Solar Panels for Apartments & Renters

Choosing green energy and harnessing the greatness of renewable energy like solar power will significantly reduce electricity bills. But more importantly, it will positively impact the environment and climate change!

As a homeowner, installing solar panels and enjoying the incredible returns of the clean energy they produce is far easier.

But, as someone who lives in a rental house or an apartment building, installing solar panels gets tricky. You need not worry, though!

Even if you don’t own the roof you live under, enjoying the benefits of rooftop solar systems and minimizing your carbon footprint is still possible!

Here’s a quick guide to answer all the possible questions an apartment or rental property owner may have!

Key Takeaways

Solar panels can be installed in apartments and rental properties, but space limitations may require portable solar panels that produce between 0.3kWh and 1.5kWh of electricity per day.

Installing a solar power system in a rental property is theoretically possible but should be done with the landlord’s permission and involvement due to the cost and property ownership.

Renters and apartment residents have several options for accessing solar energy, including convincing their landlord to install solar panels, using portable solar panels, participating in community solar projects, or purchasing green power from utility companies or through Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).

Can you place solar panels in an apartment?

The answer is yes, you can. But, because of the lack of space or the limited balcony area, you may require a portable solar panel. The electricity produced by these portable solar products is between 0.3kWh to 1.5kWh every day.

Is the installation of solar power systems in rental properties okay?

Theoretically speaking, yes, it is okay to install solar panels. But, getting a landlord’s permission first on a rental house is advisable. An upgrade like this can irk most apartment owners if you don’t ask them first.

Plus, the installation is a reasonably pricey affair, so it makes no sense to invest in it yourself. So, ask your landlord to do it since it’s their property.

Can you rent or lease a solar panel for your apartment?

Only a homeowner can acquire a solar installation on rent or lease. This rental lease is usually a long-term agreement with a penalty clause if the solar system is removed before the end of the contract.

Explore solar energy options available to all apartment residents and renters.

As a renter or resident of an apartment building, installing solar panels is complicated. You cannot simply purchase a solar kit and install a rooftop solar system as you please.

But, despite that, you do have 4 options that you can explore and choose!

Ask your landlord

If you live in a rental house, your best bet is to request the landlord to install solar panels.

If your rented house has a suitable roof, convince your landlord to go solar. Explain the advantages of utilizing solar rooftop systems. You can also discuss the underneath pointers with them:

• Talk about the various federal and local solar tax credits available to owners of solar panels
• Many states claim solar properties and offer an exemption on sales tax
• The owner of a solar panel enjoys net metering credits on the surplus of green energy generation
• In case of a cash crunch, there are several explore-worthy financing options offered

Additionally, charm your landlord with stats and facts. Inform them about how valuable a property becomes when solar technology is installed. On average, homes installed with solar panels are worth more than others.

Solar panels invariably attract occupants, thanks to their promise of low energy costs and the clean energy produced. But before indulging in a conversation with your landlord, be sure you are armed with all the facts and figures about solar panels in your area.

Buy portable solar panels.

Minimal cost and high return on money make portable solar panels viable options. They are efficient and convenient, especially for people living and shifting apartment buildings often.

Besides, if you are a frequent camper or live in RVs, small devices like a portable solar system are perfect!

As long as the sun exposure is optimum, you can place it anywhere- by the window sill, fence, or balcony railing.

Moreover, these small solar energy kits generate electricity of about 0.3kWh to 1.5kWh every day and are estimated to be between 100-300 watts. So, the power produced is enough for your laptop, phone, or other small appliances.

Next, let’s take a quick look at why a portable solar system is beneficial for you:

• Portable systems come with connected battery storage, or you can attach one.
• Small solar kits are qualified to receive a federal tax credit that helps save money.
• You can enjoy the best green power wherever you go with a rooftop solar array!

However, here are some downsides of a portable solar energy panel:

• As opposed to rooftop or ground-installed solar panels, the power produced by a portable panel will not be enough. You would still require some decent grid power to run most essential appliances.
• The storage system or the portable battery might increase your monthly bill. The smaller your solar panel, the more costly per watt.

Jump on a community solar project.

Reliant on your area, there might be a good chance of finding a community solar project that you can hop on. It allows several community people to invest in one solar system jointly.

So, instead of stationing your system of solar panels in your backyard or roof, a community can collect funds for utility-grade solar panel installation. This shared solar system creates enough power to export to the domestic electric utility.

Virtual net metering can also reduce your electricity bill to half based on your contribution.

So, whether a property is yours or not, you can enjoy the benefits of community solar projects. It also lets you move hassle-free.

Since many people invest in the solar panel system, everyone saves money on utility bills because of economies of sale.

The professional installation wipes away all worries, and the minimal equipment cost is not high in anyone’s pocket. So, overall, the cost savings are high while energy generation is at the max.

And the only disadvantage of a community solar project is that you can’t find it everywhere. Very few states allow for the same, and even with the allowance, the approval and agreement of stakeholders are hard to get.

Purchase Green Power

It’s okay if you cannot install solar panels and produce your green power. You can buy green power for your house!

The Environmental Protection Agency defines green power as the subcategory of renewable energy that bestows equally great environmental benefits.

You can buy green power from two sources:

Purchase it directly from utility companies

Many utilities offer a green rate plan or pricing, assuring consumers that some of their energy comes straight from renewable energy sources.

Although this is costly, it is still an excellent option if you are concerned about your carbon footprint.

Purchase Renewable Energy Certificates

REC is a certificate that ensures the power that comes to your house is extracted from renewable and green sources. One REC indicates one MWh of energy. On average, a house utilizes 11MWh of electric power every year.

So, although your utility company might be employing REC to provide a green rate plan, you can buy them nonetheless from certified retailers.

Case Study: Embracing Solar Energy in Rental Properties

Background

A group of environmentally conscious renters wanted to harness solar energy but faced challenges due to living in rental properties. They approached Solar Panels Network USA for solutions that would allow them to benefit from solar energy without owning the property.

Project Overview

Our team provided a comprehensive guide on the various options available for renters to access solar energy. The objective was to help them reduce their electricity bills and environmental impact through practical and feasible solar solutions.

Implementation

• Landlord Engagement: We advised the group on how to approach their landlords with the proposal to install solar panels. This included providing information on the financial incentives, such as federal and local solar tax credits, and the increased property value that comes with solar installations.
• Portable Solar Panels: For those who couldn’t get their landlords on board, we recommended high-efficiency portable solar panels. These panels were suitable for placing on balconies or window sills, providing a convenient way to generate solar power.
• Community Solar Projects: We connected the group with local community solar projects. By participating in these projects, they could collectively invest in a larger solar installation and receive credits on their electricity bills for the power generated.
• Green Power Purchases: For immediate impact, we suggested purchasing green power from utility companies or through Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). This ensured that a portion of their electricity usage came from renewable sources.

Results

• Successful Landlord Approvals: Several renters successfully convinced their landlords to install solar panels, resulting in reduced electricity bills and a positive environmental impact.
• Effective Use of Portable Panels: Renters using portable solar panels reported significant savings on their utility bills and appreciated the flexibility of taking their panels with them if they moved.
• Community Solar Participation: Those who joined community solar projects enjoyed the benefits of solar energy without the need for individual installations, making the process seamless and cost-effective.
• Increased Green Power Usage: Many renters opted to purchase green power, contributing to their overall goal of reducing their carbon footprint.

Summary

This case study demonstrates that renters can effectively embrace solar energy through various innovative solutions. By engaging landlords, utilizing portable solar panels, participating in community solar projects, and purchasing green power, renters significantly reduced their electricity bills and environmental impact. Solar Panels Network USA provided the guidance and resources needed to make these sustainable choices accessible and effective for renters.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Solar Panels for Apartments & Renters

Installing solar panels in rental properties can be a bit challenging, but portable solar panels provide a great alternative. They are versatile and can significantly reduce your carbon footprint, even if you don’t own the property.

Senior Solar Technician

Convincing your landlord to install solar panels can be beneficial for both parties. Highlighting the financial incentives and environmental benefits can make a compelling case for adopting solar energy in rental properties.

Lead Solar Installer

Community solar projects are a fantastic option for renters. They allow you to invest in solar energy collectively and enjoy the benefits without needing to install panels on your property.

Solar Energy Consultant

Experience Solar Excellence with Us!

Trust in Solar Panels Network USA, where our seasoned experts deliver top-quality solar solutions for homes and businesses nationwide. With a legacy of countless successful installations and a commitment to sustainable energy, we’re your reliable partner in the solar journey. Ready for a brighter, eco-friendly future? Call us now at (855) 427-0058 and harness the sun’s power!

Wrapping Up

When discussing using solar power, most people automatically think of solar installation or panels on the roof. But that’s not the case.

Not owning a house or living in an apartment building should not deter you from going solar.

You can either urge your landlord to invest in solar panels by explaining plenty of benefits that would come with it. Or, get a battery-installed portable solar panel, and travel with it everywhere.

Moreover, you can use innovative models such as participating in a community solar project or buying green power.

So, with either one of these options, you can go solar and eliminate the need to rely on fossil fuels! It will also make an appreciable difference in the environment, and you are bound to save money on your electric bills, too!