Community solar allows households to enroll in a local shared solar array and see savings on their electric bill, without any of the extra costs or installation problems introduced by putting it on a rooftop. Community solar is in theory a more accessible form of solar energy because it expands access to community members who rent, or do not own their roof. All community members can participate in a community solar garden through shared ownership or energy savings.

However, people of color and income-eligible households continue to be excluded from renewable energy projects, such as community solar, and energy efficiency programs. We believe project development needs to be grounded in communities, from the beginning, to revolutionize the energy system. With this in mind, we envision a model of community solar that centers climate-impacted communities and is entirely community-led. Through our work, Energy Allies and community partners build solar projects that prioritizes community voices and provide opportunities for residents to build wealth. Our projects offer income-eligible households the opportunity to benefit from community-owned, community-led clean energy. Every aspect of this project will be decided on by a Community Advisory Board made up of local leaders with Energy Allies acting as a technical advisor.