Community Solar FAQ

What is community solar?

Community solar is a solar project built on raw land that connects directly to the electric wires running between local homes and businesses. Community solar projects sell their energy to several customers in the community at a discounted rate compared to retail electricity prices.

Why lease my land for community solar?

Community solar provides an excellent opportunity to diversify income from your property by offering higher land lease rates than lease alternatives in a truly passive, long-term lease. We can offer this by using today’s highly efficient solar panels and sunlight tracking technology to optimize yield, while also leveraging existing electrical infrastructure for cheaper relative grid access costs. Additionally, by using existing infrastructure, the timeline to completing construction and beginning full lease payments is quicker than larger scale solar and wind projects.

How long is a community solar lease?

We typically lease land with 30 years of guaranteed lease revenue and the ability to continue the lease for up to 40 years.

Is my property suitable for community solar? 

If you have 10+ acres of dry, largely flat land, we would love to speak with you about how community solar could improve your property’s cash flow and long-term resilience. Sundial will evaluate your property based on its proximity to electrical infrastructure (electrical wires, substations, etc.), buildable area and conformance with permitting requirements.

What do I do if I am interested in leasing my land for community solar? 

Complete the Contact Us form on the right side of this webpage and a Sundial representative with expertise in your area will contact you.

How much money do I need to invest in a community solar project?

There is no cost to the landowner when leasing land for a community solar project. We cover all costs associated with engineering, permitting, constructing, insuring and maintaining the project. After the lease expires, the land will be restored to its previous condition at no cost to you.

How much land do I need for a community solar project?   

Community solar projects are typically built on 10-35 acres of land. Exact acreage is determined by the land specifics (slope, wetlands, etc.)  and the utility’s grid characteristics of the area.

What will the project look like when it’s constructed?

The solar panels and electrical equipment will be surrounded by a fence with native vegetation planted inside the fence to protect the underlying soil quality.

Will the project create odors, toxins or noise?

Community solar projects are toxin-free, do not create any odors and will only generate noise equivalent to a dishwasher while operational.

What environmental impact does community solar have on the property?

Community solar aligns with sustainability goals and actively contributes to a greener environment by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The development process involves adhering to strict local, state and federal environmental regulations and the property will be returned to its prior condition when the lease expires.

Will the community solar installation comply with safety regulations?

Safety is our highest priority in all projects. Our community solar projects meet or exceed all local, state and federal safety standards and regulations.

What maintenance is required and how are repairs handled for community solar?

We have 24/7 remote monitoring of the solar system and regular maintenance inspections to ensure safe and optimal performance, at no expense to the landowner.

What measures are in place to address liability concerns and how does insurance coverage work?

During the permitting process we will work with the local permitting and regulatory authorities to approve our proposed project and provide financial assurances that the land will be returned to its previous condition. Additionally, we work with insurance companies experienced in renewable energy solutions to secure comprehensive coverage for our projects at no cost to the landowner.

Studies show that properties with renewable energy, including community solar, command higher resale values. The project will be a benefit for the community and your property’s market appeal and value.

Our team handles the entire permitting process, ensuring compliance with all regulations. We have experience working with authorities for project approvals, streamlining the process for a hassle-free installation.

What is the process of working with Sundial Energy?

Sundial Energy will provide you with a Memorandum of Agreement that allows us to begin preliminary diligence with the utility and on your property. During this time, we will provide you with an Option to Lease Agreement which includes the option and lease terms, insurance, real estate taxes and property restoration information. Once we have an Option to Lease Agreement executed, Sundial begins the development process and will keep you informed throughout the process. For a typical project, we anticipate the full development process can take as little as 15 months.