Executive Summary
Introduction
The report addresses the pressing energy challenges faced by underserved communities, particularly those of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and low- and moderate-income (LMI) households. These challenges include escalating energy costs, frequent power outages, and barriers to accessing energy efficiency services. The heightened energy burdens experienced by these communities, indicated by a disproportionate share of income spent on energy expenses and longer recovery times following grid disruptions, necessitate comprehensive strategies to address energy inequities.
Key Findings
To mitigate these issues, the report introduces commercial-scale solar and solar-plus-storage (solar + storage) programs as tools for community organizations to access clean energy solutions. It outlines:
- Program Types: Potential utility offerings designed to address community needs.
- Collaborative Guidance: Practical advice for effective partnership between utilities and community organizations.
- Enhancing Utility Programs: Methods for utilities to better serve historically underserved communities through community engagement.
Inspiration for these strategies comes from the work of three rounds of Solar Energy Innovation Network (SEIN) project teams, which have pioneered innovative approaches to solar and solar + storage solutions for underserved communities.
Use Cases
Four primary use cases for commercial solar and solar + storage are explored:
- Solar for Bill Savings: Reduces energy costs for building occupants, particularly renters.
- Solar + Storage for Bill Savings: Combines solar with energy storage to further reduce electricity expenses.
- Solar + Storage Microgrid for Outage Survivability: Ensures continuous power supply during grid disruptions, enhancing safety and reliability.
- Solar + Storage Microgrid for Community Resilience: Supports broader community resilience against energy crises, promoting social equity.
Collaboration Strategies
Community organizations are encouraged to prepare for discussions with utilities to drive tailored programs that meet specific community needs. This involves understanding utility offerings, preparing relevant data, and advocating for adaptations that address unique community challenges.
Conclusion
This report serves as a guide for community organizations and utilities to collaborate effectively, leveraging commercial solar and solar + storage solutions to address the specific energy needs of underserved communities. By focusing on practical applications and inclusive strategies, the report aims to facilitate a more equitable distribution of clean energy benefits, contributing to sustainable and resilient communities.
This summary highlights the main objectives and findings of the report, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between community organizations and utilities in addressing energy inequities faced by underserved communities. It provides a structured overview of the report's key sections and findings, ensuring clarity and ease of understanding.
