Community Solar: How It Works and Who Benefits

Not everyone can install rooftop solar — you might rent, have a shaded roof, or live in a condo. Community solar is an alternative that lets anyone benefit from solar energy.

What Is Community Solar?

Community solar (also called shared solar or solar gardens) is a large solar array installed in a central location. Multiple households subscribe to the project and receive credits on their electric bill for their share of the energy produced.

It's like a community garden — you don't own the plot, but you get a share of the harvest.

How It Works

1. A solar developer builds a solar farm (typically 1–5 MW, serving 100–500 homes)
2. You subscribe to a portion of the solar production
3. The solar farm generates electricity and sends it to the grid
4. Your utility applies credits to your bill based on your share
5. You save 5–15% on your monthly electric bill

Benefits of Community Solar

• No upfront cost — most programs are free to join
• No installation — nothing is installed on your property
• No maintenance — the operator handles everything
• Portable — if you move within the same utility area, your subscription moves with you
• Flexible — most programs allow cancellation with 60–90 days notice

Who Should Consider Community Solar?

Community solar is ideal for:

• Renters who can't install rooftop solar
• Condo owners without roof access
• Homeowners with shaded or unsuitable roofs
• Homeowners who can't afford upfront solar costs
• Those who want to support clean energy without a long-term commitment

States With Community Solar Programs

Community solar is available in many states, with the strongest programs in:

• Minnesota: One of the largest community solar markets in the US
• Massachusetts: SMART program includes community solar
• New York: NY-Sun community solar program
• Colorado: Xcel Energy community solar
• Maryland: Community solar pilot program
• Illinois: Illinois Shines community solar
• Maine: Net energy billing for community solar
• New Jersey: Community solar energy pilot program
• Hawaii: Community-based renewable energy program

How to Join a Community Solar Program

1. Check availability — Search for community solar programs in your state or utility area
2. Compare offers — Look at the savings rate (typically 5–15%), contract length, and cancellation terms
3. Sign up — Most programs require only your utility account info
4. Start saving — Credits appear on your utility bill within 1–2 billing cycles

Community Solar vs Rooftop Solar

| Factor | Community Solar | Rooftop Solar | |---|---|---| | Upfront cost | $0 | $15,000–$25,000 | | Savings | 5–15% off bill | 70–95% off bill | | Ownership | Subscription | You own the system | | Maintenance | Handled by operator | Your responsibility | | Home value | No impact | Increases ~4% | | Contract | 1–5 years | 25+ years | | Best for | Renters, low upfront | Homeowners, long-term |

The Catch

Community solar savings are smaller than rooftop solar — you save 5–15% vs 70–95%. But with zero upfront cost and no installation, it's an excellent option for those who can't go rooftop.

Not Sure Which Is Right for You?

Run our free AI Home Energy Advisor. It considers your homeownership status, roof condition, budget, and goals to recommend the best solar option — whether that's rooftop solar, community solar, or simply waiting.

Community solar is making solar accessible to everyone — not just homeowners with perfect roofs and big budgets.