The Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) recently released its sixth annual report on solar in the Southeast, and the findings are encouraging. The report highlights the progress made in the region towards adopting solar energy as a viable source of power.
According to the report, the Southeast region has seen a significant increase in solar capacity over the past year. In 2020, the region added 4,000 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity, bringing the total installed capacity to 16,000 MW. This represents a 33% increase from the previous year.
The report also notes that solar energy is becoming more affordable in the Southeast. The cost of solar panels has decreased by 90% over the past decade, making it more accessible to homeowners and businesses. Additionally, the cost of solar energy is now competitive with traditional sources of energy, such as coal and natural gas.
One of the key drivers of solar adoption in the Southeast is the increasing demand from large corporations. Many companies are committing to using renewable energy to power their operations, and solar is a popular choice due to its affordability and reliability. The report notes that 25% of all new solar capacity in the Southeast is being built to meet corporate demand.
Another factor contributing to the growth of solar in the Southeast is supportive policies at the state level. Several states in the region have implemented policies that encourage the development of renewable energy, such as net metering and renewable portfolio standards. These policies provide incentives for homeowners and businesses to invest in solar energy.
Despite the progress made in the Southeast, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. One of the biggest obstacles is the lack of access to solar for low-income households. The report notes that only 5% of all solar installations in the Southeast are located in low-income communities. This highlights the need for policies and programs that make solar energy more accessible to all residents, regardless of income level.
Overall, the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy’s sixth annual report on solar in the Southeast is a positive sign for the region. The growth of solar capacity and affordability, coupled with supportive policies and corporate demand, bodes well for the future of renewable energy in the Southeast. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that all residents have access to the benefits of solar energy.
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