Locally Produced Community Solar Comes to Minneapolis Metro Region

Xcel Energy customers in the Minneapolis Metro region can now enjoy the benefits of solar energy as their electricity source. SunShare is currently enrolling residents in their newest community solar program. Depending on their electricity usage, residents who opt-in to the program may save as much as $500 a year on electricity bills.

Rather than installing solar panels on roofs, SunShare builds large, community solar projects with thousands of panels. SunShare, the largest and most experienced community solar company in Minnesota, is building their first Minnesota “community solar garden” in Waverly. Xcel Energy customers who reside in Wright County, or other adjacent counties such as Hennepin County, can subscribe to the Waverly solar garden on a first-come, first-served basis. New subscribers may pay for their subscription on a month-to-month basis with no upfront fees, or they may pre-pay for their entire subscription.

Xcel Energy buys the power generated in the community solar garden and credits subscribers at a rate that lowers their monthly utility bills. The program is made possible by Minnesota legislation that was passed in 2013.

Compared to rooftop systems, community solar enables subscribers to take advantage of the benefits of solar energy without the hassle of a solar installation or maintenance. Because of its convenience, community solar has been called “the next generation of renewable energy”. If subscribers move within the service area, a simple transfer process can ensure they can take their subscription with them. Or, they can choose to sell their community solar subscription with their home.

SunShare community solar subscribers reap personal and financial rewards immediately and in the long term. They start saving on electricity bills, they stabilize their energy costs, they demonstrate environmental leadership within their community, and they support a cleaner environment for future generations.

Enrollment in the SunShare Community Solar Garden is available to Xcel Energy customers for a limited time on a first-come, first-served basis. More information about community solar is available at 1-844-WOW-SOLAR.