The Economics of Community Solar: How Profits are Made and Consumer Energy Costs Lowered

 In this episode of the Energy Changemakers Podcast, financial expert Rob Hong of Sapling Financial Consultants explains how community solar can provide both profits for developers and cost savings for consumers. He presents the financials of a real project, explains the risks and rewards, compares various community solar approaches, and describes the pros and cons of community solar over other solar business models.  “This discussion provides valuable finanicial insight for any community considering solar,” says podcast host Elisa Wood.

Chapters with Timecodes:

• [0:00] Introduction to Community Solar Economics

  
  



• [1:27] Overview of Community Solar Financials

  
  



• [8:10] Comparing Ownership and Subscription Models

  
  



• [14:31] Financial Benefits and Risks of Community Solar

  
  



• [19:41] Developer's IRR and Return Analysis

  
  



• [27:36] Deep Dive into One Project's Economics

  
  



• [33:59] Risk and Return Analysis for the Operator

  
  



• [39:39] Conclusion and Takeaways on Community Solar

  
  

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