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Solstice, a community solar company dedicated to making clean energy accessible to all households and businesses, is introducing an innovative renewable energy credit (REC) program aimed at driving investment in underserved communities. This initiative, known as the Community Benefit REC program, is launching as a pilot in 2024, with Microsoft as one of the first corporate participants. By purchasing RECs through this program, businesses can directly support projects that expand community solar access, install solar panels for nonprofits, develop solar workforce training programs for under-resourced populations, and provide financial relief to households struggling with high utility costs. The Community Benefit REC program is designed to allocate funds based on the specific clean energy needs of each community. Solstice is working closely with local nonprofits and community organizations to identify areas where funding can have the greatest impact. Unlike traditional philanthropic efforts, which often prioritize nonprofits, this program also directs resources toward community solar co-ops that typically lack access to conventional funding sources. These contributions are essential for their growth, ensuring that more communities can benefit from locally generated, affordable renewable energy. Every dollar invested through this initiative strengthens community infrastructure and promotes local economic development, making clean energy more inclusive and widely available. One of the program’s early beneficiaries is Boston Medical Center (BMC), which will use the funding to expand its onsite solar installations. These additional solar panels will support BMC’s Clean Power Prescription Program, an initiative that helps reduce utility bills for eligible patients through the use of renewable energy. By installing solar panels on the rooftop of one of its administrative buildings, BMC is enhancing both the physical and financial well-being of its patients while contributing to a cleaner energy future. Sandhya Murali, CEO at Solstice, said “We’re thrilled to launch this REC product that enables true community benefits. We’re helping under-resourced communities take control of their future through clean energy.” Anna Goldman, MD, MPH, MPA, Medical Director of Climate and Sustainability at Boston Medical Center, mentioned “With Clean Power Prescription, Boston Medical Center aims to directly alleviate energy-related financial burdens by harnessing cleaner solar energy. This work is made possible by the generosity of corporations and organizations like Solstice and Microsoft. At BMC, we understand that achieving good health requires much more than traditional medicine. For more than two decades, BMC has been a leader in addressing not just medical but also social and environmental factors that impact the health of our patients.” Another recipient of the program is the Boston Community Solar Cooperative (BCSC), which is using the funding to advance its first community-owned solar array on the rooftop of the Dorchester Food Co-op. This project represents a significant step toward making solar energy more accessible to historically underserved neighborhoods, allowing residents to benefit from both environmental and economic advantages. Additionally, Community Work Services (CWS) is leveraging the program’s support to expand its Clean Energy job training initiative, which creates workforce development opportunities in the renewable energy sector. This program is particularly focused on helping individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, including returning citizens, gain the skills needed for careers in the clean energy industry. These organizations are just a few of the many beneficiaries of the Community Benefit REC program, each playing a crucial role in bringing sustainable energy solutions to their communities. By participating in this initiative, businesses can make a tangible difference in the transition to clean energy while ensuring that its benefits reach those who need them most. To learn more about how Community Benefit RECs can support local renewable energy projects and maximize corporate sustainability investments, interested businesses are encouraged to contact Solstice today. |
