Energy Conservation Works Awarded $200,000 Energizing Rural Communities Prize
October 21, 2024
JACKSON, Wyo. — Energy Conservation Works (ECW) has been awarded $200,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energizing Rural Communities Prize to accelerate the development of a one-megawatt community solar project in partnership with Lower Valley Energy.
This project will offer local residents access to affordable renewable energy, and this prize will significantly reduce the cost of participation for income-qualified LVE members.
“We’ve been working to bring equitable shared solar to our community since 2017, and this recognition from the Department of Energy is a testament to the strong partnership we’ve built,” says Zach Isler, Program Manager at ECW. “Their continued support helps break down the financial and logistical barriers that prevent many households from accessing renewable energy. This funding comes at a crucial time, allowing us to reduce costs further and ensure that even our most vulnerable residents can actively participate in the clean energy transition, fostering a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone.”
Community solar enables LVE members to benefit from solar energy without the upfront costs or need for roof space. Subscribers will receive a monthly bill credit for a portion of the solar energy produced, lowering their electricity bill.
This project reinvests local and federal tax dollars into the community and promotes long-term environmental sustainability. By generating electricity locally and incorporating battery storage, community solar helps reduce the need to purchase more expensive electricity to power our homes and businesses.
This prize is on top of $100,000 ECW received in 2023 through the first phase of DOE’s Energizing Rural Communities Prize. ECW will also dedicate Specific Purpose Excise Tax funds voters approved in 2022 to advance the community solar initiative.
The Inflation Reduction Act also offers a 30-40% refund on construction expenses, further lowering the price per watt and offering participants a quicker return on investment.
Join ECW’s contact list here to receive updates and detailed information about subscriptions as they become available.
About ECW
ECW is a nonprofit organization in Teton County, Wyoming, dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions and reducing the community’s environmental impact. ECW is a partnership between Lower Valley Energy, Teton County, Wyoming and the Town of Jackson to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption and conservation initiatives.
By spearheading projects like community solar arrays, energy audits and electrification programs, ECW empowers the Teton County community to embrace clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. ECW’s initiatives lower energy costs for residents and businesses and contribute to long-term environmental sustainability. ECW’s Community Solar Income-Qualified Program aim to make renewable energy more accessible to all, helping the region transition to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
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