A Duke Energy rebate program which has helped small churches and other nonprofit faith organizations afford rooftop solar systems is on the chopping block.

Dozens have taken advantage of the 2017 law which requires Duke to offer the rebates, but that is about to expire. Thousands more have been eligible, and most of the other rebate or tax credit programs are not usable by these nonprofits.

One of the tools which may be helpful going forward is the change which will allow nonprofits to lease on-site solar systems from companies which do the construction and recoup part of the costs from tax credits. However, if we’re going to meet the need and potential for clean energy in our state, we need more attractive ways for customers to access these systems — whether residential, commercial, or community nonprofit.