There is a growing number of "community solar" projects across the country that aim to deliver renewable energy and the cost-savings it can provide to low-income households. Community or shared solar is broadly defined as a project where multiple participants own or lease shares in a mid-sized solar facility, usually between 500 kilowatts and 5 megawatts, and receive credits that lower their monthly utility bills based on how much power the facility delivers to the grid. However, the vast majority of subscribers are businesses, universities, government agencies, and higher-earning households instead of those who could benefit the most from these projects. As a result, several states such as New Jersey, Illinois, and Colorado have recently implemented policies designed to reach low-income communities, including quotas, waiving upfront costs, and awarding grants specifically for these communities.
