By Sania Murtuza, Tai Vu, Biplav Pokhrel, and Yao Sun, Ph.D.
This research project investigated the effectiveness of low- and moderate-income (LMI) community solar programs in New Jersey, where we focused on their role in promoting energy justice in under-resourced communities. The research team recruited 158 participants from low- and moderate-income neighborhoods in open discussions to elaborate on their experiences with renewable energy adoption and community solar initiatives using an online AI-based crowdsourcing tool.
Our findings revealed significant barriers that the LMI communities are facing, which included a lack of awareness, financial constraints, and concerns that involved the accessibility and affordability of solar programs. However, despite these challenges that were expressed, the community stakeholders seemed to delineate a strong interest in renewable energy and a desire for more inclusive and transparent program designs that can help improve the environment. They depicted enthusiasm in taking action to provide solar panel energy to others who live in low- and moderate-income households.
Our analysis highlights the importance of targeted policy interventions prioritizing education, community engagement, and support for low- and moderate-income households to achieve energy justice in New Jersey.