Renewable Energy Jobs tagged "Community Solar"

Community Solar Jobs

Community solar is the distributed generation model where multiple subscribers share the output of a single solar project, typically through bill credits. With 7.87 GW operational across 44 U.S. states as of mid-2024, the field creates jobs that bridge project development, software platforms, and community engagement in ways distinct from traditional utility-scale solar energy.

What Makes Community Solar Different

The common misconception is that community solar is just smaller-scale solar development. In practice, these roles involve unique challenges around subscriber acquisition and retention, billing system integration, and navigating state-specific policy frameworks. Unlike utility-scale projects with a single off-taker, community solar requires ongoing customer management, revenue assurance, and regulatory compliance across diverse subscriber bases.

Job titles reveal this complexity. Roles like "Community Solar Subscriber Revenue Assurance" and "Subscription Analyst" exist specifically to manage the billing credits and customer accounts that define this model. Meanwhile, companies need software engineers to build platforms connecting subscribers to projects, and community organizers to reach underserved populations, particularly in the 20 states with low-income access provisions.

Company Types and Career Paths

Three distinct employer categories dominate. Project developers like Nautilus Solar Energy, BlueWave, and OYA Renewables handle site origination through operations. Technology platforms such as Arcadia and Common Energy focus on subscriber management software and marketplace services. Advocacy organizations like Solar United Neighbors combine policy work with direct community organizing.

This split creates varied entry points. Engineers and project development professionals from utility-scale solar can transition into development roles, while those from SaaS companies or customer operations find opportunities in platform businesses. Community organizers and policy specialists are equally valued, especially as states expand enabling legislation.

Market Direction

Geographic concentration drives opportunity. Florida, New York, Massachusetts, and Minnesota represent over 75% of deployed capacity, but recent state policy activity suggests expansion. Companies increasingly seek hybrid skills: operations analysts who understand both technical performance and subscriber billing, or business developers who can navigate both project finance and community engagement. As virtual power plant concepts gain traction, expect growing demand for roles that integrate community solar into broader grid services and demand response programs.