San José Clean Energy (SJCE) is proud to announce a significant expansion of its award-winning Solar Access Program, which provides 100% renewable energy to pollution-burdened, lower-income residents across San José at a 20% discount. While serving over 800 customers since its launch in 2021, the program is set to expand to more than 1,000 customers thanks to a new solar power plant in Merced County and increased energy capacity, funded by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Residents of the Solar Access program reside in neighborhoods that have historically faced disproportionate environmental burdens, including pollution and limited access to clean air, water, and energy. They are also enrolled in state electric bill assistance programs for low-income households, such as the California Alternate Rates for Energy and the Family Electric Rate Assistance Program.
“Expanding access to clean, affordable energy is essential to building a healthier and more equitable San José. Through the Solar Access Program, we’re ensuring that our most pollution-burdened and underserved communities can benefit from clean solar energy. This new solar facility reflects our commitment to sustainability and environmental justice — not just in words, but in action,” said City Manager Jennifer Maguire.
SJCE celebrated the ribbon-cutting of West Tambo Clean Power II with developer Renewable America LLC and owner/operator Radial Power last month in Livingston, California, commemorating the two-megawatt, 8.5-acre solar power plant now powering the Solar Access Program. West Tambo Clean Power II features solar tracking technology that increases energy output by following the sun throughout the day. This boost in efficiency allows the program to serve an additional 150 customers. In total, the program is set to expand to over 1,000 customers over the next year, thanks in part to the CPUC’s recent decision in the proceeding for the Disadvantaged Communities – Green Tariff, Community Solar Green Tariff, and Green Tariff Shared Renewables Programs, supporting clean energy programs in disadvantaged communities.
This means more San José residents, especially renters and those unable to install rooftop solar, can access discounted, renewable energy. By lowering energy costs and reducing pollution in underserved neighborhoods, SJCE is advancing its commitment to equity and a cleaner future for all.
“Every San José resident deserves access to affordable, renewable energy regardless of income or the type of home they live in. Thanks to this new solar power plant and the leadership of San José Clean Energy, we’re not only reducing emissions, but we’re also lowering bills for families who need it most. This is exactly the kind of smart, equitable investment that moves San José forward,” said Mayor Matt Mahan.
The Solar Access Program was awarded the Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award from the Institute for Local Government for its collaborative and equitable climate resilience initiatives and received a commendation from the San José City Council.
“West Tambo is a physical example of our commitment to equity,” said Lori Mitchell, Director of San José Clean Energy. “Thanks to the increased energy generation at West Tambo and the CPUC authorizing the expanded use of Public Purpose Program funds for the Solar Access Program, more lower-income residents will benefit from solar energy. This project is another step toward our vision of a greener and more inclusive San José.”
SJCE continues to lead the way in providing renewable energy options that benefit both people and the planet. The Solar Access Program’s growth is a testament to SJCE’s mission to ensure equitable access to renewable energy for all.
About the City of San José About San José Clean Energy
With almost 1 million residents, San José is one of the most diverse large cities in the United States and is Northern California’s largest city and the 12th largest city in the nation. San José’s transformation into a global innovation center has resulted in one of the largest concentrations of technology companies and expertise in the world.