IX. Low Income Customer and Affordable Housing Installations

As a matter of equity, we hope to encourage installation of solar systems by low income customers and in low income or affordable housing projects. Currently, the staff report suggests that we set aside 10% of the funds for this purpose and provide 125% of the usual incentive to qualifying affordable housing projects. The staff report also suggests we consider whether to provide low interest or zero interest financing for qualifying low income projects.

PG&E and ASPv/PV Now support staff's recommendation for higher incentives to low income housing projects.

We adopt staff's recommendations with regard to the level of incentives for affordable housing projects and low income customers (that is, those who qualify for CARE rates). Therefore, qualifying customers and developers would receive 125% of the prevailing incentive for solar installations. We require a minimum of 10% of program funds be applied to projects installed by low income residential customers and affordable housing projects. We will also consider the possible benefits of providing financing to low income customers and affordable housing projects, as discussed previously.