LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Solar Over Louisville program, a solarization partnership between Louisville Metro Government and the Louisville Sustainability Council helped 92 property owners sign contracts to install solar panels on their homes and small businesses, in what city leaders called an "overwhelming success."
The strong adoption numbers made it the largest solar project in Louisville, and officials confirmed it will relaunch in 2023.
What You Need To Know
- Solar Over Louisville is relaunching next year after a successful first year underway
- The program helped 92 property owners sign contracts to install solar panels on their homes and small businesses
- On average, Solar Over Louisville homes will have about 80% of their annual energy use met through solar
Outgoing Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said he was proud to lead the city during the program that expanded access to sustainable energy.
“Fighting the effects of climate change takes buy-in from everyone – government, nonprofits, businesses and residents," Fischer said in a press release. “We are excited by the interest Solar Over Louisville received this year and look forward to continuing the program in the coming years as we strive to meet our sustainability goals.”
Collectively, the program's solar arrays will represent $2.8 million of local investment in solar and 836 kW PV. On average, Solar Over Louisville homes will have about 80% of their annual energy use met through solar.
The campaign also saw 513 kWh of battery storage systems installed, officials said.
“The Solar Over Louisville program made going solar a simple decision,” said Kristen Beck, a Solar Over Louisville participant. “The whole process gave me a lot of confidence in my decision. I could not be any happier with the outcome. Just wish I’d done it sooner.”
To extend the Solar Over Louisville campaign's benefits to low- to moderate-income residents, LMG’s Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability awarded $113,000 in grants to seven income-qualifying homeowners that covered the full cost of their solar installation.
Solar Over Louisville launched in February 2022 with Kentucky-based Solar Energy Solutions as the campaign’s chosen installer. Given the significant community interest, the city, LSC, and the Kentucky Solar Energy Society will relaunch the program in early 2023.
Rooftop solar has the potential to reduce individuals' energy cost burden while simultaneously acting against climate change. Residential buildings account for 27.4% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions.