Bridging the Energy Gap: Investigating the Distribution of Community Solar Projects in the United States

Presenter: Theresa Karimundackal

Faculty Sponsor: Christine Crago

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Energy & Fuels

Session: Poster Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM, Auditorium, A80

ABSTRACT

Community solar projects offer a pathway to equitably expand renewable energy access for climate-vulnerable and underserved communities. However, the current distribution of these projects across the United States remains unclear. This study uses publicly available data to examine the relationship between the presence of community solar projects and various socioeconomic, environmental, and policy-related factors. A linear regression analysis is conducted to assess how county-level community solar capacity correlates with climate vulnerability, disadvantaged community designations, state-level policies, county demographics, and income and education levels. The findings will provide insight into whether community solar is effectively reaching underserved areas or if barriers to access still exist. By increasing awareness of the current state of community solar deployment, this research can help policymakers refine public initiatives and help utilities and solar developers with outreach programs and infrastructure planning. Additionally, this study’s findings empower local leaders and advocates with information to push for more inclusive renewable energy expansion, bringing us closer to true energy justice.











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