Are you renting or leasing a home, but are interested in going solar? It is common for most homeowners to not want their renters/ tenants to have solar panels installed onto their roof. However there are a few good solutions to going solar when you rent or lease.

1. Modular and Portable Systems

Some solar systems can be set up with little to no installation processes – no bolting racking to the roof or installing heavy ground-mounted poles.

Lightweight, flexible panels can be a great choice for renters and travelers, easy to transport and set up quickly.

There are also specialty solar kits that can install on your balcony railings, window ledges, and banisters, allowing you to make the most out of your apartment or home space, without needing to install.

Some of these systems even qualify for the 26% federal rebate, so you might end up saving more than you expect!

2. Join A Renewable Community

Some communities, neighborhoods, or even full districts can be remotely tied into solar farms or other renewable plants which power their utilities.

It’s possible to sign up for programs such as these through your regular utility company, which will often pay out in credits on your power bill.

3. Baby Steps

If you can’t afford larger PV panels and the equipment that goes with them, you can still make an impact by going solar on a small scale. Solar chargers for your laptop, cellphone, and other small appliances can make a big difference, allowing you to use less power from your home or apartment outlets without the need for heavier equipment, permitting, or your landlord’s permission.

There are a number of solar power systems that can hang on your balcony or windowsill, be used indoors (in a sunny window spot, for example), or that are portable for camping and hiking.

So you can see, it’s not impossible to go solar when you rent! You can still make a difference both economically and environmentally, even if your landlord won’t let you put solar panels on the roof. Going solar has never been easier, so choose the option that’s best for your situation.