Discover how MCE is expanding clean energy access through the Green Access Program, which:
● Supports those facing a heavier burden of pollution, and those having difficulty paying energy bills
● Offers 100% renewable energy service and a 20% electricity bill discount
● Serves 3,200 customers and has provided over $830,000 in bill discounts since launching in 2021
In 2021 MCE launched the Green Access Program to advance clean energy access and energy affordability in our service area. The program supports residents facing disproportionate environmental and financial burdens, providing them with 100% renewable energy service and a 20% discount on their electricity bills for up to 20 years.
“The Green Access Program provides customers in disadvantaged communities with access to renewable energy while decreasing the financial burden that many experience. This program represents a key step in moving toward a greener, more equitable future for all.” – Amy Allum-Poon, MCE Green Access Program Manager
Green Access customers are currently served by the Cottonwood solar project located in Kern and Kings Counties. MCE contracted 4.64 MWh of new steel in the ground solar for the program scheduled to come online in 2024.
Expanding Clean Energy Access
A 最新研究 of US household energy spending found that 16% live in energy poverty. The Green Access program aims to reduce this burden while providing access to clean energy to combat environmental inequities.
The Green Access program serves customers participating in the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) discount programs, and those facing the highest burden from pollution, identified with a CalEnviroScreen score of 90 or higher. The program prioritized enrollment for customers in arrears with overdue energy bills.
The Green Access program reinvests in communities by strategically locating new solar projects in communities facing high pollution burden, identified with a CalEnviroScreen score of 75 or higher. This approach strengthens the local economy, creates green jobs, and prepares communities for a clean energy future.
Program Results
Green Access launched in September 2021 to serve customers in Pittsburg, Richmond, and Vallejo. The Green Access program is fully subscribed, achieving key milestones including:
- 3,200 customers empowered with 100% renewable energy.
- Over $830,000 in customer discounts, easing the financial burden of energy costs for those in need.
- 10,000,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable energy delivered in 2022.
The Green Access Program exemplifies a crucial step in addressing the critical issues of energy equity and environmental justice. By offering renewable energy access and substantial bill discounts to those in need, communities are empowered, pollution is reduced, and a cleaner future is created for everyone.
MCE will be seeking qualified suppliers of new-build solar projects for our other community solar discount program, Community Solar Connection, to promote the installation of renewable generation among residential customers in disadvantaged communities. The program will provide a 20% discount to eligible customers on top of any other discount they already receive, plus 100% renewable energy generated within 5 miles of a designated Disadvantaged Community.
