Community Solar/ Battery Storage

A community solar system is a large solar power installation where multiple individuals, businesses, or organizations within a community can subscribe to a portion of the generated electricity, receiving credits on their utility bills based on their share of the power produced, essentially allowing them to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their own property; this makes solar accessible to renters, those with unsuitable roofs, or people who cannot afford a rooftop system upfront. 

• • “How to Choose the Right Community Solar Project in New York”
    • Savings: How much you can expect to save on your electricity bill
    • Cancellation terms: Whether there are any cancellation fees or penalties
    • Project location: How close the project is to your home
    • Payment model: How you’ll be billed
    • Subscription fees: Whether there are any sign-up fees
    • Provider reputation: What other customers say about the provider
    • Contract terms: Whether the contract includes consumer protections
    • Billing structure: Whether you’ll receive one or two bills
  • “Understanding New York’s Solar for All Program: Benefits and Eligibility”
    • Solar for All is a New York State utility bill assistance program. New York State is funding solar farms to benefit homeowners and renters who may not be able to access solar (clean energy). Through Solar for All, eligible New Yorkers can get the benefits of clean energy while lowering their energy costs. Click here to find out if you are eligible.
  • “The Future of Community Solar in New York: Trends and Predictions”
    • New York’s community solar program is expected to continue growing due to state and federal incentives. The goal is to install 10 gigawatts (GW) of distributed solar energy by 2030.
  • “Comparing Community Solar to Rooftop Solar in New York: Which Is Right for You?”

• • • Community solar
      A good option if you’re a renter or condo owner, or if you don’t want to pay for installation or maintenance.
    • Rooftop solar
      A good option if you own a property with a suitable roof, and you’re willing to pay for installation and maintenance.

You can also consider your location, finances, and time constraints when deciding which option is right for you.

• “Environmental Impact of Community Solar Projects in New York”
  • Community solar projects in New York have a positive environmental impact by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to their generation of clean, renewable solar energy, thereby decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to cleaner air quality; however, land use for solar farms can still impact wildlife habitats during development.