The Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in New Orleans met on March 11 to discuss updates on community solar standards, direct transfer trip requirements, and recent work by the Louisiana Public Service Commission. The meeting included presentations from Entergy New Orleans and Commissioner Davante Lewis.
The topics addressed at the meeting are important as they impact access to clean energy, electricity costs for residents, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions in Louisiana. Community solar projects, grid safety measures, and new energy efficiency rules were among the main points discussed.
During the session, the Committee heard about ongoing efforts to expand community solar in New Orleans. The current pipeline aims for a capacity of 60 megawatts, which could supply power to between 6,000 and 7,800 homes. The Sisters of the Holy Family Community Solar Project was highlighted as an example of these efforts. Subscribers receive bill credits at a one-to-one rate with additional incentives for low-income families. These projects are expected to help lower demand on the grid, reduce blackouts, and decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
A representative from Entergy New Orleans updated the Committee on revisions to Direct Transfer Trip (DTT) standards—a safety feature that disconnects large solar installations during grid faults. Revised guidance is expected by mid-April with a full update anticipated by mid-June. The Council is extending project deadlines from March 13 to April 27 while ENO finalizes its review.
Commissioner Davante Lewis reported that Louisiana’s per capita energy use remains high despite low rates and that state carbon emissions are nearly double the national average due mainly to industrial activity. He said new rules have been implemented to strengthen energy-efficiency programs across Louisiana. Other initiatives include promoting local solar projects, electric school buses, expanded electric vehicle infrastructure, annual fuel audits starting July 2026 for Delta Utilities, improved gas hedging strategies, and potential rebates for heat pumps as part of efforts to shift more operations from gas to electric.
Committee members thanked Commissioner Lewis for his support of council initiatives such as community solar expansion. The next steps include continued coordination between Entergy New Orleans and affected projects as well as further updates from both city officials and state regulators.
