The Solar America Cities Partnership is managed by the U.S. Department of Energy. Currently it includes 25 cities that have all pledged to pursue a cleaner, safer, and more energy independent way of life. Part of this commitment includes making solar a more desirable and affordable option to residents. In order to achieve this, the DOE has allocated special funds up to $2.4 million to help encourage more solar energy and green development while removing any barriers that stand in the way.

So how can your city qualify for this special partnership program? They must be able to demonstrate their commitment to accomplishing the goals set by the DOE. This includes presenting a comprehensive plan that details how they will overcome barriers, how they will develop the supporting infrastructure, and how they will aggressively promote green living and alternative energy within their communities. The cities already participating in this program are:

• Ann Harbor, MI
• Austin, TX
• Boston, MA
• Madison, WI
• New Orleans, LA
• New York City, NY
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Portland, OR
• Salt Lake City, UT
• Tucson, AZ
• Berkeley, CA
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Denver, CO
• Houston, TX
• Knoxville, TN
• Milwaukee, WI
• Minneapolis – St. Paul, MN
• Orlando, FL
• Philadelphia, PA
• Sacramento, CA
• San Antonio, TX
• San Jose, CA
• Santa Rosa, CA
• Seattle, WA

It is quite advantageous to be apart of this program. Participates not only receive $200,000 this year alone to fund solar advancement; but the DOE also provides much assistance to these cites in setting up their programs, working through zoning and building codes, and developing financing and incentive programs. In addition to the $200,000 funding assistance, the DOE is also allocating $3 million towards technical assistance for the Solar America Cities.

Although there are over 800 cities actively pursing alternative energy programs and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, only a select few have yet been chosen for this program. “This award is a great honor for Denver.” Mayor Hickenlooper said in response to being selected for the program. “It affirms all that our City team and our community have accomplished under our Greenprint Denver action agenda, and it provides funding for us to accomplish even more.” Environment News Service.

Hopefully, this partnership program will inspire more cities to aspire to reach this level of achievement in the advancement of solar programs. In light of the current energy problems, our political leaders are forced to pay more attention to alternative energy issues. This should translate into more funds, which should allow for more cities to participate in the future. Do what you can within your city. Attend city council meetings; talk with your local elected officials, and work to bring more awareness to the issue. With more financial incentives, more consumers will gladly participate in solar energy. If nothing else, at least look into solar energy for your home. Request free estimates from prescreened solar contractors in your area.

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Posted on August 8th in Solar Information, Solar News by Anna.