This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Low-income solar program expands into unincorporated LA County
Listen
0:51
Low-income solar program expands into unincorporated LA County
Low-income solar program expands into unincorporated LA County
A program that has pushed rooftop solar power into East Los Angeles is now pushing forward throughout L.A. County.
The 5-year-old program is called “Green Grants.” Enterprise Community Partners runs it, supported by federal community development block grant money.
Homeowners that make less than $68,000 for a family of four can qualify for energy efficiency retrofits and rooftop solar systems if their houses are sturdy enough.
So far, the grants have been available to about 90 East L.A. homes in L.A. County Supervisor Gloria Molina’s district. Now the project’s expanding to all parts of unincorporated L.A. County in Molina’s district. The state has a separate solar program for low-income families, but it’s harder to qualify for that one.
Enterprise says the East L.A. houses with new solar panels already report lower utility bills. The group argues over 30 years, cuts in greenhouse gas emissions from renewable energy at these sites will be just like planting 3,000 trees.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
