Community Solar / Net Metering
Overview
What Is Community Solar / Net Metering?
Community Solar lets multiple households and businesses share the benefits of a local solar project, without installing any panels on their own property. Through Net Metering, the clean energy produced on your behalf is converted into credits that reduce your monthly electric bill.
It’s a simple way to support renewable energy, cut costs, and participate in a cleaner grid—ideal for renters, condo owners, and anyone whose roof isn’t right for solar.
How It Works
How Community Solar / Net Metering Works
Community Solar is designed to be flexible and hassle-free. You keep your current utility, continue using electricity like you always have, and simply pay less thanks to solar credits.
Join a Local Solar Farm
Subscribe to a share of a solar project located within your utility’s service territory.
Solar Generates Power
The solar project produces clean electricity that flows into the grid and offsets fossil fuel use.
You Earn Bill Credits
Your share of production is converted into energy credits applied directly to your utility bill.
You Pay Less Each Month
You pay a discounted rate for those credits, creating guaranteed monthly savings with no interruption in service.
Why Customers Love Community Solar
Community Solar delivers the financial and environmental benefits of solar power—without installation, maintenance, or upfront cost.
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No Roof Needed
Perfect for renters, condos, shaded roofs, or anyone who can’t host panels on their property.
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Guaranteed Savings
Typical customers save 10–20% on electricity costs with predictable monthly credits.
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Clean, Local Power
Your subscription supports nearby renewable projects and helps reduce carbon emissions in your region.
Subscription Details
Simple Terms, Transparent Savings
Community Solar programs are built to be flexible and easy to understand—no surprise fees or confusing fine print.
Percent Savings
Most customers receive 10–20% savings on the value of solar credits applied to their bill.
Length of Subscription
Programs typically offer multi-year savings with the option to transfer or cancel if circumstances change.
Cancellation Policy
Many plans allow you to cancel at no cost with standard notice—no long-term penalty.
Billing
What You’ll See on Your Electric Bill
Dual, Clear Billing for Full Transparency
You’ll continue to receive your normal electric bill from your utility each month. On that bill, you’ll see solar credits that lower the amount you owe. Separately, your solar provider will bill you for those credits at a guaranteed discounted rate.
- You keep the same utility and account number.
- Solar credits reduce delivery and supply charges.
- Your total out-of-pocket cost is lower than without Community Solar.
Utility Bill (Before)
Energy Charges: $120.00
Delivery Charges: $40.00
Solar Credits: $0.00
Total Due: $160.00
Utility Bill (With Credits)
Energy Charges: $120.00
Delivery Charges: $40.00
Solar Credits: –$40.00
Total Due: $120.00
You pay a discounted rate for those $40 in credits—so your total cost drops while using the same electricity.
Service Areas and Utility Partners
GridCents LLC works with leading Community Solar developers and utility partners across multiple states. Availability may vary by location.
Massachusetts
- National Grid
- Eversource
Maine
- Central Maine Power (CMP)
- Versant
New Hampshire
- Eversource
New York
- Central Hudson
- Con Edison
- National Grid
- NYSEG
- Orange & Rockland
Rhode Island
- RI Energy
Vermont
- Green Mountain Power
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to install any equipment on my home?
No. Community Solar requires no panels, wiring, or construction on your property. All equipment is located at the solar farm.
Will my power ever be interrupted?
Not at all. Your electricity is still delivered by your utility through the existing grid, just like today.
What happens if I move?
If you move within the same utility area, you can usually transfer your subscription. Otherwise, you can cancel according to program terms.
Is there a credit check or upfront cost?
Most programs require no upfront payment and only a light qualification process. We’ll review options and find the best fit for you.