What is Solar Equity?
Solar equity ensures that low-income and people of color residents and businesses have access to
solar energy.

Many Austinites lack access to solar energy because they cannot afford the steep upfront costs.
The vast majority of community solar subscribers to date, however, have been businesses,
universities, government agencies, and higher-earning households — all of which can generally
pay the steep project enrollment fees or meet financial requirements. Meanwhile, those who
could benefit the most from access to renewable energy and lower utility bills — low-income
and people of color residents — have largely been left out of solar energy. The City of Austin
needs solar policies to overcome the financial and technical hurdles that prevent more inclusive
participation.

Switching to solar has the potential to remediate the most hazardous and harmful impacts of
climate, while also creating opportunities for economic empowerment in the communities who
are most impacted by climate change.

Join the Solar Equity Campaign and demand Solar Equity:
· Create Pilot Programs
· Award grants for community solar projects
· Develop financial incentives
· Eliminate income &; credit score checks for low-income customers
· Offer short-term contracts for renters
· Waive low-income upfront costs
· Limit monthly fees