Overview
California stands out as a leader in the United States in regards to climate legislation and the rollout of environmental initiatives. With some of the most aggressive climate goals in the nation, California is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. While the state has seen tremendous progress, many residential and commercial utility customers in California lack access to solar energy due to upfront costs, renting a building they do not own, and other barriers.
“ The launch of the Sheep Creek Community Solar Project is a momentous occasion to celebrate. Southern CA Edison is the first amongst the three Investor-Owned-Utilities to bring an Enhanced Community Renewables project online. –Catalyze has done what no other solar company has done before in California– and we thank you for partnering with us to make it happen!
Challenge
The Enhanced Community Renewables (ECR) program in California aims to expand access to renewable energy for communities facing barriers to participation in traditional renewable energy programs. Through this initiative, residents, small businesses, and disadvantaged communities can subscribe to local renewable energy projects like community solar and receive credits on their utility bills for the energy produced. The program prioritizes projects located in areas with high unemployment rates or pollution burdens, aiming to bring economic and environmental benefits to underserved communities.
Solution
Catalyze launched the Sheep Creek Community Solar Farm with Ampion, a leading community solar subscription and revenue management company, in August of 2023. It is the first of its kind under California’s ECR program contracted by one of the state’s three investor-owned utilities, Southern California Edison (SCE). The 3.8 MWdc project is helping expand access to solar energy for customers who do not own their property, cannot pay the upfront cost of solar installation, or have a roof that is in poor condition or shaded. With 231 subscribers and counting, the Sheep Creek Community Solar Farm supports SCE’s efforts to comply with California’s Green Tariff Shared Renewables program, allowing 100% solar energy options for their customers.
