Dive Brief:
- Xcel Energy in Minnesota has begun taking applications from community solar projects as part of its "Solar Rewards Community" program allowing customers who cannot install rooftop panels to take part in solar generation, Midwest Energy News reports.
- Xcel said developer interest in the program has been high, and the utility expects the first solar gardens to be operating by mid-2015.
- There are about 14 MW of solar generation currently on Xcel's Minnesota system, but the utility expects the new program to expand that amount significantly.
Dive Insight:
Xcel's Solar Rewards Community program in Minnesota is aimed at boosting green power by allowing customers to subscribe to solar panel arrays constructed by third-party developers at centralized locations, called "solar gardens." Customers will receive credits on their electricity bills for their portion of energy produced.
The program "will make solar power available to a broad group of customers who did not have access to this popular clean energy source previously,” said Chris Clark, Xcel Energy regional vice president of rates and regulatory affairs.
Xcel said the SRC program is designed for customers who cannot take advantage of other solar programs because they rent, live in multi-family dwellings, or for other reasons.
“Solar Rewards Community offers a new approach to renewable energy in Minnesota,” Clark said. “Larger solar developments — as compared to putting solar panels on individual roof-tops — usually cost less to install, which can make solar power more affordable and convenient. This program will help the Minnesota solar industry grow in size and vitality.”
Midwest Energy News reports that Minnesota regulators will begin debating solar tariffs in February, but for now Xcel will pay an "applicable retail rate" for the power.
