The National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) and the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) have released a new resource, Key Elements to Consider for a Low- and Moderate-Income Community Solar Project, a checklist that details key steps and considerations for State Energy Offices and State Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Offices interested in supporting the development of community solar projects that are accessible to lower-income communities and households. It offers guidance for program planning, financing and identifying sites for projects, supporting and protecting customers, and tracking progress; additionally, it emphasizes the importance of continued stakeholder engagement to elevate the priorities and needs of target communities.
The Inclusive Shared Solar Initiative (ISSI) is a multi-state partnership coordinated by NASEO and NEADA. Its goal is to make community solar more accessible to lower-income households through innovative partnerships among State Energy Offices, offices, solar providers, utilities, community-based organizations, and other key stakeholders. It is guided by an Advisory Group of experts and thought leaders in community solar financing, project development, policy, and stakeholder engagement.
The “Key Elements to Consider for a Low- and Moderate-Income Community Solar Project” checklist is part of ISSI’s growing resource library, available at https://naseo.org/issues/solar/issi, which includes reports, publications, and briefings on various aspects of community solar development, including Guiding Principles and Model Program Characteristics, Financing and Funding Options, and other examples and case studies of relevance to states.
State Energy Offices and State LIHEAP Agencies are invited to participate in monthly ISSI meetings and technical assistance opportunities. To learn more, contact Sandy Fazeli (sfazeli@naseo.org).