In 2023, an impressive 800,000 Americans made the switch to solar energy. With rising financial pressures and increasing demands on the U.S. electricity grid, more people are exploring solar energy as a way to manage their energy consumption. But what about those who can’t install solar panels on their rooftops—like renters, condo dwellers, or lower-income households? Is solar energy still within their reach?
Enter Community Solar! 🌞
Community solar provides a solution for those who are unable—or prefer not to—install solar panels on their own property. These projects are made up of large, off-site solar facilities that allow multiple households and businesses to participate. By subscribing to a local solar farm, participants receive a credit on their electricity bills for their share of the energy produced. It’s like having your own personal energy reserve, without the need for panels on your roof!
One of the key benefits of community solar is its accessibility. The subscription model eliminates upfront costs, making solar energy more attainable, particularly for those in multifamily housing, rental properties, and lower-income brackets. Plus, by supporting local solar projects, subscribers help strengthen the resilience of their community’s electrical grid.
These projects are typically managed by a third-party organization that works closely with utility companies to distribute solar energy efficiently. More and more, businesses and community organizations, like churches, are getting involved, bringing the benefits of community solar to a wider audience.
The beauty of community solar is that it’s inclusive—if you have a utility bill, you qualify. There’s no need to switch your current electric company, and participation is as easy as signing up. By joining a community solar project, you’re not just saving on your electricity bills—you’re contributing to a more sustainable future for everyone.
Interested in learning more? Schedule a call with a member of our team! We appreciate your help in supporting renewable energy and sustainability in Maryland.