Austin, Texas has long been at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution, with a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a clean energy future. In recent years, the city has made significant progress in the deployment of solar energy, with new installations and innovative programs driving growth in the sector.
One of the key drivers of solar energy progress in Austin has been the city's net-zero carbon goal. In 2014, the city set a goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and has since taken a number of steps to reduce its carbon footprint. These steps include the adoption of a Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires all new commercial and multifamily buildings to offset 100% of their annual energy consumption with renewable energy credits or on-site renewable energy generation.
Another important driver of solar energy progress in Austin has been the city's commitment to community solar. In 2016, the city launched the Community Solar Program, which allows residents to purchase solar power from a shared solar array without having to install panels on their own property. This program has been incredibly popular, with over 1,200 subscribers and a total capacity of 3.3 MW.
In addition to these programs, Austin has also made significant progress in the deployment of rooftop solar. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Austin ranked fourth in the nation for solar installations in 2020, with 163 MW of installed capacity. This represents a significant increase from just a few years ago, when Austin had only 22 MW of installed solar capacity.
One of the key drivers of this growth has been the city's robust solar rebate program, which offers rebates of up to $2,500 for residential and commercial solar installations. In addition, the city has streamlined the permitting and inspection process for solar installations, making it easier and more affordable for homeowners and businesses to go solar.
Looking ahead, Austin is well-positioned to continue its progress in solar energy. The city has set ambitious goals for renewable energy and carbon reduction, and has taken significant steps to incentivize solar deployment and educate the public about the benefits of solar energy. In 2021, the city announced a new plan to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2035, which includes a target of 600 MW of solar capacity by 2025.
In addition to these goals, the city has also taken a number of steps to encourage innovation and investment in solar energy. In 2019, Austin Energy, the city's municipal utility, launched the Plug-In EVerywhere program, which provides incentives for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations powered by solar energy. This program not only encourages the adoption of electric vehicles, but also creates new opportunities for solar developers and installers.
Another key initiative in Austin's solar energy progress is the Solar Austin organization, a non-profit that promotes the use of solar energy through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Solar Austin has played a critical role in advancing solar policy and awareness in the city, and has helped to drive the growth of the solar industry in Austin and beyond.
With continued innovation and investment, Austin can lead the way in the transition to a clean energy future, while creating jobs and economic growth in the process. As the city continues to set ambitious goals and implement innovative programs, it is clear that Austin is a leader in the solar energy industry, and a model for other cities and communities to follow.