Communities
Community solar
Community solar, also known as distributed generation solar or solar gardens, is a solar power model that allows multiple individuals or organizations to share the benefits of a single solar energy system to receive a discounted rate on their utility bill. Unlike traditional rooftop solar installations, which require individual property ownership or suitable rooftop space, community solar projects enable broader access to solar energy for communities, regardless of property ownership or rooftop suitability.
How does Community Solar work?
Shared Ownership: In a community solar project, multiple participants, often referred to as subscribers, can purchase or lease a portion of the solar energy system’s capacity. This allows renters, homeowners with shaded roofs, or those unable to afford upfront installation costs to access solar energy benefits.
Off-Site Solar Arrays: Community solar projects are typically located off-site, either on a shared piece of land or as part of a larger solar farm. The solar arrays generate electricity, which is then fed into the grid. Subscribers receive credits on their utility bills based on their share of the solar energy produced, reducing their electricity costs.
How will Community solar Benefit my local community?
Initial Assessment: We begin by evaluating the suitability of your land for solar projects, considering factors like location, size, and solar potential.
Environmental Benefits: Like utility-scale solar projects, community solar contributes to environmental sustainability by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By generating clean, renewable energy, community solar projects help mitigate climate change, improve air quality, and conserve natural resources.
Local Economic Development: Community solar projects can stimulate local economic development by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and generating revenue for host communities. These projects often involve local contractors, installers, and suppliers, contributing to job creation and economic growth in the region.
Community Engagement: Community solar projects foster community engagement and collaboration by bringing together individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and local governments to support renewable energy initiatives. Community members can participate in project development, provide input on project design, and share in the benefits of clean energy production. Businesses that participate in either hosting community solar arrays or subscribing to the offtake can also engage with the local community through effective marketing campaigns to promote the distribution of renewable energy.
Educational Opportunities: Community solar projects provide educational opportunities for community members to learn about renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency, and sustainable living practices. These projects raise awareness about the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy and empower communities to act towards a more sustainable future.
Overall, community solar represents a scalable and inclusive approach to solar energy deployment, offering environmental, economic, and social benefits to communities while advancing the transition to a clean energy future
Work with Trina Solar Development Solutions to develop a Community Solar project.
TSDS is dedicated to expanding access to community solar projects in various regions throughout the United States. Community solar markets vary in their incentives and policies on a regional basis. TSDS has community solar markets vary in their incentives and policies on a regional basis. TSDS has a community solar Origination team that is active in every community solar market throughout the U.S.
Interested in co-developing or building a community solar project on your property with TSDS? Please contact us for more information!