Comparative Analysis of US Community Solar Initiatives: Recommendations for the City of Detroit

Abstract

Like many cities across the United States, Detroit, Michigan, is facing compounding challenges due to global climate change. Detroit is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and is already experiencing the effects, including flooding and rising temperatures. The City of Detroit Office of Sustainability seeks tools and strategies for the accelerated development of solar energy to meet greenhouse gas reduction goals set forth in the Detroit Climate Strategy and mitigate the effects of climate change for Detroit residents. This report informs and contributes to Detroit’s clean energy transition by highlighting existing community solar programs in Michigan, California, New York, and Illinois, and providing focused recommendations from these case studies that can be applied to the Detroit context. Additionally, local community stakeholder perspectives are shared to inform on an equitable and just energy transition. Through extensive online research, interviews, and stakeholder engagement, we compiled case studies and recommendations for the successful, expedient, and just implementation of solar energy in Detroit. Finally, we conducted a cost-benefit analysis of the Detroit Solar Neighborhood Initiative, a city-owned solar development project that is expected to generate 55 MW of renewable energy, to offset all 127 municipally owned buildings, and improve air quality and health outcomes for residents. This report finds that solar-specific policy initiatives, extensive community engagement paired with benefits, and a focus on energy affordability for low-income communities are key indicators for effective and equitable solar energy projects.