Go Solar
Let’s Go Solar, TkPk!
With the growth of the solar industry in recent years, it’s time to shine a light on this wonderful renewable energy opportunity for our residents! There are options for residents to enroll in Community Solar or to install solar on your roof. The drastic decline in solar prices has made it extremely competitive, and there are now numerous financing or leasing options that make the jump to solar easier than ever!
Here’s some answers to common FAQs about solar energy:
What’s a solar co-op? How is it different from community solar or buying renewable energy?
A solar co-op involves a large group of neighbors buying and installing solar panels from one contractor in order to take advantage of bulk pricing. The City and Montgomery County collaborate with Solar United Neighbors to promote their co-op campaign, which typically gives buyers around a 17% discount on the cost of installation.
Community solar does not require any installation of solar panels on your property, and sources solar power from a local project.
Renewable energy is any type of power that is not generated by fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, or gas. Solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass are some examples of renewable energy sources. The difference between community solar and buying any kind of renewable energy is that some renewable energy may not be locally sourced or may be a different kind of power, such as wind.
What is community solar?
Community Solar is a way to buy locally sourced solar power that doesn’t involve installing any panels on your house. The company connects you with solar projects in your area and provides you with clean energy through your normal utility. One such company is Neighborhood Sun, a community solar organization based in Maryland.
How is it different from Pepco service?
Normally, the energy you purchase from Pepco comes from coal or other fossil fuels. Even though Pepco will still be your utility provider when you sign up for community solar, your power will come from renewable energy instead of fossil fuels.
Quick Links
Recap from the Go Solar TkPk Event on Tuesday, March 12, 2024
7:00-9:00 PM, City Auditorium
It featured details on the upcoming solar co-op campaign with Solar United Neighbors, offered information on community solar from Neighborhood Sun, and information on clean energy options overall. This was an interactive event for anyone interested in, thinking about, or planning for solar and we will hold more sessions in the future. Thanks to all who participated!
Couldn’t make it to the event? No problem! Click here for the webinar recording.
**We also held an event on this topic in 2019! For more information, check out the recording below:
https://www.youtube.com/live/oIkHyMBDi-I?si=RqND5BtZZpV2N_bW
