The development and progress of community solar farms across the country is currently the fastest growing segment of the solar industry.
The general public can subscribe to these local, clean-energy arrays, helping lower carbon emissions in their community and lowering their individual utility bills.
Every year, more states are adopting programs and passing legislation to make solar farms a reality. While this is exciting, you may be wondering, ‘Do I qualify?’
The great news is that community solar allows a large majority of the population to go solar. If you pay your own utility bill, you likely qualify.
Here are some things to think about, so you can know if you can save too!
Businesses: Depending on the program, certain business accounts are restricted from participating in Community Solar, in favor of more residential customers being able to join and save. However, a majority of small business would still qualify to participate depending on what type of service you have from the utility.
Credit Requirements: Most Community Solar projects will have a credit score requirement in order to participate. The minimum score is typically 600-650 and up in order to qualify, and its checked through a soft pull. This is a formality for investors in the solar farm to ensure their project is protected moving forward and subscribers pay their bills on time.
We believe a more important factor than your credit score is your positive payment history with your current utility provider. Common Energy works to make this a primary factor in your eligibility and to ensure as many people as possible can go solar!
Where do you live?: Currently, in order to participate in a community solar program, you must live in the same region as the Community Solar project and be a customer of the same electric utility that has connected the project to the grid.
The great news is, new projects are coming online everyday, meaning there is a great chance you will be able to participate now or in the very near future.
Rooftop Solar: Depending on the state, If you have already installed a rooftop solar system on your home you would not be able to add additional energy from a community solar farm.
However, in states like Massachusetts, you can actually “double dip” and join a community solar farm as well!
If you’re still not sure if you qualify, just ask! You can reach us at hello@commonenergy.us. We are always happy to chat about community solar and your options to make a positive impact on the environment! If you’re ready to go solar now, you can signup at commonenergy.us in less than five minutes.
