LEXINGTON, Ky. — The City of Lexington announced on June 10 that Solarize Lexington is accepting applications for its third year, offering homeowners and other property owners a 20 percent discount on solar panel installations while expanding geographically to serve five neighboring counties.

Mayor Linda Gorton said in a statement that the program "helps Lexington homeowners lower their energy costs, reduce their dependence on the electric grid, and champions a more sustainable future for our community." The discount rate increased from 15 percent to 20 percent compared to previous years, according to the city.

Solarize Lexington connects participants with Solar Energy Solutions, a vetted solar installer, and guides residents through the installation process step-by-step. Unlike previous years, there is no grant funding available this year, meaning participants pay the discounted cost of panels and installation themselves.

Interest forms must be completed by Oct. 2, with contracts required by Oct. 16 and installations completed by the end of 2026. The program now extends to Clark, Scott, Bourbon, Jessamine and Woodford counties as part of the Lexington-Fayette County Metropolitan Statistical Area, expanding on the program's track record of 128 residential solar installations since its launch in 2023.

All property owners, including nonprofits, small businesses, and places of worship, are eligible to participate. Free solar assessments determine whether a roof is suitable for installation. The city warned residents to watch out for scams, noting that the Solarize team will not contact participants unless they submit the interest form. Interested homeowners can complete the form at LexingtonKY.gov/Solarize.

The expanded program supports Lexington's goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, as outlined in the city's Imagine Lexington 2045 comprehensive plan. The city is also pursuing SolSmart accreditation, a national recognition program for solar energy leaders.