our state:

    Solar power has been a growing part of our energy mix in recent years because economically, it makes long-term sense and it’s environmentally sustainable. But because the upfront installation costs are high, solar has been out of reach for most households and cost-prohibitive for low-income households.

    But this grant, and the shovel-ready projects that local stakeholders have designed for Columbus, show that it doesn’t have to be that way.

    A few hundred low-income households in Columbus will get solar power as a result of this grant. But from an economic and sustainability standpoint, everyone in the city will benefit.

    Columbus Republic, May 2024, “Editorial: Grant will energize an array of solar in Columbus”

    The Indiana coalition was awarded funding for a solar energy program that is part of a national effort to ensure low-income families have access to solar energy. This program will benefit low-income families by reducing their energy bills and improving air quality. Community solar installations will also create local jobs as they are being built.

    Unfortunately, right now independent community solar developments are not allowed under Indiana law.

    In order to maximize the benefits of solar energy in Indiana, lawmakers can use this moment to change the law to allow independent community solar development across the state so Hoosiers who cannot install solar panels on their own roof can benefit from the clean energy and cost savings of solar.

    By allowing independent community solar development, Indiana can create more jobs, improve air quality and help more Hoosiers save money on their electric bills.

  • Solar for All? Federal Investment in Indiana Will Help Low-Income Hoosier Families

    Solar for All? Federal Investment in Indiana Will Help Low-Income Hoosier Families

    The White House and the EPA made a big splash on Earth Day with their announcement of $7 billion in funding to make sure solar energy is available to low-income families.

    The Solar for All funding is the jump-start we need to ensure equitable access to solar energy and to get the transition to clean energy moving quicker.

    Solar for All is ​“unprecedented,” said Warren Leon, executive director of the Clean Energy States Alliance. ​“There’s never been an initiative anywhere near as big for expanding solar for the benefit of low- and moderate-income households across the country. This is going to give a tremendous boost to an important share of the solar market that has not received sufficient attention in the past.”

    The 60 selected programs, administered by state agencies, municipalities, tribal governments, and nonprofits, will use grants and low-cost financing to develop community solar, rooftop solar, and battery storage for individual homes and multifamily affordable buildings.

    In some cases, the Solar for All grants will help grow existing programs, including large ones in California and New York, Leon said. But for 25 states and territories, this will be the first time they’re getting low-income solar programs, he noted. Among the newcomers — most of them Republican-leaning states — are Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

    Canary Media, April 2024, “Solar is about to get a lot more affordable for low-income households”

    Indiana is one of those states—and this funding could be a game-changer, both for traditional solar installations as well as independent community solar if the state’s laws are redesigned to allow for it.

    Traditionally, upfront costs have been a barrier for many Hoosiers to consider solar panels for their homes. This funding will help address that by creating new incentives, such as rebates or tax breaks, that can significantly reduce the financial burden.

    With a community solar law in place that allows independent, local projects to move forward, solar could truly become a reality for tens of thousands more Hoosiers. Community solar projects allow renters, those in multi-family homes and others who cannot put solar on their rooftops to benefit from solar energy by subscribing to a community solar farm and receiving credits on their electricity bills.

    Overall, this federal funding is a huge step forward in making solar energy a viable option for more Indiana residents. It will lower energy costs for low-income families, create jobs in the solar industry and move the state closer to its clean energy goals.

  • BREAKING: Feds Announce Solar For All Grants, Indiana Awarded $117 Million

    BREAKING: Feds Announce Solar For All Grants, Indiana Awarded $117 Million

    Big news for solar energy and community solar in Indiana: Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced 60 grantees that will receive $7 billion in awards through the Solar for All grant competition to deliver residential solar projects to over 900,000 households nationwide. The grant competition is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, which created EPA’s $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.

    An application from the Indiana Community Action Association, Inc. (IN-CAA) was selected to receive more than $117 million in funding.

    “SFA Indiana (SFAI) is a coalition of municipal governments and community entities in Fort Wayne, Gary, Indianapolis, and Columbus, combined with six statewide organizations. The coalition will collectively solarize low-income homes while transforming the market in Indiana by creating new financial products and incentives that jumpstart solar for low-income residents, new affordable housing developments, and more. In dialogue with utility companies, and in tandem with school-to-work industry development efforts, the coalition is committed to leading toward solar in Indiana from the grassroots upward.”

    A screenshot image of the award amount for Indiana's Solar for All grant of more than $117 million.

    From the EPA press release:

    “Solar is the cheapest form of electricity—and one of the best ways to lower energy costs for American families,” said John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy. “Today’s announcement of EPA’s Solar for All awards will mean that low-income communities, and not just well-off communities, will feel the cost-saving benefits of solar thanks to this investment.”

