Discount solar program returns for Triangle residents

More rooftops are soaking up the spring sun in Raleigh, with local programs that incentivize clean energy with steep discounts.

“I actually decided to take the plunge and install solar panels on my own house,” said Raleigh city council member Jane Harrison.

She's one of more than 1,500 residents to signup for the “Solarize the Triangle” community buying program, an initiative that broke national records for community signups since its launch last year.

"I'm actually going to be able to fuel all the energy for my home using these panels," Harrison said. "I'm not going to be using fossil fuels at all."

The Triangle is launching another year of the program this Friday at an Earth Day celebration at Dorthea Dix Park from 5-8 p.m.

Local residents can sign up online or in person to save thousands of dollars on residential solar panel installation. This year's program also features subsidies for low-income residents.

Residents can also get a 30% tax credit from federal incentives.

Durham resident Wib Gulley says the financial perks helped him make the decision.

"My electric bill used to be hundreds of dollars and now I pay $16 a month," he said.

The program is part of the city’s community climate action plan, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050.