How to Enroll in a Community Solar Program in New York
Community solar offers New Yorkers a practical and accessible way to benefit from renewable energy without the need for rooftop installations. Whether you're a renter, homeowner, or small business owner, enrolling in a community solar program can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills while supporting local clean energy initiatives.
One note about enrolling in community solar – it will not change your utility or electricity supplier if you join a community solar program. It is a virtual program or “subscription,” which means you will continue to receive the same service as you did before, just with savings.
What Is Community Solar?
Community solar allows multiple customers to subscribe to a single solar array, often referred to as a solar farm. Instead of installing panels on your property, you receive credits on your electricity bill for your share of the energy produced by the solar farm. This model is especially beneficial for those who cannot install solar panels due to roof constraints, shading issues, or rental agreements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enroll in Community Solar with PureSky Energy
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
- If you pay your own electricity bill in New York, chances are you're eligible to enroll with PureSky Energy. Whether you're a renter, homeowner, small business, nonprofit, or religious organization—you can take advantage of community solar.
✔️ No rooftop required
✔️ No credit checks for most plans
✔️ Available to customers of major utilities like National Grid, RG&E, NYSEG, and more.
Before enrolling, make sure your utility provider is one of the partners PureSky works with. You can check this directly on the PureSky Energy website.
2. Check Availability in Your Area
PureSky Energy offers community solar projects across many parts of New York State.To find available projects:
- Visit PureSky’s Community Solar Page
- Enter your ZIP code and utility provider
- We’ll match you to a solar farm which has available spots in your utility.
PureSky works with NYSERDA and other trusted partners to ensure your project is certified and reliable.
What Does Community Solar Include:
- Guaranteed monthly savings
- No long-term contract
- Free and easy cancellation
- No upfront fees
3. Enroll Online in Minutes
Signing up is simple and secure:- Provide your utility account information
- Review and sign the subscription agreement digitally
Enrollment usually takes 5–10 minutes and there’s no interruption to your power service. You’ll continue receiving electricity through your regular utility company—PureSky just helps you pay less for it.
4. Start Saving on Your Electric Bill
Once your subscription becomes active (usually within 1–3 billing cycles), you’ll begin receiving monthly solar credits that lower your electricity costs. The credits show up directly on your utility bill, with your discount applied automatically.
Special Programs for Income-Eligible Residents
New York offers the Solar for All program, providing no-cost community solar subscriptions to income-eligible households. Participants can save up to $180 per year on their electricity bills without any upfront costs or installation requirements. To apply, you'll need your most recent electricity bill and documentation of income eligibility.
Benefits of Community Solar
- No Installation Required: Enjoy the benefits of solar energy without installing panels on your property.
- Flexible Terms: Many programs offer no long-term contracts and allow you to cancel anytime without penalties.
- Environmental Impact: Support the generation of clean, renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Local Economic Growth: Community solar projects create jobs and stimulate local economies.
Why Choose PureSky Energy?
PureSky Energy is dedicated to making renewable energy accessible and affordable for all New Yorkers. Our community solar programs offer transparent terms, reliable savings, and dedicated customer support. By choosing PureSky, you're not only reducing your electricity bills but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for your community.
