What are Community Solar Gardens?

By Megan Haley

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As the demand for clean, affordable energy continues to grow, innovative solutions are emerging to make solar power more accessible than ever. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the rise of community solar gardens—a model that opens the door for more people to benefit from solar energy, even if they can’t install panels on their own property.

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So, what exactly is a community solar garden?

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A community solar garden is a centralized solar power installation shared by multiple households, businesses, or organizations. Instead of placing solar panels on your rooftop, you subscribe to a portion of a larger, shared solar array—often located in an open field or on municipal land. The electricity generated by your share of the system is credited directly to your utility bill, lowering your monthly costs while reducing your carbon footprint.

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It’s an ideal solution for renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners with shaded roofs or limited budgets. Community solar allows more people to participate in the clean energy transition—without the need for on-site equipment or upfront installation costs.

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How are community solar gardens transforming energy in North America?

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Across Canada and the U.S., community solar is making renewable energy more inclusive. In places like Nova Scotia and New York, SolarBank is helping to lead this movement by developing and managing community solar gardens that support local economies and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

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In Nova Scotia, where traditional energy sources have been historically carbon-heavy, community solar gardens offer a viable path forward—helping residents meet provincial emissions targets while lowering energy costs. By participating in a solar garden, individuals can directly support their community’s transition to clean energy.

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Meanwhile, in New York, the state’s robust Community Distributed Generation (CDG) program is enabling broader participation in solar projects. SolarBank’s gardens are helping New Yorkers take control of their energy choices and reduce their reliance on volatile energy markets—all while contributing to a greener grid.

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When accepting applications for subscriptions to a community solar garden project, equity comes first. We prioritize those living closest to the project and impacted by it's construction, as well as marginalized groups, low-income housing, hospitals and schools.

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Why choose a community solar garden?

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• No installation, no hassle: No need to own a home or install rooftop panels.

• Cost savings: Participants typically see monthly savings on their utility bills.

• Environmental impact: Reduce your personal or business carbon footprint.

• Local benefits: Support local jobs and clean energy infrastructure in your region.

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The SolarBank difference

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At SolarBank, we’re committed to creating sustainable energy solutions that work for everyone. Our community solar projects in Nova Scotia and New York are designed to be scalable, financially accessible, and environmentally impactful.

We handle everything—from site development to grid integration—ensuring a seamless experience for subscribers. Whether you’re a homeowner, small business owner, or community organization, joining a SolarBank community solar garden is a simple way to be part of the clean energy transition.

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​*Disclaimer: This article is entirely fictional and created for illustrative purposes only. It is not written, endorsed, or affiliated with SolarBank Corporation. Any quotes, statements, or attributions within this article are purely fictional and should not be associated with any real individuals or organizations.

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