Ampion renewable energy has more than 1,400 low-income residents enrolled in the Erie County Low-Income Renewable Energy Program (ECLIPSE) during the first six months of use. The community solar initiative supports residents of Erie County, New York.
A community rooftop solar panel in Harrison, New York.
Current participants are expected to save a total of $63,000 per year on electricity costs through discounted solar credits applied to their electricity bills. The program offers eligible residents savings of up to 10% on their electricity bills, with no upfront investments or installation requirements.
“ECLIPSE strives to reduce the energy burden for households in need of lighting while expanding access to renewable energy,” said Sarah Sanford, Senior Energy Development Specialist and ECLIPSE Coordinator. “Our early results show what is possible when local governments, community organizations and renewable energy providers work together. Ampion has been a key partner in helping us scale quickly and ensure community solar is accessible to the people who need it most.”
The program’s success is due to a grassroots outreach strategy developed by Erie County and Ampion. The campaign helps reduce residents’ energy costs through clear, direct involvement. The efforts include community events, direct mail, text messages to eligible households and in-person events to ensure the message reaches low-income residents in need. Ampion supported these efforts with educational materials, a streamlined online registration system and personalized registration assistance. The company’s track record of managing more than 1.5 GW of community solar projects ensures Erie County’s program is built to scale.
To see SPW reporting on how community solar subscriptions are managed.
“We meet residents where they are to ensure we reach as many households with an energy problem as possible,” says Brian Buzby, Community Partnerships Executive at Ampion. “The enrollment numbers reflect both the community’s need for energy cost relief and the effectiveness of working closely with local governments to build trust. Our ability to scale programs like ECLIPSE shows that community solar can reach the families who need it, while still delivering strong results for developers and communities alike.”
The program remains open to Erie County homeowners and renters who participate in federal or state assistance programs, including the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Residents can register for the program at erie.gov/eclipse.
News item from Ampion
