We know what you’re thinking - “Solar energy? Isn’t that expensive and complicated?”  

You’re not wrong. In New York, a 5-kW rooftop solar system installation can cost $15,000 or more!   

For many years, the only way to access the benefits of solar energy was through rooftop installations. If you didn’t own the property or lived in a place with less-than-ideal sunny conditions, there weren’t many other options. 

But community solar has changed the game. Thanks to utility consolidated billing, a concept unique to New York, adopting solar energy has never been easier or more accessible! Let’s explore what makes New York community solar different and learn about the impacts it could have on your home or business.  

What is Community Solar?  

Community solar is a state-incentivized program designed to provide everyone access to the benefits of solar energy without needing to own a home or install solar panels. These savings are applied to your electricity bill each month. Nautilus Solar is a community solar provider that builds solar farms and integrates with the local electricity grid, so you don’t have to.  

Is this a Subscription like Spotify or Netflix?  

Not exactly. Spotify and Netflix charge a fixed monthly fee, regardless of how much you use the service.

With community solar, your savings depend on the amount of solar energy generated, which can vary from month to month. If the solar farm produces more energy, you could save more, but if it’s a cloudy or winter month, your savings may be less. 

Recurring Benefit: 
Just like Spotify or Netflix, community solar provides a recurring benefit each month. With these streaming services, you enjoy access to music, shows, and movies on a regular basis. Similarly, with community solar, you receive solar credits consistent with your historical energy usage sent to your account each month. 

So, your savings may fluctuate each month, but here’s the bottom line: you’re always saving! The solar energy you receive goes toward your usage, and you get a 10% discount on this energy. 

What is Utility Consolidated Billing (aka Net Crediting)? 

Here’s where things get cool. New York has a unique billing system that makes it incredibly easy for households and businesses to adopt community solar! This is called utility consolidated billing. With utility consolidated billing, there are no extra steps aside from the enrollment process.  You will still receive a single bill from your utility, National Grid or NYSEG, with the solar credits already applied. 

You will receive one bill from your utility company, but this time it will include solar credits generated from your portion of the solar farm. You receive a 10% discount on the solar credits earned.  

With consolidated billing, your utility pays Nautilus Solar for you, so all you need to do is manage your utility bills as normal.

Check out our billing explained sheets to learn more.  

No Payment Info Needed? Yep, It’s That Simple! 

You don’t even need to worry about managing payment details for another subscription service. That is how integrated this process is! Because you receive service through your utility provider, they already receive payment for monthly electricity charges.  

When you pay for your monthly generation, solar credits, and discount, NYSEG or National Grid will take care of the rest for you. All you have to do is pay your electricity bill on time.     

Are There Any Benefits for Low-to-Moderate Income Subscribers?  

Yes. In New York, the state offers the Solar-for-All program, designed to provide lower-income households access to the benefits of community solar in New York. If you qualify for this program, you may be eligible for additional benefits. When you enroll in a community solar program, you may need to submit a qualifying document to enroll in low-to-moderate income benefits 

 Sounds too Good to be True? It’s Not! 

Since 2006, Nautilus has been a leader in community solar and has worked to offer an equitable and affordable energy choice for everyone. With over 146 operational solar farms and 45,000+ subscribers, Nautilus saved customers over $3.70 million in 2024. 

You can save some money on your electric bill every month with no catch.

By joining Nautilus Solar, you can take control of your savings and join a community of people who care about making an impact in the local community.  

Subscribe to a solar farm near you and start saving today!