What is Community Energy?
Community energy refers to local renewable energy projects—such as solar arrays, wind installations, or battery storage—where the benefits, such as electricity or cost savings, are shared among multiple local participants, including individuals, households, businesses, and nonprofits. It allows community members to support and benefit from clean, local energy, even if they cannot install equipment on their own property.
Why is Community Energy Important?
It makes the benefits of the energy transition accessible to everyone, including renters, low-income households, and those whose properties aren’t suitable for on-site installations. By generating energy locally, communities can reduce reliance on distant power sources, lower energy costs, support local economic growth, and increase grid resiliency.
How does it differ from other models?
Unlike traditional utility models, community energy empowers local participants to have a direct stake in their power source. It is distinct from individual group purchases (like solar co-ops where you own your own rooftop system) or retail energy supply programs, as it focuses on shared, local, and tangible benefits from renewable installations.