Delaware Renters: Saving with Solar Power Credits

Renewable energy is becoming more accessible for renters in Delaware, thanks to improved state rules and solar power incentives. If you’re curious about reducing your utility expenses or sharing in the savings when your rental uses solar panels, this guide covers what Delaware tenants need to know about solar power credits, shared solar, and your rights under state tenant law.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Delaware Renters

Solar power credits in Delaware typically refer to savings generated when a property with solar panels produces more electricity than it uses, earning "net metering" credits from the utility company. Here’s how this can impact renters:

• If your landlord owns solar panels and supplies some or all apartment electricity, you may benefit from lower monthly electric charges.
• Net metering in Delaware lets property owners offset their utility bills with solar generation, and potentially share credits with tenants if utility accounts are split.
• Delaware also allows “community solar” (shared solar) projects, where renters can subscribe to a portion of a solar farm and receive bill credits, even if you don’t have panels on your roof.

Can Renters Directly Receive Solar Credits?

Renters can benefit from solar credits in two main ways:

• Direct Subscription: If you pay your own utility bill, you may be eligible to join a Delaware community solar program and get credits directly on your Delmarva Power bill. Learn more via the Delaware Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control: Community Solar page.
• Indirect Benefits: If utilities are included in your rent, discuss with your landlord how solar panels may impact your utility costs or if credits can be passed through to you.

Your Rights: Utility Billing and Solar Savings in Delaware Rentals

Delaware law protects renters when it comes to utility billing and sharing savings, but terms often depend on your lease:

• Lease Terms: Leases should clearly state who is responsible for utility payments and who gets the benefit of any solar credits. Always ask for these details in writing.
• Disclosure Obligations: Landlords must disclose if utilities are included or separately metered according to the Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (25 Del. C. § 5312)¹.
• Community Solar Participation: Delaware’s official programs allow renters (with their own utility account) to directly subscribe to solar farms. See more at Community Solar – DNREC.

Common Forms and How Renters Use Them

• Request for Landlord Disclosure (No form number):
  • When to use: If you’re unsure whether your lease allows you to benefit from solar credits, or if you want written proof of billing terms, you can send your landlord a written request for disclosure.
  • How to use: Write a dated letter or email requesting clarification on how solar power or utility billing is handled in your unit, citing 25 Del. C. § 5312 Utility Charges Disclosure. Use the sample template at the bottom of the DNREC Community Solar page for guidance.
  • Official Source: Utility Charges Disclosure – 25 Del. C. § 5312
• Delaware Community Solar Enrollment Application
  • When to use: Renters paying their own Delmarva Power bill can use the utility’s online form to subscribe to a local solar farm.
  • How to use: Visit the Delmarva Power Community Solar page and follow instructions to complete and submit the enrollment application. Bill credits typically start within a billing cycle or two.
  • Official Source: Delmarva Power Community Solar

What to Do If Solar Credits or Utility Charges Disputes Arise

If you believe you are not receiving proper utility disclosures or there is an unfair billing situation regarding solar credits, you can file a complaint with the official authorities:

• Residential Rental Unit Disputes: File with the Delaware Justice of the Peace Court (the main tribunal handling residential tenancies in the state)².
• Utility Service Issues: Contact the Delaware Public Service Commission.

It is helpful to gather all written communications, your lease, and evidence of any billing issues before filing a complaint. If you need legal advice, Delaware’s free legal aid organizations or housing counselors can offer guidance (see resources below).

Key Renter Takeaways About Solar Power Credits in Delaware

• Your rights depend on your lease, but you are entitled to transparent utility billing and disclosure.
• Many renters can join a community solar project directly with their utility account for bill credits.
• Utility disputes, including solar savings disagreements, can be brought to the Justice of the Peace Court.

Delaware Tenancy Legislation Covering Utilities and Solar Credits

All Delaware renters are protected under the Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, especially 25 Del. C. § 5312 Utility Charges Disclosure and utility metering provisions¹. This law covers:

• Landlord requirements for disclosing who pays utilities
• How shared or submetered utilities must be billed and explained
• Resolution of disputes regarding utility billing, including solar credits, via the Justice of the Peace Court

Refer to your lease and the landlord-tenant code for specifics about who keeps solar credits and how utility savings may be shared.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get solar credits if I rent and my landlord owns the solar panels?
   It depends on how your lease is structured and who pays the utility bill. If you pay utilities directly and the system is net-metered to your account, you may be eligible. If utilities are included in your rent, discuss with your landlord how savings are shared.
2. What if I want to join a community solar program?
   Delaware renters with individual Delmarva Power accounts can sign up for community solar projects and receive bill credits—regardless of who owns their building.
3. Does Delaware law require landlords to pass solar savings to tenants?
   Delaware law does not require landlords to pass through solar credits or utility savings unless specified in your lease. You are entitled to clear and accurate disclosure on utility billing.
4. How do I file a dispute about solar credits or utility overcharges?
   Begin by communicating in writing with your landlord. If the dispute isn’t resolved, you may file a claim with the Justice of the Peace Court.
5. Where do I find the official Delaware rules on utility billing and solar credits?
   The rules are in the Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, § 5312 Utility Charges Disclosure.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Justice of the Peace Court (Landlord-Tenant Tribunal)
• Delaware Public Service Commission (utility disputes)
• Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code – Full Text
• Legal Services Corporation of Delaware (free tenant legal help)
• Delaware DNREC Community Solar Program

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1. 25 Del. C. § 5312, Utility Charges Disclosure
2. Justice of the Peace Court: Landlord-Tenant Information

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