Issues in Structuring and Financing: Solar Energy Projects in Rural America -- Why Solar Makes Sense for Rural America

Recent technological advances, federal and state tax incentives and aggressive moves by industry players have increased the solar power industry's position. Basic elements of a successful solar project include a power purchase agreement with a creditworthy off-taker; sufficient land with adequate solar resources; access to adequate transmission capacity; technology rights; capital; and expertise. Government support may include investment and production tax credits. Additional issues affecting success include site selection, capacity payments, "green credits," scheduling and dispatch, transmission, and system stability.