Harris County has launched the Affordable Community Energy Program (ACE), aiming to provide clean energy solutions for low-income residents. The groundbreaking ceremony for the first of seven community solar sites took place on September 30, 2023, at the Reliant Center.
Key Highlights:
- Investment: An $88.3 million initiative to address rising energy costs and increase grid resilience.
- Energy Generation: The program will produce up to 45 megawatts of solar energy and include 20 megawatt-hours of battery storage.
- Savings: Targeting 9,500 to 10,000 households, ACE aims to cut energy bills by about 20%, potentially saving families around $930 annually.
Accessibility:
- Residents will benefit from energy credits on their electricity bills without needing solar panels installed on their properties.
- Enrollment for both renters and homeowners is set to begin in 2027.
The initiative comes following a recent court decision regarding federal funding for solar projects, reaffirming the county’s commitment to accessing those resources. Completion of the project is scheduled for 2029.
