Project Name: Training for State Officials to Make Solar More Inclusive, Affordable, and Consumer Friendly
Funding Opportunity: Solar Training and Education for Professionals (STEP)
SunShot Subprogram: Soft Costs
Location: Montpelier, VT
SunShot Award Amount: $568,000
Awardee Cost Share: $64,846
The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) provides resources and training for public officials, mostly at the state level, on how to deal with two issues that have important implications for the future cost and continued public acceptance of solar energy. The first issue is ensuring inclusive participation in the solar economy, especially for those with low and moderate incomes and those without solar-friendly roofs. The second issue is helping consumers find and use reputable, competent vendors and contractors.
The STEP funding program was announced in May 2016. Read the announcement.
Approach
Through education and technical assistance, the project helps states and municipalities improve consumer information, implement consumer protection measures, and add or upgrade programs and policies that reduce solar financing and acquisition costs. This ensures solar markets remain inclusive and accessible.
Innovation
CESA will develop and disseminate educational materials, host workshops, and offer an online course designed to assist state policymakers and program administrators improve consumer protection. By training public officials, implementing new measures, and strengthening programs and policies that improve solar’s accessibility among all income groups, this project will complement SunShot’s goals.