If you're a renter, you've probably assumed solar energy isn't an option for you. You don't own the roof. Your landlord isn't going to pay for panels. And even if they did, you might move before you see any savings. It's a valid frustration — but it's based on a misunderstanding of how solar actually works today.
Rooftop solar requires a roof you own. Community solar requires none of that. And in 23 states, renters are already using it to knock 10–25% off their electric bills every single month.
Why Rooftop Solar Doesn't Work for Renters
Traditional rooftop solar installations require you to own your home, have a suitable south-facing roof with minimal shade, qualify for a solar loan or lease, and be willing to live at the same address for 10–25 years to recoup the upfront investment. The average rooftop system costs $15,000–$30,000 before incentives. Even with the federal tax credit, it's a massive commitment that makes zero sense for renters.
What Is Community Solar and How Does It Help Renters?
Community solar is a shared solar farm — a large installation located somewhere in your state — that multiple subscribers share. You subscribe to a portion of its output, and your utility credits your account every month based on how much electricity your share generated.
You don't touch your apartment. You don't ask your landlord for permission. You don't need to own anything. You just sign up with your existing utility account, and your bill gets smaller.
✅ Renters can sign up for community solar in minutes using nothing but their utility account number. No landlord permission required.
Renters vs. Homeowners: How Community Solar Compares
| Feature | Renters | Homeowners |
|---|---|---|
| Can sign up | Yes | Yes |
| Requires roof ownership | No | No |
| Upfront cost | $0 | $0 |
| Installation at home | None | None |
| Can cancel when moving | Yes (60–90 days notice) | Yes (60–90 days notice) |
| Typical savings | 10–25% | 10–25% |
What Happens When You Move?
This is the most common question renters ask. The answer: most community solar subscriptions can be cancelled with 60–90 days notice and no penalties. If you move within the same utility territory — which is common in cities — you can often keep your subscription at your new address. If you move out of territory, you simply cancel.
We only match renters to programs with clear, fair cancellation terms. We won't recommend a program that locks you into a multi-year contract with stiff penalties.
What You Need to Sign Up
The requirements are minimal:
- An active electric bill in your name (not included in rent)
- A utility account in a participating state
- Your account number (found on any bill)
- About 3 minutes
If your electricity is included in your rent, community solar won't work for you directly — though you could ask your landlord to subscribe for the building. In many states, landlords are increasingly doing exactly that to offer lower-cost utilities as a competitive amenity.
Which States Allow Renters to Join Community Solar?
Community solar is open to renters in all 23 states where it operates, including California, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey, Oregon, and more. The key requirement isn't ownership — it's simply having an active utility account in your name in an eligible territory.
How Much Will I Actually Save?
On an average electric bill of $120/month, a 15% discount saves you $18/month or $216/year. On a $200 bill, that same rate saves $360 per year. The exact discount depends on your state program and the farm you're matched to — we show you the guaranteed rate before you commit.
There's no catch, no hidden fees, and no bill surprises. You simply pay less for the same electricity you're already using.