When it comes to solar installation, great teamwork can make a difference; this is also true in the case of community solar farms. There may be no greater example of collective success with solar than solar co-ops. Completely free to join, becoming a solar co-op member opens up further opportunities to take advantage of affordable solar energy. Here’s what you should know about solar co-ops and how they may benefit your solar installation decisions moving forward!
What is a Solar Co-Op?
A solar co-op refers to a group of individuals, businesses, or both who work together to meet their energy needs; this type of communal energy cultivation results in bulk discounts that help all the involved consumers save money. Co-ops are usually free to join and completely member-managed. Thus, if you choose to become a member, the solar co-op will provide you with a bid from a solar installer selected from the group and time to determine whether you’d like to move forward with the installation.
Solar Co-Op vs. Community Solar
At first glance, solar co-ops and community solar appear to be very similar to one another. However, there are distinct differences that set them apart. Community solar refers to a purchasing plan that allows homeowners to buy a certain part of a solar panel array. This small solar farm provides energy for a specific residential area. Alternatively, co-ops are an affordable payment option for homeowners concerned about the upfront installation costs of a solar panel system.
How Does it Work?
Co-ops are almost always free to join, there’s no obligation to install solar panels, and the co-op regions may cover many counties in your area. The formation process can take several months, depending on the solar co-op’s location. Nevertheless, once a co-op manages to form at least 30 members, they select a solar installation company and negotiate an affordable price. The rest of the process discusses installation logistics and whether or not certain members choose to follow through with solar panel installation.
-Learn About the Incredible Engineering of a SolarEdge Inverter–
Benefits of Joining a Solar Co-Op
One of the most appealing aspects of a co-op is its affordable installation options for people who are still interested in going solar but may not have the capital to install a system of their own. Solar co-ops are flexible for people who don’t want to feel pressured into investing in solar panels or live further away from the co-op’s neighborhood. Solar co-ops are a community effort working together to create affordable solar installation options for all residents.
As a premier Texas solar installation company, we’re happy to answer any questions you have about solar. Sunshine Renewable Solutions prides itself on being one of the best solar companies in Texas, and we love educating anyone who wants to learn more about solar energy!
Contact us to learn more about our solar installation services!
