Renewable Properties has made significant strides in 2024, adding 50 MW of completed projects to its portfolio, a move that underscores its commitment to advancing small-scale utility, community solar, energy storage, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. This expansion, announced on January 21, reflects a broader trend in the renewable energy sector, where community-driven initiatives are increasingly becoming a focal point of development.
The projects span four states, showcasing a diverse approach that includes traditional community solar, utility-administered solar for low-income communities, and standard utility solar. New York State stands out with five community solar projects totaling more than 18 MW. Notably, the Slayton Settlement Road Solar A & B projects in Lockport are pioneering in their use of agrivoltaics, integrating agricultural practices with solar energy generation. By partnering with local sheep farmers for ground cover management and designating areas for beekeeping, these projects enhance biodiversity while maintaining the agricultural viability of the land. This dual-use model not only supports the cultivation of honey, wool, and lamb meat but also preserves the legacy of a third-generation organic dairy farm.
In California, three projects in Chowchilla and El Nido, totaling nearly 15 MW, are part of PG&E’s Disadvantaged Communities Green Tariff program. This initiative incentivizes developers to create renewable energy solutions in underserved areas, providing power to low-income households with a 20% bill credit. Such programs not only address energy equity but also empower communities by lowering energy costs and fostering local job creation.
Maine also saw the initiation of three community solar projects in 2024, with a combined capacity of over 11 MW, while North Carolina contributed a 6.62-MW project in Gibson, participating in the state’s Qualifying Facility program. These developments illustrate a growing recognition of the importance of localized renewable energy solutions that cater to the specific needs of communities.
Aaron Halimi, founder and CEO of Renewable Properties, emphasized the company’s mission: “The 50 MW of projects Renewable Properties brought online in 2024 are furthering our mission to drive energy forward for local communities. These projects exemplify how we accomplish that mission, with a majority of them being community solar projects bringing communities a host of benefits, such as energy bill savings, local jobs, increased revenue, and local environmental benefits.” This statement encapsulates the essence of community solar, where the benefits extend beyond mere energy generation to encompass economic and environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Renewable Properties is not resting on its laurels. The company is set to build new EV charging hubs in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering specifically to last-mile delivery fleets. With 235 MW of solar already in operation or under construction across 51 projects, the company anticipates completing another 90 MW from its robust 1.2-GW pipeline in 2025.
As Renewable Properties continues to innovate and expand, it highlights a significant shift in the energy landscape. The focus on community engagement, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment is reshaping how we think about renewable energy development. This trend not only addresses the urgent need for clean energy but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within local communities, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
