The DOE and NETL have updated two crucial datasets for targeting energy communities: Coal Closures and MSAs/non-MSAs. These datasets are now integrated into AO Prospect as selectable layers, allowing solar developers to easily access this information on a map while searching for potential land for solar farm development. What's more, the MSAs/non-MSAs dataset now includes unemployment rates, providing developers with valuable insights into energy communities. This integration of data and technology empowers developers to make informed decisions and effectively target areas for solar development, unlocking new possibilities for renewable energy and thriving energy communities.

Do you wish you could identify coal power plants that are set to retire? Wish no more!

This map layer, courtesy of the Department of Energy and the NETL, identifies coal power plants that have been closed or set to retire, alongside key infrastructure characteristics that are crucial to identify potential development opportunities.

What actually is an energy community? There are three types of location-based categories under the IRA, each with its own qualifying criteria. The first two are straightforward, while the third is more complex. Understanding these categories is crucial for businesses and developers looking to take advantage of the available tax credits and contribute to a sustainable future.