HB 5340 set the stage for a new community solar program by 2028. But the PURA deadline to start the process has passed. Here's what that means — and what to do instead.
Community solar allows Connecticut households to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their own roof. You subscribe to a portion of a local solar farm's output and receive bill credits on your electric bill equal to your share of the farm's production.
Key benefit: You don't need a suitable roof, you don't own the system, and you can benefit from solar credits even as a renter.
| Program Element | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Legal Framework | HB 5340 signed — programs extended through 2035 |
| Community Solar Launch Target | 2028 (per HB 5340) |
| PURA Program Design Deadline | August 1, 2026 — MISSED |
| PURA Proceeding Status | Not yet initiated (as of Aug 13, 2026) |
| Current Community Solar Enrollees | Still receiving credits under prior program |
While community solar waits for its 2028 launch, Connecticut rooftop solar remains fully available and active right now. Here's how they compare:
| Factor | Rooftop Solar | Community Solar (2028+) |
|---|---|---|
| Available now | ✅ Yes | ⏳ Program pending |
| Own your system | ✅ Yes | ❌ No — subscribe to a farm |
| Renter-friendly | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Bill credit rate | Full retail rate | TBD by PURA |
| CT incentives | Sales tax exemption, property tax exemption, Smart-E financing, ESS battery | TBD |
| Property value impact | ✅ Increases home value | Neutral |
| Long-term certainty | ✅ Lock in your rate | ⏳ Program TBD |
While community solar navigates a delayed launch, Connecticut's electricity rates remain among the highest in America — and they're going up.
Every month without solar, Connecticut homeowners send more money to utilities facing approved rate increases and pending hikes. Rooftop solar lets you lock in a predictable electricity rate for 20–25 years.
PURA is expected to initiate a formal proceeding to design the new community solar program. The proceeding will establish:
Community solar in 2026 is in a waiting period. The legal framework is set; the program design is not yet started. For homeowners who want solar benefits now, rooftop solar is the established, immediately available path.
Rooftop solar is available today in Connecticut. With rates rising and programs extended through 2035, there's no reason to wait.
Get a Free CT Solar QuoteSolarConnecticut.net provides Connecticut solar information as a public service. Rates and program details are subject to change. Verify current incentives with the Connecticut Green Bank, PURA (pura.ct.gov), or a licensed Connecticut solar installer.