By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
Massachusetts is still working out its solar future, but at least for residents of Boston and the eastern part of the state, community solar has become much easier to access, thanks to the efforts of a company called Ampion.
Under a new agreement with Eversource, the area’s primary utility, residents living in the eastern half of Massachusetts will now be able to purchase solar electricity from community solar farms in the western part of the state. Prior to this agreement, the two segments of Eversource’s customer base were considered separately, severely hindering the spread of community solar programs throughout the state.
Ampion facilitates community solar farms by working with current Massachusetts solar developers. As these farms produce power, subscribers receive “solar credits” on their electric bill that offset their balance. In addition to supporting clean power, subscribers save money through the program, as each credit is sold at a discount from their value on the electric bill.
“This is one of the most advantageous customer programs the Commonwealth has ever seen,” said Nate Owen, CEO of Ampion. “Bostonians can simply sign up for a clean energy offering that cuts their utility costs. The benefits of solar are now available to people who never before had the option: lower prices, cleaner air, and safer energy. We’ve already had hundreds of residents and businesses sign up.”
Eversource customers can learn more and sign up by visiting signup.ampion.io. Capacity is limited, so residents and businesses are encouraged to enroll their meters while there is still availability.
“As a Bostonian, I can experience the benefits of community solar as both an advocate and a customer,” says Chris Mills, head of outreach at Ampion. “As a tenant, I could never go solar, but now it’s easier than ever. Even if I move, I can take my subscription with me anywhere in the city. It’s a point I like to make to my friends who rent their apartments.”