Community Solar vs. Rooftop Solar in 2026: Which Is Right for You?

Not every home is right for rooftop solar — and that's okay. If your roof is shaded, too old, the wrong shape, or you rent, community solar can get you some of the savings without panels on your house. Here's how the two compare in 2026.

Rooftop solar

Panels on your own roof. You get the biggest savings, you own an asset that can add home value (more here), and you control the system. The trade-off: you need a suitable roof and, if buying, the upfront cost.

Community solar

You subscribe to a share of a large solar farm elsewhere in your area and get credits on your utility bill for your share's production. No panels on your roof, usually no upfront cost, and you can typically cancel. The trade-off: savings are smaller (often 5–15% off your bill), you don't own anything, and it doesn't add home value.

Which is right for you?

• Own your home with a decent roof? Rooftop almost always wins on savings and value.
• Rent, or have a shaded/old/complex roof? Community solar lets you save without a roof project.
• Want maximum lifetime savings? Rooftop ownership.
• Want simple, cancellable, zero-commitment savings? Community solar.

One caveat: community solar availability is very state- and utility-specific — widely available in some markets, not offered at all in others.

Not sure which fits your situation? Tell us about your home and we'll tell you honestly whether rooftop or community solar makes more sense — even if the answer is "wait."