New York community solar FAQs
How do community solar credits and billing work in New York?
In New York state, there is what's called Universal Consolidated Billing (UCB). This means that, as a community solar subscriber, you simply receive your regular utility bill and it'll just have an additional section or line item showcasing your solar farm credits and how much they're offsetting your cost. It's all consolidated right on your existing bill (unlike Non-Universal Consolidated Billing which includes two bills: one from your utility and one from the project itself). UCB is the preferred method within the industry and for you, the subscriber. That's because you don't need to do anything differently. Its one-bill model is seamless and efficient.
In New York, some longer-standing projects do use Non-Universal Consolidated Billing, meaning you may get a bill from Perch (separate from your utility electricity bill) for the credits, but at a discounted rate. Learn more about community solar billing.
Who in New York is eligible for community solar?
Some eligibility requirements do apply depending on the project and location. But if you pay an electricity bill, you may be eligible for community solar! That includes residents (renters and homeowners), businesses, franchises, non-profits, universities, religious organizations, hospitals, municipality buildings, stores, and more.
Does it cost anything to join a New York community solar program?
No. Signing up for community solar with Perch is totally free with no upfront fees. Once you’re matched to a farm, we’ll thoroughly explain how your credits work so you aren’t surprised by anything.
How much can I save with community solar in New York?
Based on New York legislation and the policies around specific projects, community solar subscribers in New York typically save between 5-10% on annual electricity costs! Savings vary based on your location and the project you’re assigned to and may differ month to month. Exact savings not guaranteed.
Does community solar change my utility company or electricity provider?
Nope! Neither your utility nor electricity provider will change with community solar.
Does Perch own the solar farms in New York?
We don’t. Solar farms are usually owned by companies, firms, special entities or in some cases the utilities themselves. Perch just manages solar farms and helps you, the customer or subscriber, get savings.
Where does the electricity go that a New York solar farm generates?
Onto the overall grid! Because solar farms are connected to the utility, the energy they produce is put onto the grid and the utility distributes it as needed. The benefit is that the utility is getting loads of clean, eco-friendly energy as opposed to energy from harmful fossil fuel sources.
Does a solar farm have to be in my city or town for me to subscribe?
No. While there does need to be one within a certain vicinity and with a certain amount of capacity available to take on subscribers, it doesn’t necessarily need to be in your city or town. The solar farm’s energy isn’t going directly into your home or business, so it’s not as though you must be within range of the transmission lines. When you sign up with Perch, the first thing we do is check if there’s a solar farm available to you.