Rooftop Solar vs. Community Solar

Clean Energy For Everyone

Not everyone can install solar panels on their roof. If you rent an apartment, live in a condo, have a roof heavily shaded by ancient oak trees, or have a roof that needs to be replaced soon, traditional rooftop solar isn't an option. Enter Community Solar.

Rooftop Solar

You purchase (or lease) a physical solar array installed directly on your property.

• The Benefits: Maximum financial savings. You generate your own power, insulating yourself completely from utility rate hikes. You own an asset that increases your property value and allows you to claim the 30% Federal ITC. You can add a battery for backup power during outages.
• The Drawbacks: Requires a large upfront investment or taking on debt. You are responsible for maintenance (if owned). You must have a suitable roof.

Community Solar

A community solar farm is a large solar array built in a nearby field or on a large commercial roof. As a resident, you "subscribe" to a portion of that farm's energy output.

• How It Works: The farm generates electricity and sends it to the local grid. Your utility company credits your electric bill for the power generated by your share of the farm. You then pay the community solar company a subscription fee for that power at a discounted rate.
• The Benefits: Zero upfront cost. No installation, no construction, no maintenance, and no long-term debt. Renters and apartment dwellers can participate. You simply sign up and typically save 5% to 15% on your annual electricity costs.
• The Drawbacks: Savings are minimal compared to rooftop solar (10% savings vs. potentially 100% savings). You do not own any assets, you cannot claim tax credits, and community solar does not provide backup power during grid outages. Availability is highly dependent on state legislation.

Which is Right For You?

Choose Rooftop Solar if: You own a single-family home with a viable roof, have tax liability to use the ITC, and want to maximize your long-term financial savings and home value.

Choose Community Solar if: You are a renter, you plan to move in the next year, you do not have the capital or credit for rooftop solar, or your roof is too shaded/old for a physical installation, but you still want to support clean energy and get a modest discount on your bill.