SunShare, a residential community solar developer, is constructing three new community solar systems, totaling 12 MW, which are expected to start operation in 2021 and will produce enough solar energy to power 3,000 Colorado homes. SunShare has also created new subscription options designed specifically to broaden residential access to clean energy without rooftop panels.

Homes that subscribe to these new gardens will have the option of a one-year subscription, outside of the industry-standard 20-year agreement, as well as the ability to waive the traditionally-required credit check by enrolling in Autopay. These new offers are designed to increase community solar participation by groups who may have previously been hesitant about the long-term commitment, like renters or college students who are looking for more flexibility in how they participate in renewable energy programs, the company stated in a press release.

SunShare has also streamlined its enrollment process with a redesigned website that allows residents to subscribe online with just a few clicks. And they have a new referral program that offers subscribers and their friends and family gift cards to local businesses that have suffered impacts from COVID-19, or donations to non-profits.

“We’re putting more power in the hands of consumers,” said Corrina Kumpe, COO of SunShare. “With these improvements, we’re able to fulfill the spirit of community solar by expanding access to everyone and reinvesting in the local communities we serve.”

Community solar is an option to participate in solar energy for homes with unfit rooftops or for renters, and previous obstacles like contract length and credit checks limited the percentage of those homes who wanted to participate. Residents can take their subscriptions with them if they move to another location within SunShare’s expanding service territory in both Colorado and Minnesota.

“SunShare has always been committed to residential community solar, and we are thrilled to be able to expand our offerings so that more people in our home state of Colorado can benefit from clean, renewable energy,” Kumpe said.

News item from SunShare