Imagine being able to power your home with solar energy without installing a single panel. That’s the magic of community solar projects, and they’re taking off in New York. But there’s a catch: their future could be in jeopardy.

Take Old Hill Farms, for example. This former dairy farm in Yorktown, just an hour north of New York City, now generates enough solar energy to light up 700 homes. Residents from nearby towns like Yonkers and even Downtown Brooklyn are reaping the benefits—all without lifting a finger.

Here’s how it works: property owners lease their land or rooftops to solar developers. The power generated is sold to utility companies, which then feed it into the electric grid. Subscribers get a sweet discount on their utility bills, usually between 5% and 20%.

For city dwellers, especially renters or those in tight urban spaces, these projects are a game-changer. Installing personal solar panels isn’t always an option, but community initiatives make renewable energy accessible to everyone.

Over the past five years, the number of community solar projects in New York City and Westchester County has skyrocketed—from just 72 to a whopping 700. About 78,000 households are now part of the movement, and the numbers are climbing.

But here’s the twist: while these projects are thriving, their future isn’t guaranteed. Political shifts, particularly changes at the federal level under leadership like former President Trump, could put them at risk.

Community solar isn’t just about clean energy—it’s about leveling the playing field. Whether you live in a sprawling suburb or a cramped city apartment, these projects are proving that renewable energy can work for everyone. Let’s hope they stick around.