Path-Q Solar

How should a landlord compare solar quotes for a multi-unit property with separate tenant meters?

Answer

Compare quotes based on which meters and loads the system can legally and technically serve, how production or bill benefits are allocated, who owns the equipment, and how tenant changes are handled. A proposal that looks attractive for the whole property may not deliver equivalent benefits to the landlord or each tenant.

Key points

  • Map every meter, account, common-area load, landlord load, and tenant load before comparing designs.
  • Ask how generation is allocated, credited, measured, and reconciled among meters.
  • Compare roof, electrical, service-capacity, safety, and access requirements for the whole property.
  • Address tenant consent, leases, billing disclosures, ownership, maintenance, and future vacancies.

What it depends on

  • The property's meter configuration and ownership structure
  • Applicable utility, billing, tenant, and interconnection rules
  • Tenant electricity-use patterns and lease arrangements

Risks and trade-offs

  • A system may reduce common-area costs while offering little direct benefit to tenants.
  • Allocation and billing complexity can create disputes or administrative cost.
  • Tenant turnover and changes in use can alter the expected value.

Information you may need

  • A meter and load schedule with historical usage
  • Each quote's allocation, ownership, and billing assumptions
  • Lease, tenant-consent, maintenance, and responsibility requirements

Your next step

What to do next

Have each installer model the same meter-by-meter scope and provide a written allocation and responsibility plan for landlord, common areas, and tenants.

Path-Q

Find the right next step

Answer a few questions and we’ll narrow your options.

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Some details may depend on your location, installer, utility, incentives, regulations, or specific property.

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