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Going solar as a renter
Want to go solar, but either rent your home or live in a multi-unit property? Community solar is often your best bet to enjoy the benefits of solar without owning your roof space.
Common questions
Is it impossible to install a rooftop solar panel system as a renter?
No! Not impossible – but you will need permission from the owner of the building. Because solar panel systems last decades, it also doesn’t make sense for you to invest in a solar panel install for a property you may only stay in temporarily. Alternatively, you could convince your landlord to make the investment, but unless they’re currently covering electric bills for the building, there’s not a huge financial motivation for them to do so.
As a renter, can I get quotes on EnergySage to show my landlord?
We recommend either asking your landlord to register on their own or at least getting permission before requesting solar quotes on their behalf. This will help save installers time and ensure they have some sort of interest from the decision maker before generating a quote.
Does community solar offer the same financial benefit as rooftop solar?
No – generally, people who install solar panels on their property will save more money than those who join a community solar farm. That said, community solar is a great, low-commitment way to support local clean energy while still saving on electricity. Most community solar subscribers save between 5-15% on their annual electricity costs – all without installing equipment, paying upfront costs, or dealing with any maintenance.
Is community solar available everywhere?
Unfortunately, no – but more and more states are passing laws to build community solar programs each day! On our Community Solar Marketplace, you can enter your zip code to see if there are any open solar farms near you. If we don’t have any listed in your area, you can sign up to receive an email notification as new projects go live.