2024 marked a significant milestone for community solar in the United States, with a record installation of 1.7 GW of new capacity, reflecting a 35% increase from the previous year and bringing the total to 8.6 GW. This growth has been attributed to smart policy frameworks, effective advocacy, and the inherent value of community solar as a distributed energy resource. Community solar offers clean and affordable energy to previously underserved groups, including renters and low-to-moderate income households. Strategic investments made by the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) in various states, alongside the establishment of sustainable regulatory policies, have paved the way for this impressive growth, particularly in leading states like New York, Maine, and Illinois.
Looking ahead, the community solar industry faces challenges, including interconnection issues and federal policy uncertainty, but the established foundation of proactive coalitions positions them well for continued success. The rising demand for energy, paired with the need for faster and localized deployment of renewable resources, underscores the importance of community solar and storage solutions. As the CCSA gears up for the 2025 Community Solar Innovation Summit, the industry is focused on expanding market access through campaigns in states like Pennsylvania and Missouri, advocating for regulatory reforms that could enhance market potential. The achievements of 2024 reaffirm community solar’s critical role in America’s clean energy strategy and its potential to meet growing energy demands sustainably and affordably.