Duke Energy Launches Community Solar Program In S.C.

Duke Energy Progress is introducing a new community solar program in South Carolina.

The Shared Solar Program is available to all qualified Duke Energy Progress residential and nonresidential customers, including those who hold tax-exempt status, those who live in multifamily housing or rented homes, and those who may not otherwise have access to solar energy.

Customers who subscribe to solar energy through the Shared Solar Program will receive a monthly bill credit for the value of the energy produced by their subscription. Duke Energy Progress serves electric customers in the northeastern part of the state, including Florence, Darlington and Sumter counties.

“This is a great program for any customers who don’t own their residence or are unable to put a solar facility on their property,” says Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe, state president for Duke Energy in South Carolina. “We estimate that residential customers will earn back their initial payment in credits from the solar array in three years. Customers are not only saving on their electric bill, they are directly supporting a renewable energy future in South Carolina for generations to come.”

The program will be powered by the Whitney M. Slater Shared Solar Facility, developed by Pine Gate Renewables and located in Dillon County near Lake View, S.C.

Participants in the program will pay a monthly subscription fee of $6.25/kW in addition to initial fees to join the program. These program costs are in addition to the customer’s regular energy bill, Duke Energy Progress notes.

The monthly fee funds the customer’s share of supporting the operation of the solar facility. By subscribing to the Shared Solar Program, the customer will receive a monthly credit from Duke Energy Progress equal to the amount of solar energy the customer’s share produced.

For qualified low-income customers, Duke Energy Progress will waive the application cost and initial fees. Customers should contact their local community action agency for assistance determining eligibility, the company says.

Space is limited, and program reservations will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. To participate in the program, customers must have an active Duke Energy Progress account. More information can be found here.