Can renters in Oklahoma receive solar power credits directly?

Renters usually do not receive solar power credits directly; these credits go to the utility account holder, often the landlord. However, landlords may pass savings on to renters in the form of reduced rent or lower utility charges.

What can I do if I believe my landlord is not sharing solar savings?

You may request detailed utility billing information in writing from your landlord and, if concerns remain, file a complaint with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Public Utility Division.

Does Oklahoma law require my landlord to pass solar savings to me?

No, there is no state law requiring landlords to share solar savings with renters unless it is specified in your lease agreement.

How do I know if my apartment is benefiting from solar panels?

Ask the landlord or check your utility bill for net metering or solar credit details; you can also call the utility provider for verification.

Who oversees residential utility billing issues in Oklahoma?

The Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Public Utility Division handles disputes and complaints about utility services and billing.

How Oklahoma Renters Can Save with Solar Power Credits

Utilities, Services & Billing Oklahoma published June 21, 2025

For renters in Oklahoma, utility costs can be a major part of your monthly expenses. Many tenants wonder if they can access savings from solar power credits even if they don’t own their home. This article explains what solar power credits are, how they work in Oklahoma, and what you can do to potentially save money on your electricity bills as a renter.

Understanding Solar Power Credits in Oklahoma

Oklahoma allows for a system known as "net metering," which lets utility customers with solar panels send excess power back to the grid and receive credits on their monthly bills. These credits can significantly reduce electricity costs. However, the system is designed primarily for property owners who can install solar equipment. But what does this mean for tenants?

Renters and Access to Solar Benefits

Most renters do not control whether their building has solar panels. However, if your landlord has installed solar on your building, or if you live in a multi-unit property with a shared solar system, the savings can sometimes be passed on to you in the form of lower rent or reduced utility bills.

Ask your landlord if solar credits are being applied to your building's utility bill.
Request an explanation of your portion of any utility savings, if solar installation is present.
If utilities are included in your rent, ask whether your rent reflects reduced costs from solar credits.

Laws Protecting Renters’ Access to Utility Information

Under Oklahoma’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, tenants have the right to receive utility billing information for their premises upon request¹. If you believe you are entitled to solar savings, you can formally request billing statements showing the application of solar credits to your unit.

How Net Metering Works for Renters

Net metering primarily benefits property owners who invest in solar. Some landlords may share these savings with renters, especially in newer or green-certified buildings. Oklahoma tenants who pay utilities directly to the provider (like OG&E or PSO) won’t see solar savings unless there are panels serving their specific unit or a shared rooftop system.

If your landlord bills you for electricity individually, ask whether solar savings are calculated and reflected.
If you pay utilities to a provider, you can review your bill for a net metering or solar credit line.

Key Forms for Utility Disputes and Requests

If you have questions or concerns about solar credits or utility billing, you can use the following forms:

Request for Utility Information: Oklahoma does not have a statewide standardized form for this request. However, you may submit a written request to your landlord citing your rights under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Tip: Always submit written utility requests by certified mail for documentation.
Complaint to the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC): If you suspect utility overcharging or improper allocation of solar credits, file a consumer complaint with the OCC.
- Utility Complaint Form (OCC)
- Example: You discover your landlord benefits from solar but is not crediting you for shared savings. File a complaint with OCC.

What Does the Law Say about Shared Utility Savings?

Oklahoma law does not require landlords to share solar savings unless it was agreed to in your lease. However, landlords must provide accurate billing and disclosure if you ask¹. If you believe your bill is incorrect, you may seek help from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) Public Utility Division.

Action Steps for Renters

Check your lease to see if it mentions solar power credits or utility savings.
Submit a written request to your landlord for detailed utility bill breakdowns, including any solar offsets.
Contact your utility provider to confirm if net metering credits are applied to your unit’s account.
If unsatisfied, file a complaint with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Public Utility Division.

Even if solar savings aren’t specifically passed on now, starting a conversation with your landlord may encourage them to consider future shared benefits, especially in multi-unit buildings considering energy upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can renters in Oklahoma receive solar power credits directly?
Generally, only the owner or the account holder whose name is on the utility bill will see these credits. However, savings can sometimes be passed through to renters if the landlord chooses.
What should I do if I suspect a billing issue with solar credits?
Request a utility bill breakdown from your landlord and, if needed, file a complaint with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission using their official form.
Does my landlord have to share solar credit savings?
No, unless your lease agreement states otherwise. However, you can ask for clarification and discuss future sharing of savings.
How can I find out if my apartment has solar panels?
Ask your landlord or property manager directly, or look for information in your lease or building notices. You can also contact your utility provider to ask about the presence of net metering credits on your account.
Is there a way to get involved in solar programs as a renter?
Look out for community solar programs or local co-ops, though availability in Oklahoma is limited. The OCC Public Utility Division may have updates on new initiatives.

Summary: What Oklahoma Renters Should Know

Solar power credits typically benefit property owners, but tenants can ask if savings are shared.
Oklahoma law gives renters the right to request utility billing information.
For disputes or questions, renters can contact the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Public Utility Division.

Being informed about your rights can help you start a conversation about solar savings with your landlord and encourage fair billing practices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oklahoma Corporation Commission Public Utility Division – Utility complaints and resources
Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency – Renter support and housing information
Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (full text)
Oklahoma Renter Rights Information (DCS)