Solar Options If You Rent (You Have More Than You Think)

Rooftop solar generally isn't an option if you rent, but that doesn't mean solar-driven savings are entirely out of reach.

Community solar

The most direct option: subscribe to a share of an off-site solar array and get a proportional credit on your regular utility bill, with no equipment or property commitment required. Availability depends on your state — see our community solar guide and check your state's page for current program status.

Portable and balcony solar

Small portable panel kits (commonly 100-800 watts) can offset a modest amount of usage if you have outdoor access — a balcony, patio, or yard with landlord permission — though the savings are proportionally small compared to a full rooftop system. These are more practical for supplementing specific devices or a small load than fully offsetting a typical apartment's electric bill.

Green power / renewable energy utility plans

Many utilities and third-party electricity providers (especially in deregulated retail-choice states) offer a "100% renewable" or green energy plan option, where your electricity purchase is matched with renewable generation credits. This doesn't reduce your usage or necessarily save money, but it's a straightforward way to support renewable generation without any equipment.

Ask your landlord about rooftop solar

In some markets, landlords are increasingly installing solar themselves (sometimes with state incentive programs specifically for rental properties) either to reduce their own operating costs on units where they pay utilities, or as a property upgrade. If solar matters to you and you have a good relationship with your landlord, it's worth a direct conversation — some state incentive programs specifically target multi-family and rental housing.