**The Future of Community Solar: Economic Growth and Savings Potential**
When discussing renewable energy, I often hear people ask, “How can solar benefit not just individual homeowners, but entire communities?” One promising solution that’s gaining traction across the country is **community solar**, a model that makes solar power more accessible to a wider audience. For states like Washington, which are exploring new avenues for clean energy growth, community solar programs have the potential to create significant economic benefits, lower costs for participants, and provide a sustainable path to scaling renewable energy.
### What Is Community Solar?
In case you’re new to the concept, community solar programs allow residents or businesses to subscribe to a portion of a shared solar array. Unlike a traditional setup where you install solar panels for your home, the solar array is owned by a third party. Subscribers then receive credit on their electricity bills for their share of the energy produced.
This model doesn’t require homeowners to install equipment on their rooftops, making it a more inclusive option for renters, businesses, or homeowners whose roofs may not be ideal for solar panels.
### Economic Benefits of Community Solar
A recent report by the Washington Urban Infrastructure Lab highlighted the significant economic impact that expanded community solar programs could have. The
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2025/01/08/washington-state-economic-impact-from-community-solar-could-reach-1-7-billion-over-next-decade/
