Written by Asimina Fotopoulou, Graphic Designer at Wattcrop.
What if there was a way to support local clean energy and save on your electricity bill without installing a single solar panel? The answer to this question is community solar projects, which are large solar farms that generate electricity for more than one property.
Also referred to as solar farms, shared solar, solar gardens, or roofless solar, a community solar project is a large, central power plant that generates electricity for the grid. Unlike utility-scale solar, private developers or, in some cases, subscribers themselves own community solar farms. When you subscribe to a farm, your solar panels don’t directly connect to your home or business.
How Community Solar Projects Work:
- You subscribe to a solar farm in your utility company’s territory, and the farm’s subscription organization assigns you a share of the farm based on your electricity usage.
- Your share of the solar farm generates emission-free solar power and exports it to the electric grid.
- Your utility company distributes this electricity throughout the grid.
- You pay your community solar provider for credit towards your electric bill based on the amount of electricity your share of the farm generates.
- Your utility company applies the bill credits to your monthly bill, reducing your charges.
Is Community Solar Projects Worth It?
Determining if community solar is worth it depends on your specific circumstances. If you want to invest in solar energy, but lack space for your own solar panels, community solar could be the ideal option. The solar panels are usually located in a centralized solar farm or a sunny area, enabling individuals who cannot install solar panels on their rooftops, such as renters or those with shaded roofs, to access renewable energy. Additionally, community solar might be financially beneficial, as it often involves lower upfront costs than rooftop solar, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking savings on their electricity bills.
However, the worth of community solar also depends on the availability of community solar projects in your area and your long-term commitment to the program. Before deciding, research local options, consider your energy needs, and assess the potential financial and environmental benefits to determine if community solar aligns with your goals and preferences.
In conclusion, community solar projects offer a practical and inclusive approach to expanding access to affordable renewable energy. By fostering community engagement, sharing costs, and leveraging local resources, these projects can play a vital role in achieving a more sustainable and equitable energy future for all.