A community solar farm is a shared solar power installation that lets many people benefit from one solar array. It is designed to provide access to solar energy for those who may not have the means or suitable property to install solar panels on their own.
In a community solar farm, a large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) system is installed in a centralized location, such as an open field, a rooftop, or a dedicated facility.
This solar array can consist of hundreds or even thousands of solar panels, generating a significant amount of electricity. The electricity produced by the solar farm is then distributed or allocated among the community members who participate in the project.
How Does a Community Solar Farm Work?
The community solar farm is owned and operated by a developer, a utility company, or a community organization which is different from a commercial solar farm. Interested individuals can subscribe or purchase a share or portion of the solar project's electricity output. Each participant's subscription is usually based on the amount of electricity they expect to consume or a specific percentage of the solar farm's total output. Participants receive credits or virtual net metering benefits on their utility bills in proportion to their share of the solar farm. These credits represent the electricity generated by their subscribed portion of the solar array. The credits are applied to offset their electricity consumption or reduce their utility bills. The solar farm is typically connected to the electrical grid. The generated electricity is fed into the grid, and participants draw electricity from the grid as usual. The utility company tracks the participants' credits or net metering benefits and adjusts their bills accordingly. Community solar farms offer various benefits. Participants have access to clean and renewable solar energy without the need for individual solar panel installations. They can enjoy reduced electricity costs, support renewable energy generation, and contribute to a more sustainable energy system. Community solar initiatives also promote local economic development, education, and community engagement.
Advantages of a Community Solar Farm
Community solar farms offer a range of benefits, including increased access to renewable energy, cost savings, environmental sustainability, local economic growth, educational opportunities, community engagement, and grid resilience. These projects have the potential to transform energy systems and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Access to solar energy: Community solar farms provide an opportunity for individuals who cannot install solar panels on their properties to access clean and renewable solar energy. Participants can subscribe to the community solar project and receive credits or a share of the electricity generated, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and supporting sustainable energy sources.
Cost savings: By participating in a community solar farm, subscribers can save on their electricity bills. The credits or energy produced by the solar farm are typically applied to the participants' utility bills, reducing their overall energy costs. This can be particularly beneficial for those who live in rented properties or have homes unsuitable for solar panel installations.
Environmental impact: Community solar farms benefit the environment because they contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. By generating renewable energy, these projects replace electricity generated from fossil fuel sources, thereby reducing carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions. Community solar initiatives help communities transition to cleaner energy sources and promote sustainability.
Local economic development: Community solar farms can stimulate local economic growth. The development and operation of solar projects create job opportunities, from installation and maintenance to administrative roles. Moreover, these projects often support local businesses and suppliers, thereby boosting the local economy.
Education and awareness: Community solar farms provide educational opportunities and increase awareness about solar energy and its benefits. These projects can serve as educational resources for schools, colleges, and the wider community, promoting a greater understanding of renewable energy technologies and encouraging individuals to consider clean energy options for themselves.
Community engagement: Community solar farms foster community engagement and collaboration. They bring together individuals, organizations, and local governments to work towards a common goal of sustainable energy production. Community members can participate in decision-making processes, giving them a sense of ownership and empowerment.
Grid resilience: Distributed energy systems, such as community solar farms, enhance the resilience of the electricity grid. By diversifying the energy sources and locations of power generation, communities can become more resilient to power outages, natural disasters, or disruptions in the centralized grid.
What is the Difference Between Off the Grid & Behind the Meter?
When a property or location is described as "off the grid," it means that it is not connected to the centralized electrical grid provided by utility companies. Instead, the property generates its electricity, typically using renewable energy sources like solar panels, wind turbines, or generators.
Off-grid systems often incorporate energy storage solutions, such as batteries, to store excess energy for use during times when renewable sources are not generating power. Being off the grid allows individuals or communities to be self-reliant and independent of the traditional electrical infrastructure.
"Behind the meter" refers to the location of energy generation or consumption with the utility meter that measures electricity flow between the utility provider and the customer. When an energy system is behind the meter, it means that it is located on the customer's side of the meter, typically on their property.
This can include various energy technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, energy storage systems, or energy-efficient appliances.
The electricity generated or consumed by these systems is typically used on-site and can offset the electricity purchased from the utility company. Behind-the-meter systems are commonly used to reduce energy costs, increase energy independence, or promote sustainability. Interested in leasing land for a solar farm? Find your property on our map and get your free property report today:
