Local social enterprise among the first to offer solar in Maryland program just coming online
(Silver Spring, Md) – Neighborhood Sun today launched its first round of community solar projects, responding to customer demand for a new kind of solar energy that the business says will be available to everyone – not just the select few.
“We’re excited to bring the benefits of affordable solar power to our community,” said Gary Skulnik, Neighborhood Sun CEO and founder. “Community solar offers a concrete way to fight climate change and support locally produced clean energy.”
Community, or shared solar, allows electricity consumers to purchase solar from a local project, with no need to install equipment. Anyone who pays a utility bill can access locally produced, affordable clean energy – even if they can’t or don’t want to put solar panels on their roof. Some of Neighborhood Sun’s projects include a carveout for low-to-moderate income customers, who are often left behind when it comes to clean energy.
“We believe that climate change affects everyone, especially the most vulnerable, so everyone should be involved in the solution,” said Skulnik. “Now, finally, there’s a solar solution for everyone – including people on a budget. Community solar is priced lower than most other renewable energy options out there. It’s even lower than the current utility price.”
Maryland is poised to become one of the top states in the country for community solar, and Neighborhood Sun is leading the way as one of the first companies offering the product. Clean energy advocates hailed legislation to create the three-year community solar pilot program as ground-breaking when it was passed by the Maryland General Assembly in 2015. Last year, the Public Service Commission approved program rules and tariffs.
The company will be offering subscriptions to projects for customers in the BGE, Delmarva Power and Light, Pepco, and Potomac Edison/First Energy service territories.
Neighborhood Sun is a startup social enterprise, but the founder, Gary has been active in the Maryland clean energy space for decades. He co-authored the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard and co-founded Clean Currents, the first green energy company in Maryland, which helped thousands switch to clean energy.
About Neighborhood Sun: We’re your friendly clean energy social enterprise with a mission to empower neighborhoods to choose community solar. Community, or shared solar, allows electricity consumers to purchase solar from a local project, with no need to install any equipment. We are founded by the former leader of Clean Currents, the area’s first exclusively green energy company, which brought together thousands of people, businesses and organizations to switch to wind and solar power. Neighborhood Sun is the only community solar company that puts its members first above all other partners. By standing up for our members, we aim to be the most trusted, transparent solar brand in the market. For us, solar is about creating strong communities.
For more information: Gary Skulnik, CEO, [email protected], 202-413-8434
https://neighborhoodsun.ourpower.solar/join/, @neighborhoodsun, Facebook.com/neighborhoodsun
