Community solar developers look to artificial intelligence to help manage subscribers and advance equity

 
Solstice, a pioneering company in the solar energy sector, has introduced AI-driven tools designed to assess risk and identify potential subscriber churn, aiming to enhance the efficiency and fairness of community solar projects.
Recent billing issues in ComEd territory in northern Illinois have raised concerns among solar companies, anticipating disruptions. Once rectified, subscribers will face a backlog of credits on their utility bills alongside accumulated charges for participating in solar projects, potentially leading to dissatisfaction and withdrawals.
Recognizing the significance of subscriber retention, especially amidst billing challenges, Solstice’s new AI tool offers a proactive approach to intervene before customers disengage. Subscriber turnover, or “churn,” poses a significant challenge for community solar projects, often fueled by billing frustrations, relocation, or project delays.
Solstice’s AI tool leverages predictive analytics to identify subscribers at risk of churn, drawing insights from a vast dataset of 15,000 accounts. By reaching out to distressed subscribers proactively, Solstice aims to address concerns promptly and ensure subscriber satisfaction.
During a pilot program, Solstice observed a remarkable reduction in churn from 48% to 8.3% among targeted at-risk customers, thanks to their AI intervention strategies. Furthermore, the tool aids in efficiently managing waitlists, expediting the enrollment process for aspiring subscribers.
Beyond addressing churn, Solstice endeavors to democratize access to community solar, challenging conventional credit scoring methods. Their AI-based model, EnergyScore, reveals that individuals with poor credit scores, often excluded from solar subscriptions, exhibit reliable payment behavior. By redefining risk assessment, Solstice aims to increase equity and inclusivity in community solar projects.
While embracing AI for enhanced customer engagement and project viability, Solstice remains vigilant against the risks of discrimination and bias inherent in AI technologies. Continuous monitoring and flexibility in methodology are crucial to mitigate unintended consequences.
CEO Steph Speirs emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in advancing the energy transition and fostering equitable participation in community solar. By leveraging data-driven insights, Solstice seeks to rewrite historical exclusionary practices and accelerate the adoption of solar energy among low-income communities.
Solstice’s commitment to equity aligns with broader industry efforts, as solar developers increasingly utilize advanced technology and AI to enhance customer experience and project viability. Through personalized engagement strategies and innovative AI applications, the solar industry aims to overcome challenges and drive sustainable growth in community solar initiatives.
Source: energynews.us
 
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