Unlocking Solar Savings Without Ownership
Many renters face the challenge of being unable to benefit from rooftop solar power due to the simple fact they don’t own the property where they live. However, a groundbreaking solution is emerging, allowing renters to enjoy reduced electricity bills without the need for ownership. This alternative comes in the form of community solar, a powerful way for non-homeowners to harness the sun’s energy.
Community Solar Explained by an Expert
Bruce Stewart, CEO of Perch Energy, sheds light on how community solar is empowering renters across the US. With Perch Energy’s extensive experience of over 23,000 community solar subscriptions, Stewart illuminates the potential for significant solar capacity expansion. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) supports this vision, citing the potential to add approximately one terawatt of solar power through community solar projects alone.
How Renters Can Benefit From Community Solar
Community solar bridges a critical gap, offering solar energy benefits to those previously left out, such as renters and marginalized communities. Tenants can register with a community solar provider, choosing solar credits that align with their monthly electricity needs. These credits significantly reduce their electricity expenses and come with the added bonus of being more affordable than the traditional utility costs.
Cost-Saving Examples of Community Solar
Imagine receiving an electricity bill for $100 and then watching it drop to zero through the power of community solar credits. Renters pay for these credits, yet they enjoy a discount ranging from 5 to 20 percent based on the project specifics. Consequently, renters could save between $5 to $20 monthly, echoing the financial advantages usually reserved for rooftop solar panel owners.
Where Can Community Solar Projects Be Found?
Community solar has the unique ability to utilize diverse urban, suburban, and rural spaces, such as school rooftops, religious institutions, small business rooftops, community centers, and repurposed industrial zones. These areas, which would otherwise remain unused, can now contribute to the green energy economy.
The Incentives Driving Community Solar
A combination of federal funding and state-level incentives encourages the development of more solar projects. This, in turn, benefits residents and businesses as they support clean energy and reap rewards through discounts on their energy bills.
The Hassle-Free Approach to Community Solar for Renters
Community solar subscriptions come without the burden of setup costs or cancellation fees. They offer a streamlined process for renters to support renewable energy and watch their electricity bills shrink. What’s more, these subscriptions are portable, allowing flexibility for renters who might move within the same utility service area.
In essence, community solar programs represent an exciting and accessible opportunity for renters to contribute to a cleaner environment while also enjoying the financial perks typically associated with solar panel ownership.
