Community Solar Gains Steam with New Site in Portland

A new community solar project is stepping up to bring fantastic discounts—up to 40%—on electricity bills for some low-income households in Northeast Portland.

The benefits of owning a residential solar system is attractive, but oftentimes isn't practical or possible. Installation costs can be quite high, often requiring homeowners to spend tens of thousands of dollars. And even if cost isn't an issue, not every home had a roof suited for solar panels.

The PDX Community Solar project is here to change the game. Evan Ramsey, the director of renewables for the Bonneville Environmental Foundation, shared how this initiative makes solar energy more attainable:

“Traditionally, if someone wanted to harness solar power, they’d need to invest $20,000 to $40,000 to install panels on their home. With community solar, people can subscribe to a project without the hefty upfront costs," said Ramsey.

PDX Community Solar boasts an impressive 2,200 solar panels, located close to the Portland International Airport. Ramsey highlights how such projects are breaking down barriers to renewable energy: “This project will serve 150 households in the nearby Cully neighborhood. We’re dedicated to making renewable energy accessible for disadvantaged communities.”

This $4 million project is not only the newest but also the largest community solar project in Portland! Funded mainly through the Portland Clean Energy Fund—a 1% tax on large businesses that was approved by voters in 2018—this initiative is setting a shining example of community collaboration.

Though the energy produced won't flow directly into homes, it will contribute to the grid, generating credits that will lighten the electricity bills for 150 Cully residents. Betsy Kauffman from Energy Trust of Oregon explained the concept beautifully:

“It’s like a community garden! If you don’t have a backyard, you can still enjoy the fruits of someone else’s garden. Community solar allows those without suitable roofs to benefit from solar energy.”

And the savings are significant! The financial perks translate to annual savings of $350 to $400 for low-income families. That kind of relief can truly transform lives. Sentilla Hawley, communications coordinator for the environmental justice nonprofit Verde, emphasized how impactful these savings can be for families in Cully, one of Portland's most diverse neighborhoods.

Some community members were initially skeptical—thinking such savings couldn’t be real. But thanks to years of trust-building efforts, Verde has been able to reassure residents: “Meeting face-to-face has been crucial. We want everyone to know, ‘This is real, it’s amazing, and it can happen for you!’”

Beyond just saving money and promoting clean energy, the PDX Community Solar site is also becoming a training ground for green jobs through partnerships with local nonprofits like Leaders Become Legends.

“It’s heartwarming to see workers excited about contributing to a project that has such a meaningful impact on their community,” Ramsey shared enthusiastically.

While PDX Community Solar stands as a beacon of hope in Portland, it’s part of a broader movement. Since the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 1547 in 2016, 25 community solar projects have already been established, benefiting around 4,000 residents. There’s so much potential ahead, but tapping into that potential hinges on getting the right support from lawmakers.

“The growth of community solar really depends on policy decisions. Some states still don’t have community solar laws, and it’s vital for utilities to embrace these initiatives,” said Ramsey.

Together, we can drive positive change, making clean energy more accessible and empowering communities across the country!

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