The First Open Community Solar Project Comes to NH
Despite the benefits of community solar projects, they are not always easy to establish or join. In some places, there are legislative barriers to establishing a community solar project because renewable energy companies have to acquire the necessary permits, and legislators and government officials are not always willing to grant them. For example, getting permission to use a particular plot of land for a community solar project can be a challenge. However, challenges are meant to be overcome, which is exactly what happened in the NH town of Jaffrey, where the first open community solar project in NH will come online in 2025.
Our team at Renewables Worldwide is always eager to see more opportunities for renewable energy. Here’s what’s exciting about this new community solar project in Jaffrey, NH.
Previous Community Solar Projects
This community solar project in Jaffrey is the first publicly available project in NH but not the first overall in the state. The state of NH authorized community solar development in 2013. However, only small projects for select groups have been established so far. The reason larger projects have not been built is not due to authorizations and permits but the state’s energy policies and lack of incentives compared to other New England states. Because the administrative costs of open community solar projects are higher than those of smaller ones, alternative energy companies often decide that it is not worth the cost to set one up. NH’s net metering rules do not guarantee a high return on investment, and the variable cost of electricity complicates matters further.
Removing Barriers in NH
This new community solar project, which will begin in 2025, has been years in the making. In 2019, the state passed legislation that streamlined the billing process for community solar customers. With fewer administrative hoops to jump through, solar energy companies could move forward with community solar projects on a larger scale. Although one barrier has been removed, other obstacles still remain. However, proponents of solar and other renewable energy sources are confident legislators are willing to continue making alternative energy viable in NH.
Renewables Worldwide | Community Solar in NH, MA, & NY
Our team at Renewables Worldwide is committed to connecting customers with community solar projects. Contact us today to find one in your area or learn more about our services.
