The City of Lexington is kicking off the second year of Solarize Lexington, a program to encourage solar panel installation so residents can reduce their reliance on the electric grid. Last year, over 70 arrays of solar panels were installed by the end of 2023.
“We are pleased that the first year of Solarize Lexington has been a success,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Lexington residents are clearly interested in reducing their reliance on the electric grid, and we’re happy to be able to provide resources to assist in that.”
Solarize Lexington connects participants to a solar installer, Solar Energy Solutions. The program walks residents through the solar installation process, and give households bulk-purchasing power. Solarize Lexington is open to all homeowners in Fayette County, with other property owners such as non-profits, small businesses and places of worship also encouraged to apply. Anyone interested in the program is invited to a Solar 101 virtual webinar on Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. Register for the webinar at lexingtonky.gov/solar.
Once again, the city will partner with the Kentucky Solar Energy Society for this program. “Solarize Lexington represents the biggest ever grass-roots community solar program in Kentucky. We have done the shopping, so you don’t have to,” said Steve Ricketts, Executive Director of the Kentucky Solar Energy Society. “If people in Lexington want to go solar this year, there is no better, safer and more informed place to make it happen than through this partnership. We are committed to having the best installer possible, at very attractive discounted price points.”
LFUCG has limited funds available for qualified low to moderate-income homeowners. Participants wishing to apply for grant funds must own and occupy their single-family home. Qualification depends on several factors, including household income and family size, roof orientation and structure, and sun exposure. Grants will be available for those who qualify on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted. Outside of the grant program, participants are responsible for the cost of solar panels and installation.
All solar installations will be individual contracts between the household and the solar installer. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government will not assume any liability related to the installation.
For more information and to complete the interest form, visit our solar page.
