There are many different types of shared solar projects. NREL, RMI, and Community solar are just a few examples. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. In addition, there are many different structures for shared solar across 26 states. Shared solar is a business model that lets customers “subscribe” to a specific amount of energy and capacity. In return, they receive credit on their utility bills for their power.
Table of Contents
Community Solar
There are two types of solar community projects: Purchase Models and Subscription Models. In the former case, residents own solar panels off-site and subscribe to the system, receiving an appropriate percentage of the electricity produced by the solar farm. A purchase model requires a significant upfront investment, and a subscription model allows residents to pay only a fraction of the total cost of power generated by the solar farm. The solar community model allows subscribers to save money while contributing to the system’s sustainability.
Community solar projects are similar to private solar projects, but there is no upfront cost. They allow new communities to use solar energy without incurring any upfront costs. These projects require participants to have 700+ FICO credit scores and at least a 20% down payment. These projects can also be helpful for first-time home buyers who are worried about the initial investment. While the solar community model may sound like a great idea, it’s important to remember that the financial benefits of these systems diminish over time.
LICS
The LICs share the cost of energy and produce net metering credits. These credits are sold on the energy exchange, and the participating households benefit from the increased energy independence. They also purchase electricity and net metering credits from the participating utilities. The LICs are supported by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. LIC projects are categorized by utility territory and will be updated regularly. If you are interested in participating in a LICS Shared Solar Project, here are some things to keep in mind.
These shared solar models can increase access to solar for low-income households and renters. They can maximize the siting potential of the area and reduce costs. They can also facilitate participation in smaller increments, making financial commitment easier. Moreover, participants can quickly transfer their subscriptions if they move elsewhere. In addition, LICS Shared Solar Projects bring clean energy to communities that may not otherwise benefit from it.
Perch Energy
There are several benefits to solar community projects. Among them are cost-effectiveness, lower operating costs, and more excellent choices. The company has raised $7.2 million in new funding, and Bruce Stewart has played a pivotal role in securing the investment. The company plans to use the funds to expand its operations and broaden its product offering aggressively. Read on to learn more about community solar and the benefits it provides to its customers.
Perch Energy’s community solar services platform is built on a unique subscription model. Each customer pays for credits generated by the solar project in exchange for a monthly subscription fee. This subscription produces $100 worth of solar credits each month, and the utility pays Perch $90 instead of the usual $100. In addition, the credits offset the entire monthly electric bill, so the customer saves $10 every month. And what’s more, subscribers earn credit for every dollar they spend.
Investor-Owned Utilities
Utility-led programs will continue to grow in the US, thanks to the strong demand for solar energy and innovative program design. Electric utilities are exploring various paths to bring solar to their customers, including community solar programs. Such programs enable customers without sufficient roof space or strong credit ratings to purchase solar power. In addition, they provide a low-risk opportunity to build solar assets, which benefits both utilities and consumers. Listed below are four reasons why utilities should partner with community solar programs.
First, Community shared solar projects must have at least ten subscribers, each earning 1,000 kWh per year in net-metered credits. Furthermore, the credits can’t exceed any subscriber’s historical average annual consumption. Additionally, subscribers with an average monthly peak of 25kW can’t account for 40% of the project’s total credits. Thus, it is essential for Community shared solar projects to find an investor-owned utility partner to benefit from federal tax credits.