What is Community Solar?

At EMA, we believe sustainability should be accessible and equitable for everyone! That's why we try and shine a light on innovations and solutions that include everyone. One of those solutions is community solar.  

We spoke with Nautilus Solar's Senior PR and Communications Associate, Carlene Pruitt, to learn more!

What is community solar, and what advantages does it have for people who rent or don't want to invest in panels for their homes?

 Community solar is available to everyone. Anyone who pays an electric bill can subscribe to a solar project in their area. Community solar is best suited for people who cannot or prefer not to install a PV system on their roof but want the financial and environmental benefits of solar power. In fact, as many as 75% of American households cannot access rooftop solar because they rent or live in an apartment building, the financial investment is too prohibited, or they simply do not want panels on their roof.

Community solar refers to local solar farms shared by multiple community subscribers who receive credit on their electricity bills for their share of the power produced. This state program allows individual homeowners, renters, businesses, or municipalities to harness solar energy even if they cannot install solar panels directly on their properties. Community solar is an excellent way for subscribers to lower their carbon footprint and support clean, renewable energy.

Are there financial benefits of subscribing to a community solar program?

Instead of paying to install solar panels on their property, residents can subscribe to a local community solar farm – at no cost. As the farm generates clean energy, they will receive solar credits for their portion of the energy produced, resulting in monthly savings of 10% or more on their electric bills.

How can people find out if community solar is available in their area? What can they do if it's not?

Today, community solar projects are located in 39 states, plus Washington, D.C. However, only 23 states, plus Washington, D.C., have legislation that supports community solar. Nautilus Solar owns and operates community solar farms in six states, including Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, and Rhode Island, and has additional solar projects in California, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Residents are invited to visit NautilusSolar.com to find out if community solar is available in their area. If people live in an area without a community solar program, they are encouraged to advocate for a community solar program in their state by writing to their local lawmakers.

We appreciate Nautilus Solar supporting EMA's Content Creator Fund. Why is including young and diverse voices in the climate movement so critical?

Nautilus Solar believes in the power of fresh perspectives and the urgency of young passion. Including young and diverse voices in the climate movement isn't just a choice—it's a necessity. Their insights, creativity, and stake in the future enrich our collective journey toward a sustainable world. Involving a diverse range of activists ensures that policies and actions are equitable and inclusive, reflecting the needs of all communities impacted by climate issues.

Finally, what's one of the biggest misconceptions about solar energy?

One of the biggest misconceptions about solar energy is that it's only available to people who can afford to put solar panels on their roof or property. Community solar programs make it possible to access affordable solar energy, making it possible for more people to benefit from clean, renewable energy even if they can't (or prefer not to) install solar panels on their own properties. Community solar is solar for everyone.

 

Check your eligibility for community solar here.

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