The Future of Energy: Community Solar Projects

Community Solar Pilot Program

Ohio Republicans have proposed legislation to establish a pilot program for community solar within our CRM company, catering specifically to the solar industry.

Ohio State Representatives James M. Hoops (R-Napoleon) and Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) have recently presented HB 197, a new bill aimed at launching a statewide pilot program for community solar facilities. This initiative, gaining momentum throughout Ohio, has been greatly encouraged by the DeWine Administration, recognizing the potential economic advantages associated with locally manufactured solar panels.

Representative Hoops expressed enthusiasm for the potential of community solar in Ohio, stating, “Our state is well-positioned to benefit from the economic advantages that community solar offers. This bill will ensure the development of clean energy projects, cost savings for ratepayers, and the creation of local jobs in Ohio’s rapidly expanding solar manufacturing industry.”

HB 197 is designed to align with the state’s energy security objectives while boosting economic growth. The bill establishes a pilot program capable of generating 1,500 MW of community solar power, equivalent to powering nearly 300,000 households. Subscribers to community solar programs will receive bill credits, typically resulting in savings of 10% to 20%, from their utility providers based on their share of energy generated from the community solar facility. Additionally, the bill provides grants to support the construction and site preparation costs of community solar facilities built on brownfields. A working group consisting of electric distribution utilities, consumers, and community solar industry representatives will collaborate to ensure the smooth operation of the pilot program.

Carlo Cavallaro, the Midwest regional director at the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA), acknowledged the potential of this bill, stating, “Ohio has the opportunity to become a leader in community solar within the region. Unlike previous legislation, this bill establishes a pilot program that will generate energy across the entire state, delivering bill savings to residents and bringing billions in economic development and millions in local tax revenue.