Community Solar: Empowering Clean Energy Access for All

Community solar, also known as shared solar or solar gardens, is a revolutionary model of solar energy generation that allows multiple customers to access the benefits of renewable energy. This innovative approach to clean energy production has gained significant traction in recent years, offering a sustainable solution that addresses both environmental and socioeconomic challenges.

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3 MIN READ • LAST UPDATED: May 15, 2024

What Is Community Solar?

At its core, community solar involves the installation of a large solar array in a central location, such as an open field or rooftop. Individuals, businesses, or organizations can then subscribe to a portion of the solar energy generated by this array. The beauty of this model lies in its ability to provide off-site benefits, allowing subscribers to receive credits on their electric bills for the energy produced by their share of the community solar system, even if they cannot install solar panels on their own roofs.

Environmental Benefits: A Sustainable Path Forward

Community solar projects offer a multitude of environmental advantages that contribute to a more sustainable future. By generating clean energy, these initiatives directly combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. Additionally, they help conserve natural resources by reducing our reliance on finite fossil fuels and minimizing habitat disruption through the repurposing of unused land, such as former landfills or parking lots. Furthermore, solar energy requires minimal water compared to traditional power plants, contributing to the conservation of this precious resource.

Cost Savings: Accessible Clean Energy for All

One of the most significant advantages of community solar is its ability to provide cost savings for subscribers. Typically, participants can expect to save between 5% and 20% annually on their electricity costs. This financial benefit extends beyond homeowners, as community solar levels the playing field for clean energy access. Renters or those with unsuitable roofs can now participate in the renewable energy revolution, breaking down barriers that previously hindered their involvement.

Moreover, community solar projects enhance grid resilience by continuing to generate power during blackouts or extreme weather events, ensuring a reliable energy supply even in challenging circumstances.

Future Support and Growth: A Promising Outlook

Recognizing the immense potential of community solar, the U.S. Department of Energy has set an ambitious goal to power 5 million homes with this technology by 2025, representing a staggering 700% increase from 2020 levels. Federal incentives and state policies play a crucial role in expanding community solar capabilities, with more states passing legislation to support this burgeoning industry.

As of December 2023, approximately 7.3 GW of community solar is operational in the United States, spanning 43 states and Washington, D.C. This collective effort contributes significantly to our nation's clean energy portfolio, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Why Support Community Solar?

Supporting community solar initiatives is not only an environmentally responsible choice but also a socially equitable one. By ensuring that everyone, regardless of property ownership, can participate in the clean energy transition, community solar promotes energy equity and inclusivity. Additionally, local solar projects create jobs, supporting economic growth and fostering community development. Over 100,000 jobs have been created across the nation since 2019 through all of the stages of planning, development, construction, and maintenance. and supporting these initiatives will see the industry grow and create more opportunities.

By actively supporting community solar, we collectively contribute to a sustainable future, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. It is a responsible energy choice that aligns with our shared values of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

In conclusion, community solar represents a transformative approach to clean energy production, empowering individuals and communities to take an active role in the transition towards a more sustainable future. By embracing this innovative model, we can collectively address environmental challenges, promote energy equity, and pave the way for a cleaner, more resilient, and more equitable energy landscape.