A new Cincinnati program that allows people to explore affordable solar energy is available to residents, small businesses and small nonprofits in Southwest Ohio, according to a press release from city officials.
The city of Cincinnati's Office of Environment & Sustainability is launching the Southwest Ohio 2026 Solar Co-op Program that will allow people in multiple municipalities and counties − including Hamilton, Clermont, Warren, Montgomery, Clinton, Brown, Greene, Preble, Darke, Miami and Clark − to pursue renewable energy options through a community-based purchasing model.
"The solar co-op approach is a win-win for both solar energy buyers and system installers. Bulk purchasing helps to cut the costs of going solar, which is more important
than ever as electricity prices continue to increase,” said Nikki Vandivort, the city's clean energy & climate resilience manager.
The program brings together building owners interested in solar energy to leverage group-buying power, allowing competitive pricing on solar panels, as well as easier, more transparent and more cost-effective energy systems. For example, the projected annual savings on Duke Energy bills for a home or business that purchases a 5-kilowatt solar panel is roughly $1,000, according to Solar United Neighbors, a nonprofit working to expand solar access and partner to the city of Cincinnati's co-op program.
Solar United Neighbors will also provide educational resources, technical expertise and support throughout the process.
Participants in the free co-op will learn about solar technology, financing options, incentives and the installation process. A solar installer will be competitively selected, with pricing and services negotiated on behalf of the group. Once an installer is selected, households and building owners can decide whether to opt in, according to the city's press release.
Those interested in learning more or joining the cohort can visit the program website. New members should join before Dec. 1, 2026.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati launches solar program to expand access to clean energy
