Solar Credits and Tenant Utility Savings in Wisconsin

Solar power and energy credits are becoming more common in Wisconsin, but many renters are unsure if they can benefit. This article explains how solar credits work, what rights and protections renters have, and what to look for in your lease or utility bills. Everything here is based on current Wisconsin law and official sources.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Renters in Wisconsin

Solar power credits, also called renewable energy credits or net metering benefits, are savings or discounts that result when a property generates electricity from solar panels. Sometimes landlords install panels and receive credits for electricity sent back to the grid. Renters may want to know if these savings can lower their own utility costs or rent.

Who Gets Solar Credits: Landlord or Tenant?

In most cases, the person named on the utility account—often the landlord—receives the solar credits. However, there are community solar programs and some lease agreements that allow tenants to benefit directly or share in the savings. Key points for renters include:

• Separate Meters: If each rental unit has its own utility meter and bill, tenants are more likely to see direct solar savings.
• Owner-paid Utilities: If rent includes utilities and the landlord pays the bill, solar power credits usually benefit the landlord directly.
• Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Office of Energy Innovation provides state-level guidance on solar programs.

Wisconsin Community Solar Options

If you can't install solar panels yourself, explore community solar programs in Wisconsin. These allow renters to "subscribe" to a share of a larger solar project and get utility bill credits for the electricity produced.

Lease Terms, Disclosures, and Your Rights

Wisconsin law does not require landlords to pass solar savings to tenants, but all utility costs should be honestly described in your lease. If you're unsure who gets solar credits or how utilities are billed, ask your landlord to clarify in writing. If utilities are included in the rent, landlords can factor solar savings into costs but must treat all tenants fairly under antidiscrimination and rental laws.

• All rental utility arrangements in Wisconsin are covered under the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant^[1].
• Disputes over energy charges may be brought before the Wisconsin Department of Administration or the Wisconsin Small Claims Court for rental disputes.

If you believe you are being overcharged or if solar credits you are entitled to aren't reflected in your bill, you have the right to request an itemized bill or file a complaint.

Relevant Official Forms for Renters

• Wisconsin DATCP Tenant Complaint Form (Form S-2015): Use this form to file a complaint if you believe your landlord is not being transparent about utility charges or solar credits. Access the form and instructions directly from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
  Example: A renter receives a utility bill that doesn't show promised solar credit savings. The renter can file Form S-2015 to request an investigation.
• Wisconsin Small Claims Summons and Complaint (SC-500): If negotiations fail, tenants may use the official small claims forms to recover disputed charges under $10,000.
  Example: If you paid for utilities that were later found to be incorrectly billed, you can file this form in your local circuit court.

Action Steps for Wisconsin Renters

Here are practical actions Wisconsin renters can take to protect their utility rights and maximize savings with solar credits:

• Ask your landlord for written details on who receives and benefits from any solar energy credits.
• Review your lease and utility agreements for clear language about electricity billing and solar savings.
• If in doubt, contact the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection or submit a formal complaint if you feel your utility rights are violated.

FAQ: Solar Savings and Tenant Utility Rights in Wisconsin

1. Can a renter in Wisconsin directly benefit from solar panels on the property?
   In most cases, renters only benefit if their lease or utility agreement specifies they will receive solar credits or if they participate in a community solar program.
2. Are landlords required to pass solar savings to tenants?
   No, Wisconsin law does not obligate landlords to pass on savings, but all billing must be clearly explained in the lease.
3. How can renters verify if they are receiving solar bill credits?
   Ask the landlord or check with the utility company. You can request an itemized utility bill under Wisconsin law.
4. What should I do if I think utility charges are unfair?
   You can file a formal complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, using the official Tenant Complaint Form (S-2015).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Renters

• Solar power credits can help lower energy bills if they are structured to benefit tenants—always review your lease and billing agreements.
• If you have concerns, use official Wisconsin forms and resources to enforce your rights.
• Community solar programs may be a good avenue for direct solar savings if your building does not allow individual participation.

Staying informed helps Wisconsin renters maximize savings and ensures transparency in all utility charges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Tenants’ Rights and Responsibilities Guide
• DATCP Landlord-Tenant Consumer Protection Bureau – For complaints and inquiries
  Phone: (800) 422-7128
• Office of Energy Innovation (PSC of Wisconsin)
• Wisconsin Small Claims Court Locator

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1. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant

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