This blog was written by Alissa Schafer, former Solar Policy & Communications Manager at the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
Guest Blog | January 17, 2017 | Energy Policy, SolarThe U.S. Department of Energy has launched the Solar in Your Community Challenge to inspire hundreds of local teams across the country to participate in bringing solar programs and projects to their communities. It aims to expand the solar market to a diverse array of new consumers, including low- and moderate-income customers and nonprofit community-serving organizations. SACE is partnering with the Department of Energy by hosting several informational meetings in Tennessee and Florida. So far, meetings have been scheduled in Miami, Orlando and Memphis and are open to all groups or individuals interested in learning more about the Challenge.
Meeting participants will meet with a Department of Energy representative to learn more about this unique opportunity to win funding for solar energy programs and projects. At the meeting, the group will learn about the emerging National Community Solar Partnership and the Challenge rules, including prize structure, teams, and timeline. Attendees will also watch sample pitches, have an opportunity to brainstorm their own pitches, and connect with other potential teammates.
Competing teams will be eligible for cash prizes and technical assistance from the Department of Energy and other experts nationwide. As a result of the Challenge, teams across the country will build local capacity to address the legal, technical, financial, and administrative aspects of community solar programs and projects, and solar will become a dream realized for many more people.
SACE is excited to be a part of this initiative and welcomes involvement from SACE members! Learn more and RSVP here:
Miami – January 19, 12-1:30 PM ET