North Austin News

Austin Energy is preparing to introduce a new initiative in December aimed at enhancing the city's clean energy landscape. The utility will launch its Solar Standard Offer program, designed to increase Austin's renewable energy capacity and provide opportunities for local businesses. With ample rooftop space and abundant sunshine, Austin Energy plans to add significant amounts of rooftop solar power to the grid.

The Solar Standard Offer program allows commercial property owners to host solar panels on their rooftops or lease their roof space to third-party solar developers. The generated energy will be sold to Austin Energy, contributing directly to the city's renewable energy supply and supporting thousands of local homes, including those of low-income residents through the Community Solar Program.

Businesses leasing out their rooftop or parking lot space incur no upfront costs, enabling them to generate passive income while aiding Austin's sustainability objectives. "The Solar Standard Offer is a game-changer," stated Tim Harvey, Austin Energy Solar Program Manager. "This program empowers property owners, solar developers and the Austin community to work together toward a carbon-free future. It’s a major opportunity to meet our climate goals and create long-term value for everyone involved."

Austin Energy will compensate system owners based on the energy their solar panels produce. Rates are set at $0.1124 per kWh for systems under 1 MW and $0.0841 per kWh for larger systems, reflecting cost-saving benefits by contracting with local solar providers. Rate adjustments every three years will ensure fair compensation.

The program begins in early December with training sessions for solar contractors, followed by the official application launch on December 9th. These sessions aim to equip local contractors for increased demand in solar installations.

Further details on applying or participating as a contractor, system owner, or host can be found on Austin Energy's website.