FAQ
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General
What is community solar?
Community solar allows multiple households or businesses to share the benefits of a single solar project.
How does community solar work?
You subscribe to a share of a solar farm. The energy it generates is sent to the local utility grid, and you receive credits on your utility bill based on your share.
What's the difference between community solar and rooftop solar?
Rooftop solar is installed on your property and requires upfront investment and maintenance. Community solar is off-site, requires no installation.
Who owns the solar panels in a community solar project?
The solar farm is typically owned and operated by a solar developer or utility company. Subscribers don't own the panels but benefit from the energy they produce.
Do I need to install anything on my property to participate?
Nope! That's the beauty of community solar — no equipment, no construction, no hassle.
Is this available in my area?
Availability depends on your utility provider and local regulations. We currently serve Maine (CMP, Versant BHD, Versant MPD) and New York (National Grid, NYSEG, RG&E, ConEd, O&R).
Eligibility & Enrollment
Who can join a community solar project?
Anyone with an electricity account in the service area of the solar farm can typically join — homeowners, renters, and businesses.
Can renters participate in community solar?
Absolutely. Since there's no installation required, renters can benefit just like homeowners.
What if I live in an apartment or condo?
You're eligible as long as you have a utility account and live within the service area of the solar farm.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up online in just a few minutes. We'll ask for your utility account info and verify your eligibility.
Is there a credit check or income requirement?
Some programs may require a soft credit check, but many are open to all income levels.
What documents do I need to enroll?
Just your utility account number and a recent electricity bill to help us match your usage.
Can I join if I already have rooftop solar?
Usually no, since you're already generating your own solar energy. But reach out — we'll help you explore your options.
Billing & Savings
How will community solar affect my electricity bill?
You'll continue to receive your regular utility bill, but now it will include solar credits that reduce your total amount due.
How do I save money with community solar?
You receive bill credits for the solar energy your share produces. These credits typically result in 5–15% savings on your electricity costs.
Will I still receive a bill from my utility company?
Yes. Your utility bill will show the solar credits applied, lowering your total payment.
How are credits applied to my utility bill?
Each month, your share of solar energy is calculated and converted into dollar credits. These are automatically applied to your utility bill.
Is there a monthly subscription fee?
Some programs charge a small subscription fee, but many offer guaranteed savings with no upfront costs.
Are there any upfront costs or hidden fees?
No upfront costs. We believe in clear, honest pricing — no surprises.
How do I know how much I'm saving?
You'll see solar credits and savings on your monthly utility bill.
Environmental Impact
How does community solar help the environment?
It reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowers carbon emissions, and supports clean energy development in your community.
How much carbon emissions can I offset by joining?
On average, a typical subscriber offsets the equivalent of planting 100+ trees per year.
Is the energy from community solar 100% renewable?
Yes. It comes directly from solar panels generating clean, renewable energy.
How do I know the solar farm is operating responsibly?
Our solar farms meet strict environmental and safety standards. We partner with trusted developers.
Flexibility & Commitment
Is there a long-term contract?
Some programs offer month-to-month plans, while others have 1–5 year terms.
Can I cancel my subscription anytime?
Yes, with proper notice. Most programs allow cancellation with 30–60 days' notice and no penalty.
What happens if I move?
If you move within the same utility area, you can transfer your subscription. If you move out of the area, you can cancel.
Can I transfer my subscription to someone else?
Yes, in most cases. Just contact us and we'll help with the transfer process.
What if I want to switch back to traditional electricity?
You can cancel your subscription and return to standard utility service at any time, subject to program terms.
Technical & Operational
How is energy from the solar farm delivered to my home?
The energy goes into the local utility grid. You don't receive the electrons directly, but you benefit through bill credits.
What happens on cloudy days or at night?
Solar production varies with sunlight. Your credits are based on monthly output, so fluctuations are averaged out over time.
Will I experience power outages if the solar farm goes offline?
No. Your electricity still comes from the utility grid, so outages are handled by your utility provider as usual.
How is the solar farm maintained?
Our partners handle all maintenance, inspections, and repairs to ensure optimal performance.
Who do I contact if I have a problem?
You can reach our customer support team anytime via phone, email, or chat.
Performance & Monitoring
Can I track how much solar energy I'm using?
Yes. We provide an online dashboard showing your share's production, savings, and environmental impact.
Do I get reports or updates on the solar farm's performance?
Absolutely. You'll receive monthly summaries and can access real-time data through your account.
How do I know the system is working efficiently?
Our operations team monitors performance 24/7 and performs regular maintenance to ensure peak efficiency.
Policy & Regulation
Is community solar supported by government programs?
Yes. Many states and provinces offer incentives and policies that support community solar development.
Are there tax incentives for joining?
Subscribers typically don't receive direct tax credits, but developers may benefit from them.
How does net metering work with community solar?
Instead of net metering, you receive bill credits based on your share of solar production.
Is this regulated by my local utility or government?
Yes. Community solar programs are approved and regulated by utilities and government agencies.
Company-specific
Who operates the solar farm I'm subscribing to?
We partner with experienced solar developers (Nautilus, Nexamp, Arcadia, Ampion, Roofless) who build and maintain the farms. We manage your subscription and support.
What makes AEG different from other community solar providers?
We prioritize transparency, guaranteed savings, and exceptional customer service — and we're locally based with deep understanding of Maine and New York markets.
How do you ensure transparency and accountability?
We provide clear contracts, real-time performance data, and responsive support. No hidden fees, no fine print.
Can I visit the solar farm?
In some cases, yes! We host occasional open house events and virtual tours.
