SJCE Expands Award-Winning Solar Access Program
Solar panels at West Tambo Clean Power II in Livingston, California.
At San José Clean Energy, we believe everyone deserves access to clean energy at a reasonable rate —that’s why we’re proud of customer programs like Solar Access, which helps make that vision a reality for our community.
Imagine waking up in your home, flipping on the lights, and knowing that all of the electricity powering your home is coming from the sun. Now, imagine getting all that power at a 20% discount! Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for about 800 San José residents, it’s a reality thanks to San José Clean Energy’s Solar Access Program.
Watch how clean energy reaches homes in San José.
Thanks to funding from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), San José families and individuals in the program receive clean solar energy without the upfront costs of installing panels. They enjoy lower electricity rates and improved air quality, which supports a healthier community. Community solar programs like Solar Access make clean energy accessible to more people, including renters and those who can’t install solar panels themselves. It’s a simple way for more neighbors to share in the benefits of local solar power.
Many residents of the Solar Access Program live in areas burdened by pollution and don’t have easy access to clean air, water, or energy. They may also be enrolled in programs like California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) or the Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA), which help lower-income residents with electric bill payments. By offering clean energy at a 20% discount, SJCE is making sure that everyone, not just those who can afford solar panels, can benefit from clean, green electricity.
The Solar Access Program was awarded the Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award from the Institute for Local Government for its collaborative and equitable climate resilience initiatives and received a commendation from the San José City Council.
Watch the video to hear from customers in the program: San José Clean Energy’s Solar Access Program
From left to right, Dan O’Connor, Phil Cornish, Zach Struyk, Lina Williams, and Oshi Jauco from San José Clean Energy in Livingston, CA.
The Solar Access Program is Expanding
Thanks to a new solar power plant in Merced County and funding from the CPUC, the program will soon serve over 1,000 customers — an increase of over 200 people. The new plant, called West Tambo Clean Power II, is an 8.5-acre solar park that uses tracking technology, meaning the solar panels move with the sun to capture the most energy possible throughout the day.
What does this mean?
- More clean power for more people
- Less pollution for everyone
- A brighter, more sustainable future
SJCE continues to lead the way in providing renewable energy options that benefit both people and the planet. By lowering energy costs and reducing pollution in underserved neighborhoods, SJCE is advancing its commitment to equity and a cleaner future for all.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re interested in learning more about clean energy and if you qualify for the Solar Access Program, visit SanJoseCleanEnergy.org/Solar-Access.
Discover other ways SJCE is helping the community, from electric bill savings to energy-efficient appliances, at SanJoseCleanEnergy.org
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