How Moving Affects Your Community Solar Subscription in Canada
Written by Solenery
2 min read
Introduction
Moving can be stressful enough without worrying about what happens to your community solar subscription.
If you’re a Canadian renter or homeowner participating in a community solar program, you might wonder: Can I take my solar subscription with me? Will I lose my investment if I change addresses?
In this article, we’ll break down how community solar subscriptions work when you move, the portability options available across Canada, and practical tips to ensure your clean energy benefits continue smoothly—no matter where you live next.
What Is Community Solar Subscription Portability?
Community solar subscriptions let you buy or lease a share of a solar farm’s output, without installing panels on your own roof.
But what happens if you move?
Portability means you can transfer your solar subscription to a new address, keeping your clean energy credits intact.
Non-portability means your subscription ends when you move, and you may forfeit remaining credits or have to sell your share back.
Many Canadian community solar providers offer portable subscriptions, but terms vary.
Example: Toronto’s community solar projects often allow you to keep your subscription if you move within the city or province—but not outside.
How Different Providers Handle Moves Across Canada
Here’s a quick look at how several Canadian providers handle moves:
| Provider/Program | Portability Policy | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bullfrog Power (National) | Transferable within Canada | Requires updating account info and utility details |
| SolarShare (Ontario) | Portable within Ontario | New address must be within service area |
| CoPower (National) | Transfers case-by-case | May require contract adjustment |
| PEI Community Solar | Transferable within PEI | Limits on transferring outside the province |
| BC Community Solar Projects | Varies by project; often provincial-only | Contact provider for details |
Tip: Always check your contract’s fine print or ask your provider about move policies before signing.
Steps to Take Before Moving With a Community Solar Subscription
Notify your provider early: Most require 30–60 days notice.
Confirm new address eligibility: Your new home must be in the service area of the solar project.
Update utility account information: Some programs tie credits to your hydro account number.
Review contract terms: Check for any fees or restrictions on transfer or cancellation.
Pro Tip: Keep documentation of all correspondence and confirmations about your move and subscription transfer.
What If Your New Home Isn’t Covered?
If your new location isn’t served by the same community solar program:
You might need to cancel your current subscription—ask about any cancellation fees or credit refunds.
Look for new community solar options in your new city or province—use Solenery Insights to find programs near you.
Consider alternative clean energy options such as portable solar, green energy utility plans, or rooftop solar if permitted.
Benefits of Portable Community Solar for Renters and Homeowners
Maintain clean energy benefits without roof ownership.
No interruption in green power credits if moving locally.
Flexible participation ideal for renters who may move frequently.
Helps reduce carbon footprint continuously, supporting Canada’s net-zero goals.
Case Study: A Vancouver renter transferred their Bullfrog Power subscription when moving across BC, continuing to support renewable energy without delay or loss.
Conclusion
Moving doesn’t have to mean losing your community solar benefits.
By understanding portability policies, notifying your provider ahead of time, and checking your new address’s eligibility, you can keep powering your home with clean, affordable solar energy wherever you go in Canada.