Thirteen organizations across Michigan and the country have partnered to found the Michigan Community Solar Alliance (MCSA), an organization committed to expanding accessibility and availability of solar energy in the state.
The alliance’s primary goal is to encourage passage of House Bills 4715 and 4716, legislation what would change Michigan law to allow subscription-based community solar projects. Because direct participation in these programs is currently prohibited under state law, solar energy access has been limited.
The 13 founding organizations include:
Associated Builders and Contractors Michigan
The Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America – Michigan Chapter
Coalition for Community Solar Access
Ecology Center
Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association
MI Air MI Health
Michigan Conservative Energy Forum
Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council
Michigan Energy Options
Michigan Environmental Council
Michigan League of Conservation Voters
Sierra Club Michigan
Vote Solar Action Fund
According to the Alliance, more than 50% of American households don’t have access to solar power because they rent, live in a multi-tenant building, have roofs unable to host a solar system, or live in a service territory of a utility that won’t allow it. Community solar offers a solution to these customers, and provides access to the economic and environmental benefits of solar generation.
The association also established partnerships with the Lansing Board of Water and Light, the City of East Lansing, the City of Lansing, and Michigan Energy Options.
