COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) have jointly announced a groundbreaking initiative to expand the use of renewable solar energy in traditionally underserved communities across Ohio. The program, funded by a $156 million investment, aims to lower electricity bills for low- to moderate-income households while improving air quality and creating jobs.
Key Points:
- Program Details: The OAQDA and Ohio EPA will administer the $156 million program, which focuses on residential and community solar energy projects in disadvantaged areas of Ohio.
- Grants and Financing: The program will provide grants and low-cost financing to support solar energy installations. By doing so, it aims to maximize the number of underserved households benefiting from solar energy generation.
- Cost Savings and Air Quality: Lower electricity bills will directly impact families, while decreased greenhouse gas emissions will contribute to improved air quality.
- Economic Impact: The initiative is expected to create jobs across Ohio, as the workforce needed to deploy solar energy systems will be expanded.
- OAQDA’s Role: OAQDA, a non-regulatory state agency, has a long history of promoting a strong economy alongside a healthy environment. The program aligns with their mission to improve air quality and enhance public health.
- Ohio EPA’s Support: Ohio EPA Director Anne Vogel expressed enthusiasm for supporting projects that directly impact the state’s economy, environment, and public health.
The program is funded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s federal Solar for All program, which recently announced funding for 60 solar energy programs nationwide. Ohio’s project was selected through a competitive process, and distribution of the $156 million award will begin later this year.
For more information, visit the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority’s website at Ohioairquality.org.