Solar Power for Renters: Breaking Down the Barriers to Clean Energy Access

March 10th, 2025

For far too long, the benefits of solar energy have been out of reach for a significant segment of the population - renters and residents of multi-unit buildings. While homeowners have enjoyed the financial savings and environmental advantages of transitioning to renewable power, those without control over their rooftops or the ability to make long-term investments have been largely left out of the solar revolution.

However, the solar industry is finally taking steps to address this inequity, with a wave of innovative solutions emerging to empower renters and multi-unit dwellers to participate in the clean energy future. In this blog post, we'll explore the unique challenges these groups have faced in accessing solar power, and showcase the creative models that are breaking down the barriers to renewable energy adoption.

The Renter's Dilemma: Misaligned Incentives and Lack of ControlFor renters, the path to solar has been fraught with obstacles. Without the ability to install panels on their own properties, they have been unable to directly reap the benefits of renewable energy generation. Additionally, the upfront costs and long-term commitments associated with traditional solar systems have been a poor fit for those who may only occupy a residence for a short period of time.

To make matters worse, the relationship between landlords and tenants has often created a misalignment of incentives when it comes to solar investments. Landlords may be reluctant to install solar panels on their properties if they won't be the primary beneficiaries of the energy savings, while renters lack the authority to make such long-term upgrades themselves.

Innovative Solutions: Empowering Renters to Go SolarFortunately, the solar industry has recognized these challenges and is responding with a wave of innovative solutions tailored to the needs of renters and multi-unit residents. Chief among these is the rise of community solar programs, which allow individuals to subscribe to a shared solar array, often located off-site, and receive the credits on their utility bills.

By enabling renters to participate in solar projects without the need for on-site installations, community solar has emerged as a game-changer, providing access to renewable energy regardless of living situation. Many states are now offering incentives and policies to encourage the development of these shared solar initiatives, making them an increasingly accessible option for those who have historically been excluded from the solar revolution.

In addition to community solar, portable solar solutions are also gaining traction among renters. Compact, user-friendly solar panels and battery storage systems allow individuals to easily set up and transport their own renewable energy systems, taking them along when they move to a new residence. These plug-and-play solutions empower renters to enjoy the benefits of solar power without the constraints of traditional rooftop installations.

Looking to the Future: Advocacy and Policy ChangeWhile these innovative solar models are making significant strides in expanding access, the path to true equity in the clean energy transition will also require concerted advocacy and policy changes. Renters and multi-unit residents must raise their voices to support initiatives that mandate solar-ready building codes, provide incentives for landlords to install solar, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the renewable energy revolution.

At Bracket, we believe that solar power should be accessible to all, regardless of living situation or socioeconomic status. That's why we are committed to staying at the forefront of the industry's efforts to overcome the barriers that have historically excluded renters and multi-unit dwellers from the benefits of clean, sustainable energy.

Contact us today to learn more about the exciting solar opportunities available to you, and let us help you take the first step towards a brighter, more equitable energy future.