Through the Oregon Community Solar Program*, communities can create new projects that allow more Oregonians to choose solar—no roof required. Energy Trust of Oregon shares that commitment to helping more people benefit from renewable energy, so we offer resources to support the development of these solar projects:
A community solar project can be developed by anyone, including local nonprofits, businesses, schools, churches, tribal entities and other organizations. The projects can be located on buildings or free-standing in undeveloped areas. Customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power can subscribe to a portion of a community solar project and get credits on their energy bills. This means more Oregonians can share in solar benefits, even if they rent, live in a condo, lack a sunny roof or don’t have the budget to install solar panels now. Community solar also means more local solar development and clean energy jobs here in Oregon.
Learn more about community solar >Because few people have developed community solar projects before, Energy Trust offers an incentive to help local organizations navigate the financial and technical challenges of a typical community solar project.
Public, nonprofit, or private organizations interested in developing community solar projects that range in size from 25 kW-AC to 3 MW that intend to meet carve-out requirements for the Oregon Community Solar Program are eligible for this incentive. Projects must have specific goals to significantly serve customers with low incomes and others who have had less access to solar generation and incentive opportunities.
Eligibility criteria, requirements, incentive details and process for applying are described on the application forms:
Energy Trust has teamed up with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation to offer coaching and technical assistance for qualified organizations interested in developing community solar projects. This service is intended to support community-based efforts led by organizations new to solar project development.
Nonprofits, community-based organizations, tribes, renewable energy cooperatives and public agencies are eligible to apply.
If your organization qualifies, you will be paired with a coach that provides limited direct advisory support and technical assistance. Support will vary based on the needs of the project, but could include general education and planning, partnering support, site selection review, understanding project finances, development outreach plans, or general troubleshooting and consultation.
If you are interested in applying for coaching assistance, please contact Cassandra Martin at cmartin@b-e-f.org or 503.553.3956.
If your community-based organization wants to know more about developing a community solar project, this guide explains the process in detail.
View the Community Solar PlaybookWe’re here to help. Call us at 1.877.777.4018 or send us an email at solar@energytrust.org.
*The Oregon Community Solar Program is a state enabled initiative overseen by the Oregon Public Utility Commission. Participation in the Community Solar Program allows customers to offset their energy usage with electricity generated from a certified community solar project.