The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched the Solar Ready Communities (SRC) program. This program is a competitive grant initiative worth $7 billion. Its main goal is to promote the use of solar energy among low-income households. Grants under this program are available to community groups across the United States. The grants will assist in creating and implementing solar programs specifically targeted at low-income communities.
Under the SRC program, approximately 60 awards will be granted, with individual awards ranging from $25 million to $400 million. These grants will be utilized to offer financial assistance and technical support to low-income households, including workforce development and energy-efficiency upgrades. Moreover, the program guarantees a minimum of 20% reduction in total electricity bills for participating households.
The Biden administration is actively promoting renewable energy expansion nationwide, with a specific target of installing 30 gigawatts of solar power by 2025. The SRC program is expected to play a significant role in achieving this goal.
Applications for the SRC program are open to community groups representing specific states, Native Americans and Alaska Natives, as well as multi-state programs. The deadline for submitting applications is September 26, 2023.
