Renting a property has pros and cons, but many feel renting is a con when it comes to solar power. Luckily, there are various ways to get around this roadblock, even if it means discussing it with the homeowner. In this article, we explore these workarounds for renters to gain insight.
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Partner With the Homeowner
Ultimately, the homeowner has the final say on what can or cannot happen with their home. And while many renters find this discouraging, partnering with the homeowner about enhancing their property is always best. Typically, they also look for ways to improve or maintain the home, including tenant input.
If you believe the home is a great candidate for solar and have insight from the power or solar company, share this information with the homeowner to help determine if solar is a good fit for the property. Ensure you tell them the property value will increase with these investments.
Invest in Your Own Mini Panel Array
Not many are willing to invest in their panel array without seeing the annual tax incentives, but if you want to save money each month, buy your system. Attaching the panel array onto the property’s roof is probably not feasible, given it’s not your home and you own the panels.
Consider installing the array outside on the ground for convenience purposes. It’s easy to access, move, and understand when it’s within reach. Investing in your array will require time, money, and patience, but the results may be well worth the returns.
Consider a Solar Community Share
Community solar isn’t available for everyone. For some, it’s available unbeknownst to them. Look into your area to determine if it offers community solar power. This is an excellent option for renters looking to take advantage of solar energy without a significant panel investment or hassling with the homeowner.
Community solar power works by enabling you to buy community shares to participate in the energy benefits. Your shares act like a subscription. The generated power comes from the shares you pay for. Typically, shares appear on the utility bill, which helps reduce the overall expense. Some utility companies have green programs you can buy into, so you may want to partner with the utility company to learn more or whether this is an option.
Solarize Other Lifestyle Systems
Sometimes renters can’t turn to elaborate panel arrays, or their demographic doesn’t offer a community share program. Luckily, there are many other small ways to take advantage of solar energy and increase the energy efficiency of the home.
Instead of flipping the switch in the hallway or leaving it on for additional light, consider installing solar-powered light panels that activate with motion and are rechargeable with sunlight. You can also invest in a solar charging station that’ll charge batteries or additional solar devices and leave this docking station in a well-lit area. Other ways to use solar energy include using outdoor solar lights or solar-powered generators.
Many renters understand solar energy is a great attribute but fear they can’t take advantage because they don’t own the home. With these suggestions, hopefully, you can find a way to use solar power and reduce your expenses.
FAQ on Advantages of Solar Energy
Solar panels are an excellent investment for many US households, particularly those with plenty of sunlight and high utility rates. Going solar can save you hundreds of thousands of dollars in energy over the course of a system’s 25-year lifespan and increase the value of your home.
The most commonly used solar technologies for homes and businesses are solar photovoltaics for electricity, passive solar design for space heating and cooling, and solar water heating. Businesses and industries use solar technologies to diversify their energy sources, improve efficiency, and save money.
Solar energy is a renewable, inexhaustible and affordable form of energy. It can be used to cook food, heat water, and generate electricity. Furthermore, electrical energy generated from solar energy can be stored in solar cells.
Assume you were spending $200 per month on your utility company’s electricity bill before going solar. Your solar panel system can generate enough energy to meet 80% of your needs. Because you require 80% less power from the utility, your monthly electricity bill is now around $40.
1. Lead the Way. Set ambitious goals for solar energy adoption.
2. Expand Access. Develop and publicize local financing options.
3. Remove Obstacles. Eliminate red tape.
4. Be an Advocate. Partner with utilities.