Now that spring is upon us, there is another type of garden to consider. Often referred to as “community solar gardens” or “community solar farms”, these projects are renewable energy plants whose electricity is shared by more than one household, and provide the opportunity for you to go green in the garden, even if your thumb is not.
How does a community solar garden work?
Community solar projects can be owned by the members of the community they serve, or by a third party, including the utility or a charitable non-profit organization and allow participants to benefit from the solar farm without having to install solar panels on their home or property. Members share the electricity generated, at a cost which is typically less than the price they would pay their utility.
Can I purchase the electricity from the community solar garden without buying into the project?
Community solar project models vary according to the motives of the communities. The two most generalized avenues of participation are:
Ownership: Participants own a section of panels or shares which allows them to benefit from all power produced by their share
Subscription: Participants can become subscribers and pay a potentially lower price for electricity generated from the solar farm without owning the panels
What is not a community solar project?
Group Purchasing: Group purchasing offers the residents in a specific area the opportunity to purchase their own solar panels at a group or bulk rate through a solar installation company, which doesn’t result in a community project with shared benefits
Green Tariffs: An agreement allowing the customers of a utility to purchase electricity sources from a renewable energy generation wind or solar plant, typically at a premium rate, and not providing the community with shared benefits
Online Investment Platforms: Buying in on a new solar power system installation through an online investment platform where the power generated by the farm does not impact the participant’s electricity bill or include shared benefits for the community
How can I find out more about community solar projects?
What can I do if I want to “go green”, but a community solar project isn’t an option?
If you’re interested in renewable energy or considering enrolling in a renewable energy price plan, AEP Energy ECO-Advantage® is for you! Click here to see all of our price plan options!
Another way to ease into going green instead of jumping headfirst into the deep end is updating your home with energy-efficient products. AEP Energy Reward StoreSM is our one-stop online marketplace filled with a variety of energy-saving and connected-home products for your home. You can earn Reward Dollars to use in Reward Store by enrolling on an AEP Energy price plan. Visit Reward Store to find out more!
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May is National Electrical Safety Month Each year, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) presents May as National Electrical Safety Month to promote electrical safety at home and in the workplace and reduce the number of electrically related fires and accidents. According to the ESFI, an estimated 51,000 residential fires are caused by an electrical …
Springtime is a great season to focus on electrical safety both inside and outside your home. Many electrical fires can be prevented by following simple safety practices involving a combination of routine maintenance, the proper use of electrical devices, and education of potential fire hazards. Here are some tips to help you ensure a safe …
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Brandi Nye, Managing Director of Business Solutions
Brandi is an expert in her field with professional experience in the sustainability industry. Not only does Brandi have solid base knowledge, but she continues to grow her acumen through various learning and development experiences. Brandi is a creative and thoughtful utility professional with expertise in regulatory and utility operations.