Case Study: Advancing Solar Energy Equity

Rooftop solar panels can substantially reduce homeowners’ energy bills, but few low-income families can afford the cost of buying and installing a solar energy system. The City of San Diego’s renewed energy franchise agreement with San Diego Gas & Electric® called for creating an incentive program for low-income residents of neighborhoods most vulnerable to climate change impacts.

CSE designed and administers the 10-year, $10 million San Diego Solar Equity Program, which provides solar energy systems at little to no cost to homeowners, reducing demand on the grid and greenhouse gas emissions.