Connecticut's Shared Solar Push Targets Sky-High Energy Bills

Connecticut residents face electricity bills averaging 28 cents per kilowatt-hour, among the highest in the U.S., fueling calls for shared solar expansion. These projects let customers subscribe to off-site solar arrays, crediting cheap renewable power directly to bills. A 2017 Vote Solar report projects a 200-megawatt program could create 2,580 construction jobs, $192 million in worker earnings and $374 million in economic benefits, plus $81 million in local taxes.

The state's shared solar pilot launched in January 2020 after 2019 tweaks, targeting renters, low-income households and shaded properties ineligible for rooftop panels. Businesses, municipalities and state agencies qualify too. Bloomfield's array powers town taxpayers, Stratford public housing and Eversource customers statewide, likened to a 'community garden for energy.' Massachusetts' program since 2014 powers 50,000 homes yearly, showing New England's success model.

Recent wins include three solar projects powering 12,000 homes, saving ratepayers $80 million over 20 years toward the 2040 zero-carbon grid mandate. Lawmakers approved 150 more megawatts of shared clean energy last session from solar, wind, hydro and fuel cells. The Connecticut Green Bank boosted adoption in communities of color, bucking national disparities as of 2019.

This 2026 legislative session, advocates like Save the Sound and Acadia Center urge a strong solar bill for plug-in options, battery storage pilots and broader access. 'Shared solar brings energy fairness,' they argue, countering affordability crises amid rising costs.