Tag: solar for all

Indiana Ranks 10th in the Nation for Solar Growth in 2024: A Bright Future for Renewable Energy

In 2024, Indiana emerged as a national leader in solar energy growth, securing the 10th spot in the United States for new solar capacity additions. This remarkable achievement underscores the state’s commitment to renewable energy and its potential to transform its energy landscape.

A significant contributor to this growth is the Mammoth Solar project, located in Pulaski and Starke Counties. With a planned capacity of 1,600 megawatts (MW), it stands as one of the largest photovoltaic power installations in the United States. The first phase, Mammoth North, began construction in March 2022 and was completed in July 2024, adding 480 MW to the grid. This project alone is expected to power approximately 250,000 homes, showcasing the tangible benefits of large-scale solar investments.

Beyond utility-scale projects, Indiana is poised to bring activate than $100 million in funds to bring solar energy to low-income communities across the state under the Solar Opportunities Indiana program.

Designed to spur the deployment of residential distributed solar energy, Solar Opportunities Indiana, which is part of the federal “Solar for All” program, will lower energy bills for Hoosiers and catalyze transformation in markets serving low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The state’s overall solar capacity reached 3,539 MW by the end of 2024, ranking 16th nationally in total installed capacity. This capacity is sufficient to power approximately 428,674 homes, with solar energy accounting for 3.67% of Indiana’s electricity production. The sector also supports 4,103 jobs, a positive impact for the state’s economy.

Indiana’s ascent in the national solar rankings is a testament to the collaborative efforts of policymakers, businesses and communities. By embracing renewable energy, the state is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also fostering economic growth and energy independence.

March 13, 2025
Indiana’s Solar Future in Limbo? What’s Next for Solar Opportunities Indiana and Community Solar

In recent years, Indiana has witnessed growing enthusiasm for integrating solar energy into its communities, with a focus on helping ensure energy equality in low-income neighborhoods.

Last year, the Solar Opportunities Indiana (SOI) program emerged as a beacon of hope, aiming to improve access to clean energy and foster environmental equality across the state. However, recent political shifts have cast uncertainty over the program’s future, leaving Hoosiers in a state of limbo regarding their clean energy aspirations.

The Rise of Solar Opportunities Indiana

In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded $117.4 million to Solar Opportunities Indiana, a coalition comprising municipalities, advocacy organizations, faith-based groups, educational institutions and renewable energy advocates. This funding, part of the EPA’s “Solar for All” initiative, was earmarked to expand equitable access to solar energy in low-income and disadvantaged Hoosier communities over a five-year span. Key initiatives under this program included direct financial assistance for solar installations, workforce development to cultivate a skilled solar industry workforce, community engagement to bolster public support and policy innovation to streamline solar market participation.

The announcement was met with widespread excitement. For many communities, this initiative represented not just an environmental advancement but also an economic opportunity. Lower energy bills, job creation and community empowerment were among the anticipated benefits.

A Sudden Halt: Funding Freeze and Its Implications

However, the momentum faced an unexpected challenge. In January 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order pausing billions of dollars in federal grants already legally allocated for clean energy projects approved and funded under the previous administration. This abrupt decision placed the future of programs like Solar Opportunities Indiana in jeopardy. Communities that had invested time and resources into planning and were on the cusp of implementation found themselves in a state of uncertainty.

For example, in Columbus, Indiana, a $4.42 million project aimed at providing solar energy to over 530 low- and moderate-income households hangs in the balance. A federal judge has ordered funding to proceed, but solar advocates are still unclear what the future will hold.

The Ripple Effect on Community Planning

The funding freeze has had a cascading effect on community planning and morale. Organizations and volunteers who had dedicated countless hours to these initiatives are now grappling with the possibility that their efforts may not come to fruition. This unpredictability hampers the ability of communities to strategize for a sustainable energy future, potentially deterring future participation in similar programs.

The Imperative for Community Solar Initiatives

The turbulence surrounding federal programs designed to help Hoosiers access renewable energy underscores a pressing need: the establishment and support of alternative solar energy avenues, including community solar projects. Community solar allows multiple participants to benefit from a single solar array, making solar energy accessible to those who may not have suitable rooftops or the financial means for individual installations.

By adopting policy that enables independent community solar, Indiana could mitigate the risks associated with political fluctuations and funding uncertainties. These projects can be tailored to local needs, ensuring that the transition to clean energy is both inclusive and resilient. Community solar and Solar Opportunities Indiana would work in tandem to create even more pathways to clean energy for Hoosiers.

