Tag: policy

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 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Community Solar 

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. 

For many Hoosiers, installing solar panels is out of reach. Hoosier families and businesses—including low-income families, underserved populations, renters, condo owners and those restricted by HOAs—need new options to have access to the benefits that solar energy provides.

Independent, locally owned community solar offers a range of benefits for Hoosiers in the state of Indiana. Here are 10 reasons why community solar is advantageous for the local community:

1. Access to Clean Energy: Community solar allows residents to harness the power of renewable energy without the need for rooftop solar installations. This contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.
2. Affordability: Community solar projects often have lower upfront costs compared to individual solar installations. Participants can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the significant financial burden of purchasing and maintaining their own systems.
3. Savings on Energy Bills: By subscribing to a community solar program, participants typically receive credits on their electricity bills based on the energy generated by their share of the solar panels. This can lead to substantial long-term savings on energy costs.
4. Inclusive for All: Community solar is accessible to renters, individuals living in apartments, and homeowners with shaded or unsuitable roofs. It offers an opportunity for a broader range of residents to participate in the solar revolution.
5. Local Job Creation: Community solar projects require labor for construction, maintenance, and administration. This creates local job opportunities, stimulating the economy and fostering workforce development.
6. Reduced Grid Strain: Community solar installations distribute energy generation across multiple locations close to where that energy is needed, easing the strain on the local power grid during peak demand periods, thus enhancing grid reliability.
7. Supports Energy Independence: By investing in community solar, Hoosiers can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and out-of-state energy sources, promoting energy independence and security for the state with homegrown, Hoosier energy.
8. Property Rights: Community solar gives landowners the opportunity to lease their land to developers, diversifying their income. It also can be used on brownfields and other land types that are difficult to repurpose.
9. Local Investment: Participating in community solar allows residents to invest in local clean energy projects, keeping resources and benefits within the community and fostering a sense of pride and ownership.
10. Improving Public Health: Indiana is top of the charts for asthma and other health conditions related to poor air and water quality. That’s in part because we are still dependent on fossil fuels that pollute the air and poison our water. The quicker we can transition to clean energy sources at scale, the healthier our families and neighbors will be. 

Community solar offers a range of advantages for Hoosiers in Indiana, including access to clean energy, cost savings, job creation, and increased community engagement. It represents a step towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future for the state.

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. 

For many Hoosiers, installing solar panels is out of reach. Hoosier families and businesses—including low-income families, underserved populations, renters, condo owners and those restricted by HOAs—need new options to have access to the benefits that solar energy provides.

Independent, locally owned community solar offers a range of benefits for Hoosiers in the state of Indiana. Here are 10 reasons why community solar is advantageous for the local community:

1. Access to Clean Energy: Community solar allows residents to harness the power of renewable energy without the need for rooftop solar installations. This contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.
2. Affordability: Community solar projects often have lower upfront costs compared to individual solar installations. Participants can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the significant financial burden of purchasing and maintaining their own systems.
3. Savings on Energy Bills: By subscribing to a community solar program, participants typically receive credits on their electricity bills based on the energy generated by their share of the solar panels. This can lead to substantial long-term savings on energy costs.
4. Inclusive for All: Community solar is accessible to renters, individuals living in apartments, and homeowners with shaded or unsuitable roofs. It offers an opportunity for a broader range of residents to participate in the solar revolution.
5. Local Job Creation: Community solar projects require labor for construction, maintenance, and administration. This creates local job opportunities, stimulating the economy and fostering workforce development.
6. Reduced Grid Strain: Community solar installations distribute energy generation across multiple locations close to where that energy is needed, easing the strain on the local power grid during peak demand periods, thus enhancing grid reliability.
7. Supports Energy Independence: By investing in community solar, Hoosiers can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and out-of-state energy sources, promoting energy independence and security for the state with homegrown, Hoosier energy.
8. Property Rights: Community solar gives landowners the opportunity to lease their land to developers, diversifying their income. It also can be used on brownfields and other land types that are difficult to repurpose.
9. Local Investment: Participating in community solar allows residents to invest in local clean energy projects, keeping resources and benefits within the community and fostering a sense of pride and ownership.
10. Improving Public Health: Indiana is top of the charts for asthma and other health conditions related to poor air and water quality. That’s in part because we are still dependent on fossil fuels that pollute the air and poison our water. The quicker we can transition to clean energy sources at scale, the healthier our families and neighbors will be. 

