Expanding Access to Solar Energy in Rhode Island: Introducing the Rhode Island Affordable Solar Access Pathways (ASAP) Program

Empowering Underserved Communities: The Mission of the ASAP Program

We are happy to announce that we have launched the Rhode Island Affordable Solar Access Pathways Program (ASAP) in partnership with the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources and Rhode Island Commerce’s Renewable Energy Fund. The ASAP Program will boost the deployment of solar energy in environmental justice focus areas or areas that are eligible for the federal Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program. With this initiative, we are determined to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for Rhode Island. 

Governor Daniel McKee of Rhode Island and Thomas Neyhart,  Executive Chair of the Board at PosiGen, at the Rhode Island ASAP Launch Event on January 25.

The ASAP Program has been designed to make solar energy affordable and accessible for homeowners in underserved communities, regardless of their income or background. The ASAP Program provides a solar lease and energy efficiency measures for eligible households.  Solar leases have been found to increase solar adoption among underserved communities because they have no upfront costs, provide homeowners with immediate utility bill savings, and are able to fully utilize federal incentives such as the investment tax credit. 

Equity in Action: Making Solar Energy Affordable for All

The ASAP Program provides eligible residents with access to PosiGen's one-of-a-kind solar leasing program, encompassing a comprehensive package featuring a rooftop solar system, a thorough home energy audit, and energy efficiency upgrades. PosiGen's unique solar lease stands out by having no credit score, income, or debt-to-income ratio requirements. PosiGen also understands the importance of home energy audits and efficiency services to increase energy savings and allow for solar to cover more of a household’s energy needs.

The ASAP Program also offers a variety of benefits to eligible residents such as discounted pricing, guaranteed first-year savings, and a 25-year system performance guarantee. Furthermore, participants benefit from a comprehensive maintenance and warranty support program throughout the term of the lease.

Members of the Office of Energy Resources team and Rhode Island Commerce’s Renewable Energy Fund.

To be eligible for the ASAP Program, participants must meet four criteria. First, households must live in “Environmental Justice Focus Areas'' as defined by the state or eligible low-income census tracts. Second, their household income must be less than or equal to 80% of the state median income. Third, applicants must own their home. Finally, the roof must be in good condition and have adequate solar resources to meet the program’s minimum technical requirements. 

There are geographic areas eligible for the ASAP Program located in:

• Providence
• East Providence
• Woonsocket
• Central Falls
• Warren
• West Warwick
• Newport
• Middletown

PosiGen's Commitment to Rhode Island

PosiGen, now a B Corp-certified company, was selected for this initiative after responding to an RFP issued by OER & RI Commerce in late 2022. At PosiGen, we are firm believers in the transformative power of solar energy and its vast potential to impact underserved communities and the environment positively. We are filled with excitement to be part of this groundbreaking initiative and are eager to contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for Rhode Island. The Program will reach communities through educational webinars, participation in local events, and spreading information through trusted community organizations or partners about the benefits of the Program and solar energy.

“We are proud to partner with Governor McKee, the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, and the Renewable Energy Fund to launch the Affordable Solar Access Pathways (ASAP) program,” said Peter Shaper, CEO of PosiGen. “At PosiGen, we firmly believe that affordable solar energy should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income or background. Through ASAP, we are committed to contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future for Rhode Island by reducing the energy burden for low- and moderate-income families across the state.”

Ben Healy, Chief Financial Officer at PosiGen, speaks at the Rhode Island ASAP Launch Event.

The ASAP Program is a significant stride towards a future that is not only sustainable but also equitable. Through the ASAP Program, PosiGen is committed to providing equal opportunities for all citizens of Rhode Island to harness the power of solar energy. As we know, solar energy is a clean, renewable, and bountiful source of power, and through the ASAP Program, we aim to democratize access to this power source. "It's about lowering barriers so that everyone has access to invest in clean energy," said Ben Healy, PosiGen's Chief Financial Officer.

Want to learn more about the ASAP Program or sign up for a solar consultation? Then visit our Rhode Island ASAP Program page today. One of our solar experts will be in touch with you shortly once you fill out the designated form.