Community Solar: Shared Power for All

Community Solar enables individuals to harness solar energy, even if they don’t own a roof or live in a sunny location. Instead of installing panels at home, customers subscribe to a shared solar project and get credit on their utility bill for the power it produces. It’s a way to support clean energy, lower bills, and build local resilience, especially for renters, low-income households, and communities who’ve been left out of the renewable transition. Oregon’s Community Solar Program is designed to make that possible. REC is proud to advocate for a program that works for everyone, not just the big players.

 

REC’s Role in Community Solar

The Renewable Energy Coalition represents the voices of small and mid-sized renewable energy producers in Oregon’s Community Solar Program. We work to ensure fair policies, transparent oversight, and real opportunities for local developers, not just the utilities or major players. Through regular engagement in UM 1930 and UM 2322, and close collaboration with stakeholders, REC helps shape a program that remains rooted in community, equity, and access.

Why it Matters

Community solar matters because it gives people access to clean, local energy, especially those who can’t install rooftop panels. However, to truly be effective, the program must be fair, accessible, and open to more than just utility-driven projects. That’s why REC shows up: to protect small and mid-sized solar developers and operators from being pushed out by utilities and to ensure the playing field stays level. When independent producers have a fair shot, communities win.

UM 1930: Community Solar Implementation

UM 1930 is where Oregon’s Community Solar Program gets tracked and shaped. It’s a public space where utilities, program administrators, community groups, developers, and everyday Oregonians come together to submit updates, share feedback, and guide the growth of community solar across the state. The Oregon Public Utility Commission runs the docket, and groups like the Renewable Energy Coalition show up to advocate for fair policies and ensure that small renewable energy producers have a seat at the table.