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 Georgia BRIGHT Solar Lease Program Coming To Savannah

Applications Opening on Sept. 26

SAVANNAH (Sept. 20, 2023) – Qualified Savannah homeowners will soon have the opportunity to apply for solar panel leases to help reduce their energy costs. 

Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 26, homeowners can apply through the City of Savannah’s participation in the Georgia BRIGHT program, coordinated by the Office of Sustainability as part of the City’s 100% Savannah plan. 

“The Office of Sustainability has heard from so many residents that struggle with high energy bills, particularly in the summer,” Alicia Brown, acting director of the Office of Sustainability said. “With Georgia BRIGHT, residents will benefit from lower energy bills in their first month and more stable energy bills in the future. As we’ve seen over this past year, utility rates can increase significantly and unexpectedly. With a Georgia BRIGHT lease residents can protect themselves against rising energy prices and enjoy predictable savings with solar energy.” 

The 100% Savannah Plan, approved through a resolution by City Council in March of 2020, commits fully to a future where safe, clean renewable energy transforms economic opportunity, improves community health and well-being, and protects our natural environment.

Georgia BRIGHT is designed to reach low- to moderate- income (LMI) homeowners in Georgia by using solar power to bring energy bills down through a discount solar lease program that saves eligible homeowners money starting day one. 

On average, homeowners will save 15% per month on their utility bill. There are no upfront costs to participate in the program, and monthly payments after installation average $47. 

Savings and lease costs will vary based on how much sunlight the home receives, how much energy a household uses, and when that energy is used. Local solar installers will help residents understand whether solar is right for them and whether their home is solar-ready. 

To qualify, Savannah residents must own their home, have a roof in good condition, and meet certain income requirements. No minimum credit score is required. To keep eligibility simple, the program has established a gross annual household income limit of $100,000 or less per year. 

To learn more about how to become a Georgia BRIGHT home, visit bit.ly/GABRIGHT or call (866) 584-3651. This program is administered by the Capital Good Fund, a certified nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).