Renters face the same problem as homeowners - a split incentive problem. The installation of solar panels is not financially beneficial to renters as they aren't the owners. Renters aren't likely to stay at the rental property long enough in order to reap the solar panels' benefits. This split incentive problem is ultimately a major obstacle to solar for renters.
Community solar
Many renters don’t have the roof space to put a solar panel on their roof. This is why they can get involved in community solar projects. These programs offer renters a way to reduce their utility bills and improve the environment. This growing trend is now being offered by more communities.
A community project with solar panels is often a partnership between utilities and third parties. Sponsors purchase solar panels from third parties, while subscribers sign leases or power purchase agreements. They pay a monthly rent fee to the sponsor and are eligible for credits on their utility bills.
Portable solar panels
Installing a portable solar panel in your apartment, condo, or other rental property can help you cut down on your electricity bill. These panels can be mounted on a window or roof and can provide power to several devices. The panels are capable of producing between 0.3 and 1.5 Kilowatts (kWh) per day. This is more than enough electricity to power some small appliances. You can also get power from portable solar panels with battery storage.
For residential solar panels to be used on roofs, portable panels are more efficient than those for rent. Rooftop solar panels, however, are more efficient and can also be used for larger projects. Renogy sells a range of solar panels that can be used for rental, as well as a few kits that can be used for homeowners.
Feed in tariffs
Feed-in tariffs for renters are a new program being offered by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The department offered net-metering, a program for residential properties. Customers were critical of the low returns and poor customer services. The current pilot program only has 30-50 participants. However, officials hope to expand it. The program is expected to create thousands of jobs in California.
A feed-in tariff is a way to encourage renewable energy production. It pays producers more than the market price. These programs are well-known in Germany as well as many other countries. They offer renters both an energy guarantee and a long term contract.
Permitting
Certain considerations are required when renting solar. You must first ensure that your property is zoned to allow solar panels. This is done through Department of Planning and Zoning. The next step is to determine which type of permits review process your permit application requires. You must also be aware of the provisions of the local building code.
Costs
You might be curious about how solar panels can help you save money when you rent your house. It is possible to lease a panel system from solar companies, but the prices are usually higher than for purchasing it. Also, you'll miss out on incentives offered by the government and local government. You may also lose out on incentives from the government and local governments. In other words, if your solar panels cost 12 cents per unit of kilowatt hour today, you will pay 18.2 cents for the same amount 10 years later.
Renters have a few options to offset the solar cost. There are many solar leasing options, including rent increases and solar-feed-in tariff credits. Rent increases will vary depending on the size and value of your solar project.