The US Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) has released a community solar policy decision tool that provides actionable recommendations for developing community solar programmes nationwide.
The first-of-its-kind decision matrix comes as community solar is rapidly emerging as a promising new source of demand across the country. It provides detailed guidance on how to best implement community solar programmes and drafting policies.
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“Community solar is a nascent industry, but we’re growing fast,” explained CCSA executive director Jeff Cramer. “With this tool, CCSA is providing actionable recommendations to policymakers seeking to develop successful community solar programmes in their states and localities. The “why” of community solar is simple: It is the way to make solar an option for the 80% of Americans who aren’t able to put solar on their own roofs. But the 'how' – updating some of the outdated rules of our electric system to properly account for these new local power sources can be complex. This decision matrix is intended to help guide policymakers in designing programmes that work for their communities.”
The decision tool is divided into five sections: programme structure, compensation, consumer participation, project characteristics and low-moderate-income considerations. It is intended to be the first version of a reference guide that will be updated and renewed as community solar expands across the country; expanding access to solar for all.
