BOSTON (April 22, 2024) - The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant investment in solar energy, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency revealing that the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will receive nearly $62.5 million through the Solar for All grant competition.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan expressed the administration's commitment, stating, "Today we're delivering on President Biden's promise that no community is left behind by investing $7 billion in solar energy projects for over 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities."
The initiative, known as Project SunBridge, aims to bring solar energy to low-income and disadvantaged communities across Connecticut, with a focus on affordable housing units. Connecticut residents will benefit from financial assistance, increased incentives, and technical support for clean energy workforce development.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes commended President Biden's program design, saying, "I applaud President Biden for designing a program that delivers the affordability and resiliency advantages of solar energy to homes and communities that deserve further investment."
Inclusive Prosperity Capital, Inc., based in Connecticut, was also selected to receive a substantial grant to deploy residential solar in multiple states. CEO Kerry O'Neill expressed excitement about leading the Community Power Coalition, stating, "We are thrilled to be chosen for the EPA's Solar For All program and to lead the Community Power Coalition."
The Solar for All program, part of the historic $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, aims to reduce carbon emissions, create jobs, and lower energy costs for families. It aligns with President Biden's commitment to achieving a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
The selected applicants under the Solar for All program are dedicated to reducing climate and air pollution, benefiting low-income communities, and mobilizing financing to expand solar energy deployment. The initiative is set to bring significant benefits to communities nationwide, promoting clean energy, environmental justice, and economic opportunity.
The awards to the selected applicants are expected to be finalized in the summer of 2024, with projects set to commence in the fall and winter of the same year. EPA will host informational webinars to ensure public transparency and engagement with the Solar for All program.
