Community Solar Initiatives
Solarize
Solarize campaigns are a grassroots effort to increase the number of solar electric (PV) installations in a focused neighborhood or community using community volunteers, active local government, and local non-profit programs to capitalize on the purchasing power of a community and motivates the residents by offering significant savings through a limited-time bulk purchase opportunity that also removes other common market barriers. Case studies in other communities have shown a 20 – 40% discount on solar installations for participants. In addition, Solarize programs provide jobs and spur the market for ongoing growth in the local solar industry.
Community Solar NY is a new effort under NY-Sun to make solar easier and more affordable through community-driven initiatives. NYSERDA is supporting these initiatives by providing technical assistance, marketing materials, and funding.
Residential solar array installed through the Solarize Syracuse program
Using NYSERDA funding, the CNY RPDB partnered with dozens of municipalities and community-based organizations on the 2015 and 2016-17 Solarize CNY programs. Solarize CNY has made it easier and more affordable than ever to use solar energy. Building on the successful Solarize Madison and Solarize Syracuse campaigns, the Solarize CNY campaigns were open to residents and businesses throughout Central New York, including Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego Counties, who were interested in installing solar PV on their property.
Using grassroots outreach and a pricing structure that provided substantial discounts to participating customers, the two Solarize CNY campaigns enrolled close to 1,400 people for a free, no obligation solar site assessment. Working with its local partners, the CNY RPDB organized public workshops throughout the region for both Solarize CNY campaigns, and held educational "lunch 'n learn" presentations during the most recent campaign. Solarize customers had the opportunity to purchase their solar PV systems at below-market prices, thanks to the collective purchasing power of their neighbors.
Community Solar
How It Works
Community solar projects are an array of solar panels installed in a sunny, offsite location. Community solar allows you benefits from solar without installing panels on your home.
Contact
For questions about Community Solar or to request a paper application, please email amazzoni@cnyrpdb.org.