Mainers take charge: Own a power Plant through member-owned community solar 

COURTESY OF REVISION ENERGY

Across Maine, more residents are discovering the real benefits of owning a stake in locally generated power, thanks to ReVision Energy’s innovative Member-Owned Community Solar projects. Unlike traditional subscription-based solar farms, ReVision Energy’s model allows Mainers to directly own part of a large renewable energy project—providing tangible financial savings, meaningful environmental benefits, and greater control over their energy independence. 

How Member-Owned Community Solar Works:

• You purchase a share in a local community solar project sized to cover all or some of your electric bill

• You receive credits directly on your monthly electric bill for each unit of solar electricity your share produces

• You receive a 30% tax credit when you file your taxes for 2025, further boosting your saving

• Your shares are fully transferable within CMP territory, whether this happens by passing it to an heir or by selling it to a third party.

This inclusive model ensures everyone, including apartment renters, condo owners and part-time residents, can become a power plant owner.

“As an employee-owned company, we’re committed to ensuring that solar benefits build long-term wealth for Mainers. Unlike subscription models, which are more profitable for developers, member-owned community solar directly benefits residents with tax credits and bill savings—just like on-site solar. Member-owners receive all the same benefits of their own clean energy generation even though they don’t have panels on their property.” 

– Thomas Tutor, residential sales manager at ReVision Energy.

Solar with Integrity

ReVision Energy’s ownership model differs dramatically from subscription programs, which have faced criticism in Maine for misleading advertising, unclear warranties, and unexpected fees. ReVision Energy emphasizes transparency through honest communication, straightforward financial returns, and detailed explanations of electricity credits. 

Life as a Power Plant Owner 

Nancy and Nate Nickerson, member owners of community solar, said, “Our primary motivation was to change to a greener lifestyle and mitigate our personal carbon footprint. We’re increasingly aware of the need to get ourselves off fossil fuels. The impact of burning oil and gas on the planet is just devastating. But now, we haven’t had an oil delivery in two years.”

Member-owned community solar delivers financial benefits while empowering Mainers to electrify their homes. Longtime member-owners Jon Biehler and Karin Sadtler used their community solar benefits to invest in efficient heat pumps and battery storage, cutting fossil fuel use and improving year-round comfort. As they phased in electrification, they later purchased a second community solar share to fully offset their electric bill. 

Investing in member-owned community solar isn’t just about savings—it’s about choosing to have your money work for you, while owning an asset that provides all the benefits of solar energy. It’s an opportunity to build wealth and contribute to a more equitable, community-driven power grid.