CSE is the prime partner in administering California's Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program designed to benefit low-income and disadvantaged communities by incentivizing solar electric power and energy storage.
As the largest solar equity investment of its kind in the nation, SOMAH has the goal of assuring equal access to solar and storage and while reducing energy costs at participating properties, with most of the savings going to tenants. The California Public Utilities Commission oversees the $1 billion program, which is intended to incentivize 300 megawatts (MW) of solar by 2032.
The program's community-based approach ensures long-term, direct economic benefits for low-income households, helps catalyze the market for solar on general market multifamily housing, and includes job training leading to careers in the solar industry.
"I'm most excited about continuing the solar installations across our portfolio and showing our peers in affordable housing how it's easy to do—and that it makes a difference. I definitely recommend the program to every affordable housing provider. It delivers clean energy, not just for residents, but for the whole community.”
Laura Hall, CEO President of EAH Housing
Solar On Multifamily Affordable Housing Program Impacts
As of April 2026
CSE has administered more than $110 million in incentives paid to completed projects across California
Since 2019, the SOMAH Program is making great strides to reach program goals by 2032
The program has benefited over 65,600 tenant units, with more than 80% of solar produced going to tenants
Program at a Glance
Program Goals
Incentivize installation of 300 MW of solar generating and integrated storage on multifamily affordable housing statewide
Provide direct financial benefits to property owners and tenants via energy bill credits
Promote economic development in underserved communities
CSE's Role
Prime, SOMAH Program Administrator team
Technologies
Key Partners
Association for Energy Affordability
GRID Alternatives
California Housing Partnership
Asian Pacific Environmental Network
California Environmental Justice Alliance
Communities for a Better Environment
Community Environment Council
Environmental Health Coalition
OC Goes Solar
Self-Help Enterprises
The Niles Foundation
State Policies Supported
California Assembly Bill 693
State, regional and local climate action plans
Impact Statement
Low-income households are set to save more than $1 billion in energy costs over the lifetime of completed and ongoing SOMAH projects.
