Biden-Harris administration launched Clean Energy Connector to bring nearly $15 million in annual energy savings

Families in New Mexico, Illinois, and Washington D.C. will now have access to community solar through HHS’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

The Biden-Harris Administration, in collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has launched the pilot phase of the Clean Energy Connector. This innovative tool aims to link families with solar energy through HHS’ Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The integration of LIHEAP-eligible households with community solar subscriptions is expected to reduce energy bills, enhance access to clean energy in underserved communities, and promote equitable deployment of solar energy, aligning with President Biden’s clean energy and Justice 40 objectives.

The pilot program, announced in 2022, will enable up to 40,000 LIHEAP-eligible households across Illinois, New Mexico, and Washington, D.C., to access community solar projects. Participants who enroll successfully could experience substantial savings on their electricity bills, in line with the National Community Solar Partnership's objective of achieving 20% household savings, equivalent to $370 per household annually. DOE has also engaged an advisory group comprising industry organizations such as the American Public Power Association, Clean Energy States Alliance, Edison Electric Institute, and others to provide strategic guidance during the connector's development process. Interested states are encouraged to participate in DOE's upcoming webinar on April 10 to learn more about joining the initiative.