What are LMI benefits and what do they have to do with community solar?
LMI benefits consist of programs and resources designed to help individuals and families who fall within specific income limits. They can include housing, food, or financial assistance.
Some states have created incentive programs to provide funding for community solar projects that subscribe low-income customers. Other states even require a certain percentage of a community solar project to specifically serve low-income subscribers or low-income-serving organizations. If a customer provides proof of LMI documentation for one of these programs, they may be eligible for additional discounts on community solar.
How do I know if my customers are eligible for these benefits?
Specific LMI benefits and eligibility requirements can vary significantly between states and even within counties or cities. Each state-specific training includes a running list of our markets' applicable programs.
Is there a list of eligible programs?
There sure is. Eligibility differs from market to market, so we've include the specific programs in each state here.
How do customers submit their LMI documentation?
The fastest and easiest way to submit LMI documentation is through the form capture field during enrollment. If qualified customers are unable to provide their documentation at that time, they can at anytime during their enrollment through this form or by emailing nosolar@thinkcommunitysolar.com. Once we receive their submission, we'll either update their accounts or request more information -- a process that takes 2-3 business days.
What if customers do not submit their LMI documentation at the time of enrollment?
If LMI documentation is submitted after 30 days from enrollment, points and/or commissions will not be adjusted. This aligns with existing business rules regarding market data like usage, where bands/tiers are determined by utility-provided data.
The same goes for CAB payments, which are not adjusted retroactively when LMI documentation is provided after the initial enrollment or usage data assignment. For example, if solar customers later submit LMI documentation, their CAB payments will not be adjusted or "trued up." This approach ensures consistency and fairness in how points and commissions are calculated, and avoids complications from retroactive adjustments.
Do I get compensated differently for LMI customers?
Yes. Please review the Think+ Compensation Plan for details on how LMI customers can affect your business.
