Community Solar Programs: Affordable Renewable Energy for Everyone

Switching to solar energy can be expensive and challenging, especially for renters or homeowners with shaded roofs. Fortunately, community solar programs offer an easy and affordable way to enjoy renewable energy without installing panels on your property.

In this guide, we’ll explore community solar, its benefits, how to join, and its future in the renewable energy landscape.

What are community solar initiatives?

Community solar programs, referred to as shared solar or solar gardens, enable various individuals, businesses, or organizations to take part in a joint solar energy initiative without needing to install solar panels at their premises. These initiatives usually involve the construction of extensive solar farms in strategic locations, with their generated energy being supplied to the local power grid. Program followers are credited on their electricity bills for their portion of the generated solar energy.

How Do Community Solar Programs Work?

The process is simple:

A solar farm is developed – A third-party company, utility provider, or cooperative builds and manages a large solar farm in a designated area.
Consumers subscribe to a share of the project – Renters, and businesses can purchase or lease a portion of the solar farm’s energy output. The amount of energy a subscriber receives depends on their typical electricity usage.
Solar energy is provided to the grid– The electricity produced by the community solar project is sent to the local utility grid, just like power from traditional energy sources.
Subscribers receive bill credits – Participants earn credits on their electricity bills, which reduces their overall energy costs, based on their share of solar production.

Who Can Join a Community Solar Program?

One of the best aspects of community solar is its accessibility. Unlike traditional rooftop solar, which requires homeownership, a suitable roof, and upfront investment, community solar is open to a wider range of people, including:

Renters who don’t own their homes and can’t install rooftop panels
Homeowners with shaded roofs that don’t receive enough sunlight for effective solar power
Businesses and nonprofits looking for a cost-effective way to support renewable energy
Individuals who can’t afford the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar panels

Types of Community Solar Models

There are two primary types of community solar models:

Ownership Model – They purchase a portion of the solar panels in the community project. In return, they receive energy credits based on the output of their owned panels.
Subscription Model – They subscribe to a portion of the energy output without owning the panels. Instead, they pay a monthly fee and receive bill credits based on their share of solar generation.

The subscription model is the most common, as it requires no upfront investment and allows for easier participation.

Key Takeaway: Community solar programs offer an affordable, flexible, and accessible way to benefit from renewable energy without installing solar panels. Whether you’re a renter, a homeowner, or a business, community solar can help lower electricity costs while supporting clean energy.

Advantages of Enrolling in a Community Solar Program

Switching to solar doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Community solar programs offer a simple way to access clean energy, lower your electricity bills, and support sustainability—without installing rooftop panels. Here’s why joining a community solar program is a smart choice:

Lower Electricity Bills – Save 5–20% on energy costs with bill credits from your solar share.
No Upfront Costs – No need to buy or install solar panels—subscribe and start saving.
Open to Renters & Homeowners – No roof needed—ideal for apartments, condos, and homes with shading issues.
Flexible Enrollment – Many programs offer short-term contracts with easy cancellation.
Zero Maintenance – The solar provider handles all upkeep—no repairs or system monitoring for you.
Stable Energy Costs – Less exposure to rising utility rates with predictable solar savings.
Supports Local Jobs – Helps create clean energy jobs and boosts the local economy.

Key Takeaway: Community solar is an easy, affordable way to enjoy solar energy without installation—save money while supporting clean power!

How to Find and Enroll in a Community Solar Program Near You

Joining a community solar program is simple. To locate and register for one close to you, follow these steps:

Check Availability – Use tools like the EnergySage Marketplace or your utility provider’s website to see if community solar is offered in your area.
Compare Plans—Compare subscription costs, expected savings (5–20%), contract length, and cancellation policies.
Sign up—Provide your address and utility account information. While some programs may necessitate a credit check, numerous ones provide open enrollment.
Start Saving – Solar credits appear on your electricity bill within one to two billing cycles.
Stay Informed—Track your savings, monitor policy changes, and check if your subscription can be transferred if you move.

Community Solar vs. Traditional Rooftop Solar: Which Is Right for You?

Feature	Community Solar	Rooftop Solar
Upfront Cost	Low to none	High
Ownership	Subscription-based	Homeowner-owned
Maintenance	None required	Homeowner responsible
Savings	Moderate	Higher over time
Best for	Renters, shared properties, homeowners with shading issues	Homeowners with a suitable roof and long-term plans

Key Takeaway: Find a program, enroll, and start saving—community solar makes clean energy accessible and affordable!

The Future of Community Solar and Its Role in Renewable Energy

Community solar is expanding rapidly, making clean energy more accessible and affordable. Here’s what the future holds:

Rapid Growth—The U.S. community solar market is expected to double in size within five years as more states adopt programs.
Greater Accessibility—Lower costs, no credit checks, and flexible subscription models will make solar energy available to more households.
Advancing Technology – Better battery storage, smarter grids, and more efficient solar panels will improve reliability and energy distribution.
Stronger Policies & Incentives – Federal and state programs, tax credits, and renewable energy mandates will drive further adoption.
Key Role in Clean Energy – Community solar will help reduce fossil fuel dependence, cut carbon emissions, and support local economies.

Key Takeaway: Community solar is shaping the future of renewable energy—making clean power affordable, accessible, and essential for a sustainable world.

FAQs

Can I join a community solar program if I rent my home?

Yes! Community solar is ideal for renters since no installation is required, and subscriptions are often transferable.

Will I still receive electricity from my utility company?

Yes, your utility will still deliver electricity, but you’ll receive bill credits for your share of solar energy produced.

Is there a contract, and can I cancel at any time?

Most programs have contracts, but terms vary. Some allow month-to-month participation, while others may have early cancellation fees.

What’s the potential savings with community solar?

Savings depend on your program and location, but most participants see 5–20% reductions in their electricity bills.

Does community solar work in all states?

Community solar is available in many states, but policies vary. Check with your local utility or a solar marketplace to see if programs are available in your area.

Additional Resources

Conclusion

Community solar offers a great alternative to rooftop solar panels, allowing you to reap the rewards of renewable energy without incurring high expenses or dealing with complications. No matter if you own a home, rent, or run a business, these initiatives provide a flexible and budget-friendly route to cleaner energy. With the increasing adoption of community solar by states, it’s an ideal moment to look into your choices and begin reducing your electricity costs while contributing to a sustainable future.