April 10, 2020
With roof space at a premium in New York City, many people are unable to install solar panels on their property. In fact, even if you do have adequate roof space, shadows from trees and other obstructions can prohibit you from going solar. Thankfully, there is an alternative option that provides all the usual benefits of solar power with a lot more flexibility—community solar.
What is Community Solar?
Community solar refers to a shared solar project which is open to multiple subscribers. This means that subscribers can avail of the benefits of solar energy without the need for an installation on their own property. Subscribers sign up for a community solar project in their area and receive bill credits proportional to their share of the project. For a quick introduction to New York community solar, check out our explainer video below.
Community Solar Benefits
A community solar subscription offers all the usual benefits of solar power, with some added flexibility.
No installation: This is the unique benefit of community solar. There’s no need to install solar panels on your own property.
Save money: Not only will you save on the expenses associated with a rooftop installation, you’ll also receive energy credits each month, which are then applied to your utility bill.
Adjust based on usage: You can adjust the number of panels you are subscribed to, based on your changing energy usage and electricity needs.
Easy to transfer: If you decide to move, your solar company will assist you in finding a different community solar subscription in your new area.
Environmentally friendly: With a subscription to community solar, you’ll be doing your part for the environment—supporting clean, renewable energy and reducing your carbon footprint.
Community Solar Eligibility
This is primarily dependent on your utility rate. If your utility rate is residential, small non-residential, or religious, you’re likely eligible to sign up for community solar. As for the specific projects you are eligible for, this depends on your location. In order to subscribe to a project, you must be located in the same utility territory/”load zone” as the project itself. Thankfully, New York City offers a number of excellent community solar subscriptions, including The Pitkin Project, YSG Solar’s East Brooklyn community solar garden.
The Pitkin Project
YSG Solar is developing a new community solar garden in East Brooklyn—The Pitkin Project. The project is open to subscribers from all New York City boroughs. If you're a residential energy user in any of the following locations, then get in touch and learn more about a community solar subscription with YSG.
The Bronx
Brooklyn
Manhattan
Queens
Staten Island
If you’re interested in New York community solar, contact YSG Solar today. YSG will assist you in finding the ideal community solar subscription in your area. Send us an email, or call at 212.389.9215 to get started.
By Shane Croghan
Sources:
https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/NY-Sun/Solar-for-Your-Home/Community-Solar