Solar Energy Access and Incentives
Issue: Ensuring a Sustainable Future
Target Level of Office: Local
Policy Origin: City of Berkeley Office of Energy and Sustainable Development, California
Link: www.YEONetwork.org/2013policy/?i=214
Summary Narrative of the Policy: Part of the Berkeley Department of Planning and Development,
the Office of Energy and Sustainable Development leads the city’s sustainability efforts through
the Climate Action Plan by helping Berkeley residents, businesses, and city government create
a healthy urban environment. The City of Berkeley offers free solar technical assistance through
the Smart Solar Program.
Relevant Talking Points & Important Information:
• Solar is the cleanest, most abundant renewable energy source available. With this
tremendous potential, it’s no surprise that solar is one of the fastest-growing sectors
of the American economy with more than 6,100 solar companies currently employing
American workers in every state.
• States across the country understand the promise of solar power, and California, Arizona,
Colorado, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Nevada are all leading the way in domestic
solar installations.
• While solar energy plays an important role in fighting climate change and over-dependence
on harmful fossil fuels, it’s important to note that solar projects should be developed
sustainably to avoid harming existing ecosystems.
• In 2008, the City of Berkeley launched the Berkeley Financing Initiative for Renewable
and Solar Technology (FIRST), a program to promote solar photovoltaic (PV) installations.
The now concluded pilot program provided residential property owners an opportunity
to borrow money from the City’s Sustainable Energy Financing District for the installation
of solar photovoltaic electric systems. The Berkeley FIRST program served as a model
for Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs across the country. Since the
completion of the Berkeley FIRST pilot, there have been many developments related to
PACE. Most importantly, the Federal Housing Finance Authority, Freddie Mac and Fannie
May have issued strict rulings against any residential PACE program that places a PACE
loan in a superior position to a mortgage. Unless and until these issues are resolved,
Berkeley will not be establishing an ongoing program. However, there are local and state
financial assistance programs for nonresidential (commercial) installations.
Policy
2014 Book
Local Level
39