Enhancing solar power access in Southern California's underserved communities

Enhancing solar power access in Southern California's underserved communities
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 29, 2024

The Clean Power Alliance of Southern California has released its quarterly report highlighting progress in its Disadvantaged Communities Green Tariff and Community Solar Green Tariff programs. These initiatives aim to extend renewable energy's benefits to low-income and disadvantaged areas, supporting California's goals for social equity and environmental sustainability.

While no new projects commenced this quarter, the existing programs continue to deliver clean, reduced-cost energy to numerous households, supported by allocated capacities of 12.19 MW for the Disadvantaged Communities Green Tariff and 3.37 MW for the Community Solar Green Tariff.

Matthew Langer, Chief Operating Officer of the Clean Power Alliance, underscored the importance of these initiatives. "Our Green Tariff programs are designed not only to reduce energy bills for low-income Californians but also to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy reach those who are often left behind in the green transition," said Langer.

These programs, which use California's CalEnviroScreen tool to identify target communities, aim to promote social equity and advance state clean energy objectives. Eligible residents receive a 20% discount on electricity bills, promoting broader community engagement with solar power. Although no additional capacity was introduced this period, the alliance continues to serve a substantial customer base.

Moving forward, the Clean Power Alliance's program capacities are fully subscribed as it focuses on enhancing the impact of existing resources. Several new projects are anticipated to begin by year-end, potentially increasing the reach and effectiveness of these initiatives.

The success of these programs has positioned the alliance as a national model for integrating renewable energy into utility services, particularly for addressing energy disparities. The proactive inclusion of disadvantaged communities in these initiatives not only aligns with California's environmental objectives but also fosters a more inclusive approach to renewable energy adoption.

The Clean Power Alliance encourages community participation and stakeholder engagement in ongoing public discussions to evolve these programs further.

For additional information or to get involved, please contact the Clean Power Alliance through their website or attend forthcoming California Public Utilities Commission meetings discussing these initiatives.

Research Report:Net Energy Metering Rulemaking (R.)14-07-002