Conclusion

While recent events have introduced uncertainty that hopefully will be resolved so that programs like Solar Opportunities Indiana can continue, they also illuminate the critical importance of diversifying and fortifying our approaches to clean energy adoption. Embracing community solar initiatives offers a viable path forward, ensuring that all Hoosiers, regardless of economic standing, can partake in and benefit from Indiana’s sustainable energy future.

March 12, 2025
NPR: “Why the U.S. government is spending $7 billion on solar for low-income homes”

Sometimes a news story comes along that has the perfect headline and offers the perfect explanation for why community solar is so needed across our country—and in Indiana—right now.

NPR recently published a piece on federal funding available through the “Solar for All” program that will help ensure low-income residents have access to solar energy that can lower their utility bills and improve other quality of life issues in local communities.

Rooftop solar adopters still tend to be wealthier than their neighbors. Rooftop solar panels and installation have a median cost of around $30,000 before government incentives, according to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). But prices for panels and installation are falling, and with more leasing and loan financing programs, there’s “a slow but steady movement” toward more low-income homes with rooftop solar, says Galen Barbose, staff scientist at LBNL.

The Solar for All grants aim to speed up that shift, says David Widawsky, director of the EPA’s Office of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, which manages the program.

But it isn’t just rooftop solar. Widawsky says the money will also go toward batteries that allow solar customers to store their energy. And it will go toward community solar, which allows customers to tap into solar generated at a shared site, like a solar farm.

Earlier this year, Indiana found out the state would receive more than $100 million in funding through the “Solar for All” program.

As part of these awards, a coalition of Indiana organizations and commissions was awarded nearly $117.5 million.

The Indiana Solar for All Coalition includes the Indiana Community Action Association, the Indiana NAACP and the cities of Fort Wayne, Gary and Indianapolis.

The funding will be used to create new incentives for solar energy for low-income residents and contribute to home energy savings. The award money will also go toward community solar installations, which provides solar energy access to multi-family homes, renters and those without ideal roof spaces.

The federal “Solar for All” program will open up significant new opportunities for low-income residents and renters across Indiana to access the benefits of solar energy.

Traditionally, solar energy has been out of reach for many in these communities due to the high upfront costs of installation and the lack of homeownership, which prevents renters from making such investments.

The “Solar for All” program aims to address these barriers by providing funding and support for community solar projects, where residents can subscribe to a shared solar array and receive credits on their electricity bills. This not only makes solar energy more accessible but also allows participants to save on their energy costs, contributing to economic relief for low-income households.

By making solar energy more inclusive, “Solar for All” will help bridge the equity gap in Indiana’s energy landscape, ensuring that all residents, regardless of income or housing status, can participate in and benefit from the state’s move toward a more sustainable future.

August 14, 2024
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.

May 13, 2024
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.

May 4, 2024
WRTV: “City of Indianapolis expanding access to solar energy through federal grants”
WRTV in Indianapolis recently ran a great story about how Indiana’s funding from the Solar for All program will be used by the city to build a community solar on the Southeast side:

“The main idea of community solar is that it creates equitable access to solar projects,” Lindsay Trameri with the Indianapolis Office of Sustainability said. “The energy doesn’t have to be created in and produced on your property. A lot of people, for a variety of reasons, aren’t great candidates for roof top solar.”
WRTV, April 2024, “City of Indianapolis expanding access to solar energy through federal grants”

Community solar allows property owners who can’t install solar panels on their own roof to subscribe to a solar field and receive a discount on their energy bill. This is a great option for people who rent their homes or who don’t have a suitable that’s suitable for solar panels.

The financial assistance program will help low- and middle-income Indianapolis residents overcome the upfront costs of installing solar panels on their homes. This will make solar energy more affordable for a wider range of people.

These programs are funded by grants from the Inflation Reduction Act, a recently passed federal law that is making significant investments in clean energy. This is a sign of the growing momentum behind solar energy in the United States.

Indianapolis’ solar expansion project is a great example of how cities can take advantage of federal funding to make solar energy more accessible to all residents. If other cities in Indiana follow suit, it could spark a community solar movement across the state.

Here are some additional benefits of community solar:
- Community solar can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
- Community solar can create jobs in the solar industry.
- Community solar can help to improve air quality.
By making solar energy more accessible to residents, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.
May 2, 2024
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.

April 25, 2024
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.”

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.

April 22, 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
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
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