How North Dakota Renters Can Benefit from Solar Power Credits

Renters in North Dakota are hearing more about solar power credits and opportunities to save on utility bills. But can tenants in apartments or rented homes actually benefit from solar incentives, and what rights do they have around utility billing and savings? Understanding how North Dakota laws and utility regulations affect renters is key if you want to make the most of solar power and reduce your monthly expenses.

Solar Power and Utilities: How Savings Can Flow to Renters

Solar energy is growing in the U.S., but traditional solar panel systems typically benefit the property owner rather than renters. However, renters in North Dakota do have some options for accessing renewable energy savings, especially through community solar programs, utility billing laws, and potential solar power credits.

• Community Solar: This allows tenants to subscribe to a shared solar project and get credits on their electricity bill.
• Utility Billing Protections: North Dakota law regulates how utilities bill residents, whether charges come from a landlord or utility provider.
• Legislation: Renters are protected by the North Dakota Century Code, specifically Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant.

While most solar tax benefits go to owners, solar credits from programs like community solar can be reflected on utility bills, allowing renters to see reduced costs each month. Not every area or landlord participates, but it's worth asking about options or checking with your local utility company.

How Solar Credits Work for Tenants in North Dakota

If you’re interested in solar savings, here’s how it typically works for renters:

• Community Solar Enrollment: Tenants can join a community solar project if their utility offers it (for example, through Montana-Dakota Utilities). This doesn't require rooftop panels on your residence.
• Bill Credits: Once enrolled, a portion of the electricity generated by the shared solar project is credited to your monthly utility bill, potentially reducing your overall costs.
• Participation Limitations: Not every utility or landlord provides access, so check enrollment requirements with your utility or property manager.

North Dakota does not have a statewide solar credit form or application for renters, but many utility companies have their own sign-up process.

What About Landlord-Provided Utilities?

Some North Dakota rentals include utilities as part of the rent, meaning your monthly payment covers electric bills as well. In these cases, solar savings may be reflected in lower operating costs for the landlord, but not always passed on to you directly. Under North Dakota's landlord and tenant law, landlords must provide a written statement about included utilities if utilities are part of your lease agreement.¹

Understanding Your Rights: Utilities, Billing, and Disputes

Tenants have clear rights around utility billing in North Dakota:

• Utility Billing Transparency: Landlords must provide itemized bills if tenants are required to pay for utility services not included in rent.
• Notice of Service Interruption: If a landlord fails to pay a utility for a service included in your lease, you have the right to written notice and are protected from immediate shut-offs.

If you have disputes over utility charges, you can file a complaint with the North Dakota Public Service Commission, which handles electricity and utility issues.

Official Forms for North Dakota Renters

• North Dakota Complaint Form (Utilities):
  Utility Complaint Form
  Use this form if you wish to file a dispute with your electric provider or if your landlord is violating utility service provisions. For example, if your electricity is shut off despite your rent being current and utilities were contractually included, file this form with the North Dakota Public Service Commission.

Actions Tenants Can Take

• Ask your landlord or property manager if the rental participates in any community solar or renewable energy program.
• Contact your utility provider to ask if they offer community solar or bill credit programs for renters.
• Keep all lease documents and utility bills; North Dakota law protects your right to transparent billing and utility services.
• If you believe you are being unfairly charged for utilities or denied access to savings, contact the Public Service Commission or seek advocacy assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can North Dakota renters get solar credits on their utility bills?
   Yes, if your utility company offers a community solar program or similar renewable energy option, you can receive credits directly on your electricity bill even as a renter. Check with your utility provider for availability.
2. What rights do tenants have if there’s a utility billing dispute?
   Tenants may file a complaint with the North Dakota Public Service Commission if they believe their landlord or utility provider has made an error or failed to follow state law. The commission will review the case based on tenant protections in state legislation.
3. Is my landlord required to share solar savings if I pay for utilities?
   No, unless your lease specifies that you receive a share of solar credits or lower rates as part of the agreement. Ask your landlord to clarify if any programs are in place and get details in writing.
4. How do I file a complaint about utilities as a renter?
   Complete the Utility Complaint Form from the Public Service Commission and submit it as directed on the form. Provide details and documentation about your issue.
5. Where can I read about North Dakota’s tenant and utility laws?
   The North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 covers landlord and tenant law, including rules on utilities, billing, and dispute resolution.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• North Dakota renters may access solar credits through utility community solar programs, but availability depends on your provider and property situation.
• State law protects your right to clear utility billing and complaint options via the Public Service Commission.
• Always confirm—in writing—how utilities and potential savings are handled in your lease.

Understanding your rights and options is the best way to maximize savings and resolve issues with utilities as a North Dakota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Public Service Commission – Utilities Complaints: For disputes about electricity and billing.
• North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights: Information and services for housing issues.
• Read North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 47-16)
• Local legal aid: North Dakota Legal Services offers free assistance to eligible renters (Legal Services ND).

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Title 47, Chapter 16. Landlord and Tenant Law
2. North Dakota Public Service Commission. Utility Dispute Resolution and Complaint Filing
3. North Dakota Attorney General. Landlord/Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

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