Austin Energy Launches Solar Leasing Program to Boost Renewable Energy

With the start of the Solar Standard Offer program, Austin Energy is allowing owners of commercial properties to lease underutilized locations, such as parking lots and rooftops, for the purpose of installing solar panels. The panels will be installed by third-party developers, and the energy that is generated will be sold back to Austin Energy, which will result in an increase in the amount of renewable energy that is available in the city.

"This program eliminates financial barriers for property owners and enables them to get paid for hosting solar systems," said Kaiba White, a climate policy specialist at Public Citizen. "This program also allows property owners to remove financial barriers."

This effort provides assistance for Austin's Community Solar Program, which was established in 2018 and uses electricity from three different locations at the present time. Tim Harvey, who is in charge of the solar program at Austin Energy, underscored the possibility for collaboration by saying, "This program empowers property owners, developers, and the community to work toward a carbon-free future, meeting climate goals while creating long-term value."

The submission of applications will begin in December, and any customer on Austin's distribution grid who has space available will be eligible to get involved.

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