Increasing Access to Solar Energy in Seattle, Washington through the Framework of Energy Democracy

Abstract

This thesis explores solar energy accessibility in Seattle, Washington. I examine current purchase and installation costs for solar energy for single family homes in Seattle, as well as existing barriers to solar energy for low and average-income residents. Four financing tools are evaluated through the framework of energy democracy: net metering, federal Investment Tax Credits, neighborhood and bulk solar purchasing, and community solar program models. The analysis of the tools based on their ability to advance energy democracy goals provides strategies and opportunities for equitably increasing access to solar energy for residents in Seattle.