The researchers found that non-residential buildings possess considerable unused capacity to produce solar power, which could benefit both the properties themselves and the surrounding communities. Commercial enterprises in low-income areas may be more inclined to take advantage of government incentives for solar power compared to households. The study estimates that solar arrays on non-residential buildings could meet over a fifth of annual residential electricity demand in nearly two-thirds of disadvantaged communities.
Using satellite images and artificial intelligence, the researchers analyzed rooftop solar installations across 72,739 census tracts in the U.S., one-third of which are considered disadvantaged. They tracked solar deployment and identified unused rooftops suitable for solar installation from 2006 to 2016 and again in 2022. The cost of producing solar electricity was calculated based on local sun exposure and other factors, revealing that costs were lower than residential electricity rates in many areas.
The study suggests that surplus electricity from commercial and industrial solar arrays could be distributed to lower-income residents through community subscriptions, avoiding the need for individual rooftop panels. Additionally, the researchers note that non-residential sites offer economies of scale and are more responsive to tax incentives and government inducements.
Overall, the study highlights the potential of utilizing commercial and industrial rooftops to increase access to solar power in disadvantaged communities, offering both environmental and local economic benefits.
