If there are no community solar projects available in your area, here are several key points and options to consider:
- Limited Availability by Location: Community solar projects currently exist in 44 states and localities in the U.S., including the District of Columbia, but some areas may not yet have projects or open subscription availability. Since over three-quarters of the market is concentrated in just a few states (Florida, New York, Massachusetts, Minnesota), availability can be sparse or nonexistent in other regions.
- Waitlists and Future Projects: If no projects are available locally right now, some providers allow you to be added to a waitlist for upcoming projects or expansions in your utility territory. Checking with local utilities or solar providers about anticipated project developments might provide early access.
- Geographic Flexibility: In some states like New York, you can subscribe to community solar projects within your utility territory rather than strictly by your immediate neighborhood, sometimes within a radius like 40 miles from your zip code, potentially increasing your options.
- No Access Alternatives: If community solar options do not exist or are unavailable to you, alternatives include installing solar panels on your own property (if feasible), switching to a green power product offered by your utility, or advocating for local community solar initiatives or enabling legislation to encourage project development in your area.
- Ongoing Growth Efforts: National and state programs aim to expand community solar access and affordability, including increasing projects that serve low- to moderate-income residents. Monitoring these programs and resources may help you find future opportunities as the market grows.
In summary, if no community solar projects are currently available in your area, you can explore waitlists, look for projects within your utility’s broader territory, consider self-generation or other green programs, and stay informed about new projects under development. The market is expanding but still unevenly distributed across states and localities.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-happens-if-there-are-no-community-solar-projects-available-in-my-area/
