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Big Sun Community Solar

Big Sun Community Solar Program big-sun-solar-with-cps-energy

San AntonioTX

Attributes

  • State Texas
  • Utility type Municipally-owned utility
  • Regulatory Structure Regulated
  • Community Solar Bill Credit Value Value of Solar
  • Community Solar Enabling Legislation No
  • Value of State Level RECs & Subsidies Low = less than 10% of value stack
  • Eligible for Tax Benefits Yes
  • Installation type Canopy
  • Year energized 2019
  • Project capacity 5,000 KW AC
  • LMI Share of Capacity 10%
  • LMI Requirement Carve-out
  • Energy Rate Average $0.12
  • LMI Customer Savings 20%
  • Minimum LMI Savings Mandated No
  • Potential # LMI Subscribers 40

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Related Best Practices

  • Investment Tax Credit

    The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal tax incentive for business or residential investment in renewable energy generation systems that can be applied to solar installations. The ITC lets individuals or businesses deduct a certain percentage of their installation costs from any tax liability they have. This credit is in addition to normal allowances for asset depreciation. It only works if the entity that makes the investment is a taxable entity and has sufficient tax liability. As of the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in August 2022, the ITC provides a credit valued at 30% of the cost of installation. It is set to reduce in value after 2032. The basis for the 30% now includes not just the installation and equipment associated with a solar array, but can include interconnection costs, as well as battery storage costs and more. If you are developing a community solar project and are not familiar with the ITC rules and process, consult a tax attorney.

  • No-cost Site Lease

    In some instances, project developers can negotiate a no-cost site lease. This is common when state or local governments or institutions sponsor a community solar program. These entities may have rooftop space or vacant parcels suitable for solar installation. While no-cost land leases do not lower upfront investment costs, they can lower ongoing operating costs.

  • Philanthropic and Corporate Grants

    Private foundations or corporations provide grants for renewable energy development. Grants may be offered geographically or to specific segments of the population, especially low- and moderate-income, BIPOC, and environmental justice communities. Many foundations are focused on climate and equity, providing significant opportunities to fund community solar projects that serve these communities. Most foundations publish Requests for Proposals (RFPs) that announce project eligibility requirements, funding limits, as well as the requirements and timelines for submitting your proposal. 

    Grantsmanship: https://www.tgci.com/funding-sources