Phoenix Solar Co-op Aims to Cut Energy Costs
Nonprofit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) announced the launch of the Phoenix Solar Co-op to help Phoenix-area residents go solar together. The solar co-op is an opportunity for local homeowners and small businesses to learn about solar energy and if it is right for them.
“Going solar is a way to get ahead of rising energy costs,” said Jess White, Solar United Neighbors Arizona Program Associate. “The solar co-op guides members every step of the way to give you peace of mind when going solar.”
The solar co-op is free to join and open to homeowners and business owners in the Phoenix metro area. Together, solar co-op members will learn about solar energy and leverage their numbers to purchase individual solar systems at a competitive price and top quality.
After a competitive bidding process facilitated by SUN, which remains vendor neutral, solar co-op members will select a single solar company to complete the installations. Joining the solar co-op does not obligate members to purchase solar. Instead, members will have the option to individually purchase panels, batteries and/or electric vehicle chargers based on the installer’s group rate.
Drive Electric AZ is partnering with Solar United Neighbors to help spread word about the solar co-op.
“When we moved into our new home in North Scottsdale, the very first thing we did was join a Solar United Neighbors co-op,” said John Martinson, President of Drive Electric AZ. “We got a great price, amazing service, a full roof solar system with micro-inverters, 2 Tesla Powerwalls, and an EV Wall Charger. That was 5 years ago. We are more than pleased with Solar United Neighbors. One thing to remember—even if you haven’t yet purchased an EV, have your installer put in the conduit. You’ll thank yourself later.”
Vote Solar is also partnering with SUN again for this campaign. West Regional Director Itzel Rios-Vega said, “Arizona families are looking for practical ways to lower their energy bills, and programs like this help make solar more affordable and accessible. Solar co-ops give people trusted information, stronger purchasing power, and a clearer path to choosing clean energy that works for their homes and budgets.”
SUN has hosted 26 solar co-ops in Arizona since 2019. According to the group’s estimates, the nearly 600 homes and businesses that now have solar panels because of co-ops represent: 4.8 MW of solar power, more than 100 jobs created, and more than $25 million in lifetime energy savings.
SUN will host several free information sessions to educate community members about solar energy and the co-op. Individuals interested in going solar can sign up for the co-op or one of the upcoming information sessions at the solar co-op web page.
Information meetings are planned for:
About Solar United Neighbors
Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization that works in Arizona and nationwide to represent the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Solar co-ops are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies.