Colorado has several key solar programs aimed at promoting solar energy adoption for residents, businesses, and particularly low-income communities. Here are the main solar programs in the state:
Colorado Solar For All (COS4A)
- A major program funded with $156 million awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
- Designed to accelerate adoption of rooftop solar (single family and multifamily) and community solar projects targeted at low-income Coloradans.
- It aims to improve air quality, reduce energy bills, and increase energy independence, helping Colorado reach its goal of 100% clean energy by 2040.
- The program works with competitively selected partners to deliver and manage solar assets and is currently in the development and planning phase.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Solar Component
- Offers rooftop solar photovoltaics to qualified low-income households on a limited basis.
- Colorado was the first state approved by the U.S. Department of Energy to integrate rooftop solar into the Weatherization Assistance Program.
- This program targets reducing electricity costs for low-income residents, potentially saving participants more than $400 annually.
- Installation is subject to home suitability and thorough professional audits.
Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program
- The largest investor-owned utility in Colorado offers Solar*Rewards, an incentivized rebate program for residential and business solar customers.
- Eligible participants can get upfront rebates—typically $1 per watt installed, which can amount to approximately $5,000 for a typical 5 kW system.
- The program provides annual payments to solar owners and supports distributed solar generation.
Holy Cross Energy Solar Rebates
- Provides upfront rebates for customers who install solar systems.
- The rebates vary by system size, offering $250 per kW for systems between 0 and 6 kW, and $100 per kW for systems between 6 and 25 kW.
EnergySmart Colorado
- A nonprofit collaboration involving local governments, utilities, and organizations that offers rebates and incentives for solar installations to qualifying participants across Colorado.
- Helps make solar adoption more affordable for residents through local partnerships and programs.
Additional Context on Solar and Energy Storage
- Colorado has robust policies supporting solar installations, community solar, and utility-scale solar projects, alongside growing energy storage capacity.
- The state has net metering at full retail rate, allowing solar homeowners to earn credits for excess electricity produced, enhancing bill savings.
- Significant solar projects include large utility-scale solar farms like Comanche Solar (150 MW) and corporate solar installations by major companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Target.
These programs collectively support Colorado’s transition to clean energy by making solar power affordable and accessible, especially for low-income residents, and encouraging widespread adoption across all sectors.
Summary Table of Main Colorado Solar Programs
| Program | Target Audience | Description | Funding/Incentive Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Solar For All (COS4A) | Low-income households | Rooftop & community solar installations | $156 million federal funding |
| Weatherization Assistance Program | Low-income homes | Rooftop solar integrated with weatherization | Limited rooftop PV installations |
| Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards | Residential & commercial | Rebates and annual payments | ~$1/watt upfront rebate, plus payments |
| Holy Cross Energy Rebates | Holy Cross Energy customers | Upfront rebates based on system size | $250/kW (0-6 kW), $100/kW (6-25 kW) |
| EnergySmart Colorado | Qualifying local residents | Rebates through local partnerships | Variable based on local program |
These programs enhance solar adoption affordability and accessibility throughout Colorado.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-solar-programs-in-colorado/
