Community Shared Solar

I want to SEE this happen / Quiero ver que esto suceda*

Community solar

*Offer support or suggestions / Ofrecer apoyo o sugerencias

I want to MAKE this happen / Quiero que esto suceda***

Community solar

**Donate or volunteer / Donar o ser voluntario

---

The U.S. Department of Energy defines community solar as any solar project or purchasing program, within a geographic area, in which the benefits of a solar project flow to multiple customers such as individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and other groups. In most cases, customers are benefitting from energy generated by solar panels at an off-site array. This program would leverage philanthropic catalyst funding against other public, semi-public, and private funding to create economies of scale for groups of individuals to invest in solar. This would be a ‘first’ in Wyoming and will require a new state statute regarding the ability to sell power back to the grid. That will require nuanced partnership with Lower Valley Energy, but there are projects and funding models across the US that can be replicated. These types of projects are especially relevant for future workforce housing and other multi-family housing projects. These projects often need external funding to support equitable access because of their high capital cost and long term return on investment. 

Status

• Needs Funding

• Needs Supporters 

• Needs Participants

• Underway

Partners are currently evaluating financing models, (Co-op, Utility-Owned, Special Purpose Entity, Public). It will require significant community engagement to be successful, because of high land costs, low energy costs, and ownership models. 

Expected Impacts: While the energy LVE currently purchases from Bonneville Power Administration has a very low emissions factor, more local, clean energy sources will ensure green power in the community moving forward. Community Solar provides more equitable access to solar net-metered energy. Ensuring that this project works with key stakeholders to provide income-qualifed, reduced cost access is a priority. Within the parameters set by the regional power provider and Lower Valley Energy, systems of 1 MW are allowable. 

Synergy with other priorities:

• Jackson/Teton County Comprehensive Plan policy to pursue renewable energy

Potential Partners: 

• Lower Valley Energy

• Operation Round-up 

• Homeowners Associations

• Town of Jackson

• Teton County

• Jackson/Teton County Housing Department

• Jackson Hole Community Housing Trust 

• National Community Solar Partnership 

Potential Funders: 

• Business and Residential LVE Customers

• Town (Special Purpose Excise Tax) 

• Teton County (Energy Mitigation Program)

• Teton Conservation District

• Bonneville Energy Foundation

• Beneficial Electrification League

• National Community Solar Partnership

• Philanthropy