Community solar offers a range of advantages for Hoosiers in Indiana, including access to clean energy, cost savings, job creation, and increased community engagement. It represents a step towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future for the state.

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. 

INDIANAPOLIS—A coalition of organizations hoping to bring community solar access to Indiana today launched Hoosiers for Community Solar.

The new group will educate Hoosiers about the benefits of community solar and push for potential policy changes that will ensure access to community solar across the state. 

“Community solar” refers to a solar energy system where multiple customers, including households, small businesses, churches, schools, and local governments, can subscribe to receive a credit on their utility bill for a share of the power the solar panels produce.

The coalition includes organizations representing different constituencies that share a vision for:

• 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

Founding organizations include:

• Audubon Great Lakes
• Citizens Action Coalition
• Citizens’ Climate Lobby Indiana
• Coalition for Community Solar Access
• Conservatives for a Clean Energy Future
• Evangelical Environmental Network
• Faith in Place
• Hoosier Environmental Council
• Indiana Conservation Voters
• Indiana Conservative Alliance for Energy
• Indiana DG
• Land and Liberty Coalition
• The Nature Conservancy in Indiana
• Solar United Neighbors

QUOTES FROM HOOSIERS FOR COMMUNITY SOLAR MEMBERS:

Adam Forrer, Policy Director of Climate, Audubon Great Lakes: “Renewable energy sources, like solar, are key to reducing pollution, to protect vulnerable birds, other wildlife and communities across Indiana. Polling released by Audubon Great Lakes last year found that 70 percent of Hoosiers believe the state government should do more to expand the use of solar power. Programs like community solar make it possible for those who cannot put solar panels on their own rooftop to still receive the benefits of solar, while helping to speed up Indiana’s transition to a reliable, renewable and affordable energy future.”

Kerwin Olson, Executive Director, Citizens Action Coalition: “Authorizing third-party owned and operated community solar is a no-brainer. All consumers, regardless of their zip code or their income, should be able to participate in the 21st Century energy economy and realize the economic benefits associated with solar energy.”

Marcia Veldman, Indiana Coordinator, Citizens’ Climate Lobby: “Broadly speaking, Citizens’ Climate Lobby Indiana supports legislative policies that will expedite a transformation of the nation’s energy sector to clean sources of energy.  Supporting community solar in Indiana fits nicely in our overall policy emphasis since it should facilitate a more rapid growth in electricity generation from solar energy, thus increasing its availability to a broader segment of Hoosier citizens.”

Rev. Kyle Meyaard-Schaap, Vice President, Evangelical Environmental Network: “In 2019, more than 21,000 pro-life Hoosiers called on policymakers to advance clean energy solutions in Indiana because they understand that access to clean, affordable, renewable energy is a crucial part of defending the sacred gift of life at all of its precious stages. Right now, monopolistic utilities decide for Hoosiers how their energy is generated. By increasing community solar opportunities, we can put choice and energy freedom back into the hands of each and every Hoosier to decide for themselves.”

Christine Glaser, Indiana Policy Director, Faith in Place: “Community solar is a critical piece of the puzzle in helping Indiana transition away from dirty, expensive fossil fuel. Community solar projects expand the availability of clean, solar energy in Indiana by providing new options for people to be active participants in this transition. That includes low-income families, residents in multifamily dwellings, renters,  and anyone with a roof that is not suitable for a solar installation!”

Sam Carpenter, Executive Director, Hoosier Environmental Council: “Hoosier Environmental Council enthusiastically supports bringing local community solar to Indiana. Hoosiers deserve a choice in how they get their power, and community solar will enable more Hoosiers to make that choice.  Our state’s energy demands are growing, we need community solar as part of the mix to meet that demand.”

Former State Rep. Chris Chyung, Executive Director, Indiana Conservation Voters:  “Across party lines, Indiana voters crave the freedom to determine their own solutions for clean, cheap, reliable energy — community solar is a win for all Hoosiers.”

Zach Schalk, Indiana Program Director, Solar United Neighbors: “Enabling real community solar in Indiana will empower more families to enjoy the benefits of local clean energy. Harvesting the sunshine to produce clean, homegrown Hoosier electricity close to where it’s needed strengthens the grid while lowering costs for every electric customer. With electric bills on the rise, all Hoosiers deserve the right to choose local clean energy and save.” 

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