Delaware To Offer Free Solar Panels To Low-Income Households

As part of its push towards greener energy in its fight against the climate crisis, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has announced it will helping to cover the cost of solar panels installed on low- to moderate-income homes. 

Starting this month, the pilot program hopes to boost the adoption of residential solar photovoltaic systems by removing cost as a barrier to entry and making cleaner energy a more popular option within the state. 

Low-income households with a combined income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guideline can apply for installation services via DNREC’s Weatherization Assistance Program, after which, if eligible, will be entitled to a cost-free installation of solar panels up to 4.0 kW. 

For moderate-income families with slightly better means, while they will not be receiving installations at no cost, they’ll still be entitled to apply from approved solar contractors through the pilot program, of which 70% of the fees will be paid for. 

Hearteningly, as per Canary Media, the project will include even households whose credit scores aren’t high enough for them to receive typical loans, and those who don’t pay enough in taxes to qualify for the federal solar Investment Tax Credit. 

“DNREC’s Green Energy Program has helped thousands of Delawareans make the switch to solar power, but installation costs continue to be an obstacle for many low- and moderate-income households,” explained DNREC Secretary Shawn M Garvin.

“This pilot program removes that barrier and makes clean energy a viable option for more families.” 

[via Canary Media and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, cover image via Oliver Peters | Dreamstime.com]