    “Residential solar electricity leads to reduced monthly utility bills, reduced levels of air pollution in neighborhoods, and ultimately healthier communities, but too often low-income and disadvantaged communities have been left out. Today’s announcement will invest billions to ensure that affordable housing across the U.S. can access solar and increase energy efficiency and climate resilience,” said U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “HUD is honored to have played a key role in today’s monumental announcement, which will provide meaningful household savings to households in low-income and disadvantaged communities, reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, and deliver electricity during grid outages for low-income households.”

    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, April 2024, “Biden-Harris Administration Announces $7 Billion Solar for All Grants to Deliver Residential Solar, Saving Low-Income Americans $350 Million Annually and Advancing Environmental Justice Across America”

    With a community solar law in Indiana that would allow independent community solar projects, this funding could unlock clean energy for low- and middle-incoming communities across the state.

    Community solar would allow Hoosiers who can’t install panels on their roof, like renters or those with unsuitable roof space, to enjoy the perks of solar energy. By subscribing to a local solar farm, residents would receive credits on their electricity bills for their share of the power produced. This could translate to savings of 10-15% on their energy costs. Furthermore, community solar farms would bolster Indiana’s clean energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a healthier environment.

    Today’s announcement is an exciting reminder of the ongoing expansion of solar energy nationwide and here in Indiana—and the potential we have to bring clean energy to all Hoosiers.

  • In Boston, a Vision for a Future Powered by the Sun and Owned by the Community

    In Boston, a Vision for a Future Powered by the Sun and Owned by the Community

    The Boston Community Solar Cooperative kicked off about 15 months ago in the wake of the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides a number of ways to embrace solar energy.

    Like us, they’re not just focused on community solar, but on local, independent ownership of community solar.

    From their website:

    Graphic from Boston Community Solar Cooperative website that says "Ownership matters. Energy resources are essential, and we believe they should be in the hands of the people who use them. We advocate for local cooperative ownership of solar installations, fostering a community that exercises control over its energy sources and reaps the rewards."

    The group’s founder recently sat down for a Q&A about their plan to place a solar project on the roof of the Dorchester Food Co-op and to launch a community-owned solar cooperative.

    Community solar, as a concept, has been around for probably a little over 15 years. The idea behind community-owned solar was that many households or renters may not have locations that are suitable for installing a solar array on a rooftop, so community solar was born out of the idea that we could have a solar system somewhere on the grid, and people who use [its] power somewhere else on the grid.

    At the Boston Community Solar Cooperative, we are creating what we refer to as a “community solar 2.0 model.” This is a model where, in addition to trying to provide the environmental benefit of clean energy — meaning lower costs, no fossil fuel use to generate power — we’re also trying to help communities with the wealth gap by having members of communities actually own the solar arrays that are used to generate power.

    WGBH, April 2024, “A Boston nonprofit is bringing community-owned solar power — and profit — to low-income neighborhoods”

    In urban landscapes like Boston across the nation, nonprofit organizations are pioneering community-owned solar power projects aimed at bringing renewable energy—and its economic benefits—directly to low-income neighborhoods.

    These projects typically involve local residents in the planning and implementation stages, ensuring that the community not only benefits from reduced energy costs but also receives a share of the profits generated. This model not only promotes environmental sustainability but also economic empowerment by creating jobs and providing training opportunities in the burgeoning green tech sector.

    These kind of initiatives often rely on government grants, private donations and innovative financing models to overcome the initial cost barriers associated with solar installations. Once operational, these solar arrays can significantly reduce energy bills for community members and generate revenue from excess power sold back to the grid.

    The success of these projects hinges on community engagement. Educational workshops and meetings help demystify the technology and the economics of solar power, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among participants. Moreover, these projects serve as tangible demonstrations of the feasibility and benefits of renewable energy, inspiring other communities to pursue similar initiatives.

    As more cities recognize the potential of community-owned solar power, this model could serve as a blueprint for sustainable development, particularly in underserved areas. By investing in renewable energy, we’re not only protecting the environment but also ensuring that its benefits reach all segments of society, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

  • Turning Trash into Treasure: How Community Solar Could Breathe New Life into Landfills

    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.

  • Shine Bright in Indiana: The Power of Community Solar

    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.

  • The Inflation Reduction Act and Solar Energy: How Solar for All Could Expand Renewable Energy in Indiana

    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.

  • IndyStar: “Indiana ranked worst state for rooftop solar. Here’s why fewer Hoosiers have it.”

    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