What is a shared photovoltaic business model?

Shared Photovoltaic (PV) business models enable a broader percentage of consumers to benefit from renewable energy because installation and transaction costs are significantly decreased.

Is community solar a part of the Current PV business model?

Community solar is not a part of the current PV business model, but they are the future of the shared PV business model in India. Microgrid are highly acceptable and has high adherence to Indian local regulations. Similarly, RESCO and Utility resellers are part of Indian PV business model.

What are some examples of shared PV projects in India?

Examples of shared PV projects in India Raheja Eternity Apartments in Mumbai is an example of shared PV business, wherein the community owns the rooftop solar system and group net metering is used by the community. However, solar PV installation at Utkal University is the classic example of a third party RESCO gross metered model.

What is a shared PV business model?

From an individual PV perspective, such business models are characterized by companies that install systems on the rooftop of houses or commercial buildings. In a shared PV perspective, such business models are better represented by companies that install systems on the rooftop of condominiums such as multi-family or small business buildings.

What is a community shared solar system?

Coughlin et al. describes “community shared solar” (CSS) as a “solar-electric system that provides power and/or financial benefit to multiple community members” ( Coughlin et al., 2011 p. 3). For the authors, the idea of having multiple and different members sharing the benefits of the PV system defines a community shared business model.

Is there a gap between shared PV business models?

The gap can be seen by the above literature review, where no consensus of the shared PV business model categories exists, and many overlapping classifications have been proposed so far, which undermines the identification of benefits, challenges, and barriers to the different possible shared PV business models.