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Definition
Community solar is a shared solar project that lets households subscribe to a portion of a larger off-site array and receive utility bill credits for their share of the power produced. You don't install any panels on your own property, which makes it a strong fit for renters or people with shaded or otherwise unsuitable roofs. Instead of buying or financing a rooftop system, you pay for a subscription tied to a slice of the project's output, and the credits flow back onto your monthly utility bill. Because these programs are set up at the state and utility level, availability depends on state programs and varies widely. Some areas have robust offerings while others have none, and subscription terms, credit rates, and cancellation rules differ by provider. Always review the specific subscription agreement and your state's rules before signing up.
Also Known As
Shared solar
Solar gardens
Community solar subscription
Off-site shared solar
Used in Context
- Because she rents an apartment with no roof access, she subscribed to a community solar project and now sees credits on her utility bill each month.
- A homeowner with heavy tree shade chose community solar instead of rooftop panels to avoid a poorly performing installation.
- Dreamy Leads connected a shaded-roof household with a community solar provider operating in their state after a rooftop quote didn't pencil out.
Do I need to install panels for community solar?
No. Community solar lets you subscribe to a portion of a larger off-site array and receive utility bill credits without installing any panels on your property. That's why it works well for renters or homes with shaded or unsuitable roofs where a rooftop system isn't practical.
Is community solar available where I live?
It depends. Community solar availability hinges on state programs, which vary widely. Some states and utilities offer well-developed programs, while others have none at all. Check whether your state and local utility support community solar before assuming you can subscribe.
Who is community solar best for?
Community solar is ideal for renters and households with shaded or otherwise unsuitable roofs that can't support panels. If you can't or don't want to install a rooftop system, subscribing to a shared off-site array lets you earn utility bill credits, subject to your state's program availability.
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