Unifying Forces in Solar Power: Amplifying Access with Energy Allies & Solar United Neighbors

In a significant move to broaden access to solar energy, two leading non-profit organizations, Energy Allies and Solar United Neighbors (SUN), have announced their upcoming merger. With a combined experience of over 25 years in the solar market, this partnership aims to tackle the inequities in solar energy access and deliver its economic benefits to low- and moderate-income families. Energy Allies will contribute its deep expertise in community solar to complement SUN's extensive experience with rooftop solar systems.

"In a world brimming with sunlight, it's paradoxical that not everyone can harness its power," says Anya Schoolman, Executive Director at Solar United Neighbors. "Our partnership with Energy Allies provides a unique opportunity to empower more households to save money by controlling their energy sources."

Expanding Solar Access: A Proven Model

For the past five years, Solar United Neighbors has successfully implemented rooftop solar installations for families within low- and moderate-income brackets. The organization has developed a flexible model that can be tailored to various communities across the country, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Their group purchasing model positions solar energy as a wealth-generating tool, promoting ownership regardless of income level.

By enabling homeowners to install rooftop solar from the outset, SUN offers the most cost-effective solution for moderate- and low-income homeowners. Solar ownership not only reduces energy costs but also increases property values and, in some areas, generates additional income through solar renewable energy credits. This approach has been particularly beneficial for families within these income groups.

"A fair and equitable transition to clean energy cannot happen if many families are excluded from accessing affordable, renewable energy," states Yesenia Rivera, Executive Director of Energy Allies. The organization, a strong proponent of community-driven approaches, actively encourages communities to take the lead in their solar projects.

Leadership and Vision for Energy Equity

As the new Vice President of Energy Equity and Inclusion at SUN, Yesenia Rivera brings invaluable experience in community mobilization from climate-impacted areas, along with strong skills in managing solar projects. Her leadership is expected to drive SUN’s commitment to equity and inclusion in the clean energy transition.

Energy Allies have been diligently working to identify and overcome barriers to community solar success. Their community-centered approach prioritizes the involvement of climate-vulnerable regions in decision-making processes during solar project implementation. The success of their efforts underscores the advantages of a community-led approach, which has yielded substantial benefits for local communities.

Community Solar: Bridging the Gap for Renters and Non-Homeowners

The way families access clean energy is largely determined by their homeownership status. It is important to note that a significant portion of low- to moderate-income families (53%) are renters. Renters are critical participants in driving the clean energy revolution. Community solar, therefore, emerges as the primary avenue for renters and those without solar-compatible roofs to begin their clean energy journey. To bridge this gap, SUN and Energy Allies will pool their expertise to assist such families in transitioning to solar energy.

This collaboration aligns with the Biden Administration's recent launch of the 'Solar for All' program. Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, this initiative is backed by a $7 billion investment to help low-income and underserved communities access the benefits of residential solar energy. The program plans to partner with state, local, and tribal governments, as well as non-profits, to effectively deploy these funds.

Conclusion

The merger between Energy Allies and Solar United Neighbors marks a pivotal moment in the solar energy landscape. By combining their strengths, these organizations are poised to make solar energy more accessible and equitable for low- and moderate-income families across the nation. As they work together to empower communities and drive the clean energy transition, this partnership promises to bring about lasting change in how solar energy is distributed and utilized.