The future of energy is shifting toward localized and sustainable solutions, and community-scale solar is emerging as a key driver of this transition. Unlike large utility-scale solar farms that generate power for the grid or small rooftop installations that serve individual homes, community-scale solar offers a middle-ground solution that enables multiple households, businesses, and public institutions to share the benefits of solar energy.
At Ansgar Solar, we collaborate with developers to deliver cost-effective, community-scale solar solutions, ensuring energy independence and long-term sustainability for municipalities. By optimizing land leasing strategies and designing customized solar installations, we help communities harness solar power in a manner that meets their specific needs.
This article explores the concept of community-scale solar, its benefits, and its growing role in the clean energy landscape.
Understanding Community-Scale Solar
Community-scale solar, also known as mid-scale solar, refers to photovoltaic (PV) projects that are larger than residential rooftop installations but smaller than utility-scale solar farms. These projects typically range in capacity from 1 to 20 megawatts (MW) and can serve a broad customer base, from local governments to individual households.
A community solar project can be structured in two primary ways:
- Community-Owned Solar: Residents and organizations collectively own and operate the solar installation, sharing energy production and cost savings.
- Subscription-Based Solar: Households and businesses subscribe to a portion of the solar project and receive credits on their electricity bills without having to install panels on their properties.
This model provides flexibility and broadens solar access, particularly for those who may not have the financial resources or roof space for individual solar panel installations.
The Growing Adoption
The adoption of community-scale solar is increasing nationwide, driven by its economic and environmental benefits..
Several factors contribute to the rise:
- Cost Efficiency: Shared solar installations provide lower electricity rates compared to traditional power sources.
- Energy Independence: Generating power locally reduces reliance on large utility companies and fossil fuel-based energy.
- Environmental Impact: Community solar helps reduce carbon emissions and supports the transition to clean energy.
- Policy Support: Government initiatives and tax incentives are making it easier for communities to invest in solar energy.
These benefits position community-scale solar as a practical and sustainable solution for towns and municipalities seeking long-term energy resilience.
How Community-Scale Solar Operates
Community-scale solar projects function by generating electricity from centralized solar arrays located on:
- Underutilized land such as brownfields and landfills
- School and municipal properties
- Privately leased commercial spaces
- Open farmland
Once operational, the solar energy is fed into the local power grid, allowing community members to receive credits on their energy bills through virtual net metering. This approach makes solar power accessible to individuals who may not have the ability to install their own rooftop panels.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, community solar programs are particularly effective in expanding solar access to renters, low-income households, and small businesses, ensuring that clean energy is available to a wider demographic.
Ansgar Solar’s Role in Community-Scale Solar Projects
At Ansgar Solar, we specialize in the development and implementation of community-scale solar projects. Our expertise includes:
- Strategic Land Leasing: We assist developers and municipalities in identifying and securing optimal land locations that maximize solar efficiency.
- Customized Solar Installations: We design solar systems tailored to each community’s specific energy needs and infrastructure requirements.
- Partnerships with Developers and Municipalities: Our collaborative approach ensures seamless project execution and long-term sustainability.
- Advancing Local Energy Independence: We are committed to providing communities with reliable and cost-effective solar energy solutions.
Through these efforts, we contribute to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure while supporting local economic development.
Key Benefits of Community-Scale Solar
- Cost Savings for Residents and Businesses
By participating in solar programs, households and businesses can lower their electricity bills without the upfront investment required for individual solar panel installations. The economies of scale associated with shared solar projects enable cost savings for all participants.
- Enhanced Energy Resilience
Locally generated solar power strengthens grid reliability by reducing reliance on centralized power plants. Many community-scale solar projects incorporate battery storage systems to provide backup energy during grid outages.
- Greater Accessibility to Solar Energy
Community solar programs offer a solution for renters, businesses, and homeowners who may not have the financial means or suitable property conditions for rooftop solar. By removing these barriers,solar expands renewable energy access to a larger population.
- Environmental Benefits
Transitioning to solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves air quality, and mitigates the environmental impact of fossil fuel-based electricity generation. A 10 MW community solar project can offset the carbon emissions equivalent to burning over 10 million pounds of coal annually.
- Economic and Workforce Development
Community-scale solar projects create jobs in solar installation, maintenance, and project management. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), as of 2023 the solar industry currently employs over 250,000 workers in the United States, many of whom support community-scale solar projects.
The Future of Community-Scale Solar
As solar technology advances, the efficiency and affordability of solar are expected to improve. Key trends shaping the future of community solar include:
- Integration of Solar + Storage: Battery storage solutions will enhance the reliability of solar power by enabling energy availability during non-sunlight hours.
- Agrivoltaics: The combination of solar energy generation with agricultural practices allows land to be used for both food production and renewable energy.
- Expansion of Community Microgrids: Self-sustaining microgrids will allow neighborhoods to manage their own energy use and further reduce dependence on large utility providers.
- State and Federal Policy Support: Continued incentives and regulatory frameworks will facilitate the growth of community solar initiatives.
Given these advancements, solar will continue to play a significant role in the clean energy transition.
Why Now is the Time to Invest
With the availability of state and federal incentives, there has never been a better time for communities to explore solar. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has expanded tax credits for renewable energy projects, making solar power even more financially viable.
At Ansgar Solar, we are committed to delivering innovative and scalable solar solutions that benefit both the environment and local economies. Our team is ready to assist municipalities, developers, and businesses in transitioning to clean energy.
For more information about how Ansgar Solar can support your community-scale solar project, contact us today.