Renters face the same problem as homeowners - a split incentive problem. Renters don't own the property, so they don't benefit financially from the installation of solar panels. Renters aren't likely to stay at the rental property long enough in order to reap the solar panels' benefits. Ultimately, this split incentive problem is a big hurdle in the way of solar for renters.
Community solar
Renters often don't have enough space for a solar system to be installed on their roof. However, they can take advantage of community solar projects. These programs offer renters a way to reduce their utility bills and improve the environment. It is becoming a more popular trend to offer community solar in more areas.
A community-based solar project is usually a partnership of a utility with a third party. A sponsor purchases solar panels from a third party, and subscribers participate through a lease or power purchase agreement. The sponsor charges a monthly fee and subscribers receive credit on their utility bills.
Portable solar panels
If you're renting an apartment, condo, or room, you can save money on your electric bill by setting up a portable solar panel. These panels can be mounted on a roof or window, and can supply power to multiple devices. The panels typically produce about 0.3 to 1.5 kWh of electricity per day, which is more than enough to power a few small appliances. A few portable solar panels also have battery storage to allow you to access the power whenever it is needed.
Solar panels for rent are different to residential panels which must be placed on rooftops. However, rooftop solar panels can be more efficient and may be used for larger systems. There are a variety of portable solar panels for renters on the market, and Renogy offers a number of kits for homeowners.
Feed-in tariffs
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has a new program offering renters feed in tariffs. The department previously offered a program called net-metering for residential properties, but it was criticized by customers for resulting in low returns and poor customer service. The current pilot program only has 30-50 participants. However, officials hope to expand it. California expects the program to create thousands upon thousands of jobs.
The feed-in tarif is an incentive to produce renewable energy by paying producers more than market prices. These programs are extremely popular in Germany, as well as other countries. They offer renters both an energy guarantee and a long term contract.
Permitting
Allowing solar to be used by renters requires certain considerations. First, make sure that the property is approved for solar panels. This can be done through the Department of Planning and Zoning. Next, you must determine which permits review process you should follow. It is important to be familiar with the requirements of your local building code.
Prices
You may be interested in solar panels if you rent your home. It is possible to lease a panel system from solar companies, but the prices are usually higher than for purchasing it. Leases can also exclude you from incentives offered by the local and federal governments. Moreover, many leases have escalator clauses that reduce the savings you make. For example, if a solar panel costs 12c per kilowatt, you'll pay 18.2c per kilowatt in 10 year time.
There are several ways renters can offset the high cost of solar. There are many solar leasing options, including rent increases and solar-feed-in tariff credits. The rent increases you get will depend on the size of the solar project and the property value.