Community Solar Expansion Program

About Us

Purpose

The Washington State Community Solar Expansion Program is an incentive program that aims to expand access to the benefits of renewable energy for Washington’s low-income community members. We seek to incentive projects that will continuously deliver and reduce the energy burden for low-income beneficiaries. Through strategic incentives and community-driven partnerships, the program supports the development of solar projects that promote energy equity, reduce utility costs, and build a sustainable future for all Washingtonians.

History

In 2017, the Washington State University Extension Energy Program was directed to launch and administer the Renewable Energy Production Incentive Program. The program, now closed, offered certification to a person who owned a renewable energy system to receive annual production incentive payments. Although this incentive program increased energy independence from fossil fuels and provided economic benefits, there were no opportunities for low-income participation. Therefore, the Washington Legislature sought to create opportunities for broader participation, especially by low-income households and low-income service providers.

In 2022, the Washington State Legislature passed 2SHB 1814 to expand equitable access of renewable energy benefits through community solar projects. The successful legislation directs the Washington State University (WSU) Energy Program to implement and administer a community solar incentive program providing $100 million in payments – over 10 years – for the development of projects benefiting low-income individuals, low-income service providers, and qualifying tribal or public agencies.

In the first year of the Community Solar Expansion Program, the WSU Energy Program may authorize a maximum of $300,000 in incentive payments. Each biennium thereafter, an amount not to exceed $25 million may be paid out by utilities until the authorized funding is exhausted, or by June 30, 2036. Utilities are authorized to claim a credit against their public tax obligation equal to the incentives paid out.

Summary document: https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bill%20Reports/House/1814-S2%20HBR%20FBR%2022.pdf?q=20220701104335