DOVER — Low- to moderate-income homeowners who have found installation of solar panels beyond their reach could get assistance with a pilot program expected to launch next year.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is requesting applications from contractors to participate in the project. They are due Jan. 21.

The two-year program expects to serve at least 50 clients a year.

It seeks to test expansion of residential solar systems into the low- to moderate-income markets, which have been underserved by existing renewable-energy assistance initiatives.

Experience acquired by DNREC during the pilot will be used to develop a statewide solar program to provide services to these sectors, regardless of electric utility service territory.

“Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through transitioning to cleaner energy sources is a key component of Delaware’s Climate Action Plan,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “Unfortunately, for some families, installing solar panels is outside their budget.

“This pilot program will help us identify the best ways to help low- and moderate-income families make the switch.”

Selected contractors will also be required to apply to the Delaware Green Energy Program — which provides grants and incentives to promote the use of renewable energy — as a condition of participating.

DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy, which is overseeing the project, will provide a list of low-income clients who have recently received services through the department’s Weatherization Assistance Program.

Selected contractors also will be required to provide information in their proposal indicating how they would market to and recruit moderate-income households.

Funding will come from the Weatherization Assistance Program and the Green Energy Program.