Community Solar vs. Rooftop Solar
Are you looking to tap into renewable energy but unsure whether to choose community solar or rooftop solar? Let's compare both options to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Community Solar
Community solar is a system where several households or businesses pool their money to finance a centralized solar power plant. This plant generates electricity that is sold to subscribers who can then use it to power their homes or facilities. The subscribers don't need to install solar panels on their roofs, making it ideal for renters, property owners with shaded roofs, or those who don't want to make the upfront investment and maintenance costs of solar panel installation.
But how does community solar compare in terms of cost and energy savings? The size and location of the solar power plant determine the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). In some cases, community solar can provide electricity at a lower rate than rooftop solar due to economies of scale. For instance, a community solar project in Minnesota, the US, currently sells electricity at 10 cents per kWh compared to the state's average of 13.7 cents per kWh. That's a 27% saving!
On the other hand, community solar subscribers typically pay a fee to join, which can range from $0 to $200 depending on the project. They also sign a contract committing them to buy a certain amount of electricity for a specific period that can range from 10 to 25 years. While this may not be suitable for some, it provides a long-term stable source of electricity that is unaffected by fluctuations in energy prices.
Rooftop Solar
Rooftop solar, as the name implies, is a system where solar panels are installed on the roof of a building. The panels generate electricity that is used to power the building or sent back to the grid for credit. Rooftop solar has become popular in recent years due to declining panel prices, tax credits, and incentives offered by government and utility companies.
The cost of rooftop solar installation varies depending on the size and quality of the system, location, and local incentives. On average, a rooftop solar system in the US can cost between $10,000 and $25,000. However, homeowners can recoup their investment through energy savings and tax credits over time. In fact, the average US homeowner who installs a rooftop solar system can save between $10,000 and $30,000 over 20 years.
Rooftop solar also provides homeowners with the flexibility to generate their electricity and control their energy usage. This is perfect for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money in the long run. However, not all rooftops may be suitable for solar panel installation, especially those that are shaded, face the wrong direction, or have a steep slope. Achieving maximum efficiency in energy generation needs an optimal roof size and floor space.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, a brief comparison of community solar and rooftop solar. Each option has its pros and cons, and it's up to you to decide which one best meets your energy needs and budget. Whether you opt for community solar and enjoy the shared benefit of the centralized plant or install a rooftop solar system and benefit from the long-term energy savings, rest assured you are reducing your carbon footprint.
References
- RMI - Getting to Equitable Community Solar
- MN Community Solar - What is Community Solar?
- Solar Reviews - 2021 Solar Panel Cost: Avg. Solar Panel Prices by State
- Energy Sage - How much do solar panels cost?
- Energy Sage - How much can you save with solar panels?