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:
What is community solar?
Community solar projects can be located on buildings—like businesses, government buildings, schools or churches—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.
If your organization is interested in creating a community solar project, you may qualify for Energy Trust resources to help you launch your project.
Learn more about community solar >Community Solar Development Assistance
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 or nonprofit organizations interested in developing community solar projects that range in size from 25 kW-AC to 3 MW are eligible for this incentive. Private developers working on small community solar projects—up to 360 kW-AC in size—are also eligible.
Eligibility criteria, requirements, incentive details and process for applying are described on the application forms:
Community Solar Coaching Assistance
Energy Trust has teamed up 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 cmthompson@b-e-f.org or 503.553.3956.
Questions? Contact Us.
We’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 administered by the State of Oregon. Participation in the Community Solar Program allows customers to offset their energy usage with electricity generated from a certified community solar project.