This page will be a place for you to see where we’re doing business, and will be updated to include key information like Active Utilities, Customer Type (Open vs. LMI), Billing Type, and Discount Percentages, as well as links to market-specific training materials.
We also know that questions are bound to arise with any new product or market, so here’s some information to help you better communicate with customers who are curious about subscription and billing:
What is my Community Solar “subscription”? Do I pay a monthly fee?
We know that when you hear the word “subscription,” you tend to think of Netflix, the gym, or any other recurring payment you might make. This works differently, as it doesn’t require an upfront cost.
With community solar, the “subscription fee” is the amount paid to the solar farm on your behalf for the credits you receive, minus the noted discount. (For example, 10% for Open customers in Illinois and 20% for LMI.)
What are the different types of billing methods?
Dual Billing (CO, ME, MD, MA, MN, NY (O&R and Central Hudson), RI, DC): Dual Billing means customers will receive two bills: One from their utility with solar credits, and another from the community solar provider for those credits at a discount.
- Utility Bill: After connecting to a designated solar farm, residents receive a utility bill with solar credits applied. Residents are responsible for paying any remaining balance directly to the utility.
- Community Solar Bill: Residents also receive a bill from their provider (Arcadia, etc.) for their solar credits, which are offered at a discounted rate.
Utility Consolidated Billing (UCB) (IL, NY, NJ, VA): Through Utility Consolidated Billing (UCB), the community solar program is integrated with residents’ existing utility bills, maintaining their usual payment process.
What types of payment options are accepted in Dual Billing markets?
Generally speaking, dual billing customers are able to pay with either credit card or ACH unless otherwise noted here and/or in their Product Card descriptions on ThinkEnergy.com. Our aim is to offer as many options as possible, so be aware that utilities may include separate products with the same discount, but different payment options (ie. ACH only or Credit Card only).
