Community Solar Calculator

Enter your monthly electric bill, state, community solar discount rate, annual utility rate increase, and subscription term to see your projected Community Solar savings. The Community Solar Calculator breaks down your monthly savings, reduced electric bill, total savings over the term, and estimated CO₂ reduction — so you know exactly what joining a solar garden could mean for your wallet and the planet.

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Enter your average monthly electricity bill amount.

Select your state to refine the kWh rate estimate.

Typical community solar subscriptions offer 10–25% off your electricity charges.

U.S. electricity rates have historically risen about 2–4% per year.

Choose the length of your community solar subscription.

Results

Estimated Total Savings

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Monthly Savings (Year 1)

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Reduced Monthly Bill (Year 1)

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Annual Savings (Year 1)

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Estimated CO₂ Reduction

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Est. Monthly Usage

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Cumulative Savings Over Subscription Term

Results Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is community solar and how does it work?

Community solar allows you to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on your roof. You subscribe to a share of a local solar farm, and the electricity it generates is credited to your utility account — reducing your bill by the agreed discount rate.

How much can I save with a community solar subscription?

Savings depend on your monthly electric bill, the discount rate offered by your provider (typically 10–25%), and how much utility rates rise over time. A household paying $150/month at a 10% discount saves roughly $180 in the first year — and more each year as utility rates increase.

Why does the annual utility rate increase matter?

Electricity rates in the U.S. have historically risen 2–4% per year. Because community solar credits are tied to your utility rate, your savings grow alongside rate increases — making long-term subscriptions increasingly valuable over time.

Is community solar available in my state?

Community solar programs are available in many states including Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, Delaware, Minnesota, and New Jersey, among others. Availability expands regularly as more states adopt community solar legislation.

Do I need to own my home to join a community solar program?

No — renters can join community solar programs just like homeowners. Since the solar array is located off-site at a shared solar garden, you don't need to modify your property at all. This makes community solar one of the most accessible clean energy options available.

What is the CO₂ reduction estimate based on?

The CO₂ estimate uses the U.S. EPA's average emissions factor of approximately 0.92 lbs of CO₂ per kWh of electricity generated from conventional sources. Your actual reduction depends on your local grid's energy mix and your consumption.

How is my monthly kWh usage estimated?

The calculator estimates your kWh usage from your dollar bill amount using the U.S. average residential electricity rate (approximately $0.15/kWh based on EIA data). If your state has a significantly higher or lower rate, your actual kWh usage will differ.

Are there any upfront costs to join community solar?

Most community solar subscriptions have no upfront installation costs. You simply sign a subscription agreement, and your savings appear as credits on your regular utility bill. Always review the contract terms, including any cancellation policies, before signing.

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