Delaware Announces New Solar Pilot Designed to Serve Low- to Moderate-Income Households

Source: Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) recently launched a pilot program to help low- to moderate-income (LMI) residents reap the benefits of solar energy. The Low-to Moderate-Income Solar Pilot Program builds on DNREC's existing Green Energy Program and will help LMI households overcome cost barriers that have often limited solar access to wealthier communities. The Low- to Moderate-Income Solar Pilot Program offers low-income households free solar installations up to 4 kW (as well as free weatherization improvements) through DNREC's Weatherization Assistance Program. For moderate-income households, the program covers 70% of installation costs for solar arrays up to 6 kW in size. To participate, moderate-income households select from a list of qualified contractors on DNREC's website, who will then apply through the Green Energy Program. DNREC plans to run the pilot program for two years and use the lessons learned to inform the design of a future statewide LMI solar program. By significantly lowering the installation cost for moderate-income households and eliminating the cost barrier for low-income households, DNREC will help expand the reach of its solar program and support a more inclusive clean energy economy.