Solar Power Credits: How New York Renters Can Save

Living in New York can mean high energy bills, but as a renter, you have more opportunities than ever to save money through solar power credits. Thanks to state-backed programs, renters—just like homeowners—can participate in solar energy savings. This guide will help you understand how solar power credits work for New York tenants, your rights under current law, and what steps to take for shared utility benefits.

Solar Power Credits for Renters: The Basics

New York’s NY-Sun Program and Community Solar initiatives allow electricity customers—including many renters—to subscribe to shared solar projects. As a subscriber, you receive solar credits on your monthly utility bill, reducing your electricity costs even if you don’t own your roof or live in a single-family home.

How Community Solar Works for Tenants

• Sign up with a local community solar provider (often online or through your utility).
• Solar energy generated offsite is allocated to your account as credits.
• Your utility bill reflects these credits, lowering your total payment.

You do not need to install panels or make any upfront payments. Your participation in community solar is portable, so you can often transfer it if you move within the same utility area.

Your Rights as a Tenant: Utility Savings and Solar Credits

New York law protects tenant rights regarding utilities and encourages fair access to energy savings:

• Tenants have the right to clear, written information about utility billing and charges under New York Real Property Law (Sections 235-b, 235-g, and others).
• Rental agreements must specify if you are responsible for utilities and whether solar credits affect your bill. If you’re in a master-metered (building pays the utility) situation, benefits may go to the landlord unless otherwise agreed.

It's important to review your lease and talk with your landlord about shared savings from any installed solar panels or building participation in community solar programs.

Utility Billing and Solar Credits: What If There’s a Dispute?

• If you believe you are not receiving solar credits you are entitled to, or if your bill calculations seem incorrect, contact your utility first.
• If unresolved, you can file a formal complaint with the New York State Public Service Commission.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Utility Complaint Form (No. PSC 44)
  Use this form to lodge a complaint with the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS) if you believe your electric bill does not reflect entitled solar credits or there are errors in your billing.
  When & How: Example: If you subscribed to a community solar project but see no credits appearing on your Consolidated Edison bill, fill out the Utility Complaint Form online or call 1-800-342-3377.

Who Oversees Tenant Utility Disputes in NY?

Disputes involving residential rent, utilities, and habitability are overseen by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) for rent-regulated units, and the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) for utility bill complaints statewide.

What Legislation Protects Tenants?

Your rights regarding solar credits and utility billing can be found in New York State Real Property Law—notably Section 235-b (the “Warranty of Habitability”) and Section 235-g (submetering disclosures)—and in the rules enforced by the New York City Housing Court for city tenants.^[1]

How to File a Utility Complaint for Missing Solar Credits

If your utility bill does not reflect agreed-upon or legal solar credits:

• Contact your utility’s customer service for an explanation and possible correction.
• If unresolved or disputed, file a formal complaint using the Utility Complaint Form with the New York State Department of Public Service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I join a community solar program as a renter in New York?
   Yes, most renters can participate in community solar, even if you do not own your apartment or building. Check with your utility and local solar providers for options.
2. Do I need my landlord’s permission to use solar credits?
   For community solar that applies credits directly to your utility account, you typically do not need landlord approval. For building-installed (on-site) systems, benefits may be managed by the landlord.
3. What should I do if my utility bill doesn’t show my solar credits?
   First, contact your utility. If not resolved, submit a complaint to the New York State Public Service Commission using the official form.
4. Are solar credits guaranteed to reduce my rent or total housing cost?
   No, solar credits reduce your electric bill, not your rent. Savings depend on your usage, the size of your share, and agreement terms.
5. Where can I learn more about tenant rights and utility billing in New York?
   Visit the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal website for guides and resources.

Key Takeaways for New York Renters

• New York renters can benefit from solar power credits through community solar programs.
• Always check your lease and communicate with your landlord regarding utility savings and the flow of credits.
• If you have issues with solar credits or utility billing, use official complaint forms and state resources to seek resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York State Department of Public Service Complaint Center – For utility billing and solar credit issues, including the Utility Complaint Form.
• New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) – Renters Resources – For tenant protections, complaint resolution, and rent regulation guidance.
• NY-Sun Community Solar Program – Information on enrolling in community solar projects as a renter.
• New York City Housing Court – Legal information for city renters facing utility or habitability disputes.

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1. For full legal rights and housing law: see New York State Real Property Law; the PSC Utility Consumer Rights page; and the Division of Housing and Community Renewal Legal Resources.

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