Solar United Neighbors and the City of Evansville have partnered to launch the 2026 Southwest Indiana Solar Co-op. The solar co-op helps residents explore and adopt solar energy together by providing trusted resources, group purchasing power, and community support throughout the process.

What Is a Solar Co-op?
So, what exactly is a solar co-op?
Picture this: instead of one homeowner approaching a solar company alone, dozens of neighbors come together and say, “We’re all interested in solar energy — what kind of pricing and support can you offer us as a group?”
That’s the power of a solar co-op.
By joining together, community members can access more competitive pricing, trusted information, and a support network that makes going solar less overwhelming and more accessible.
What Members Gain Through a Solar Co-op
Clear, unbiased education about solar
Understanding solar energy can feel complicated at first. Co-op members receive guidance from experts who are focused on helping people make informed decisions based on their own homes, budgets, and energy goals — not selling a specific product.
Support when questions come up
Members have access to ongoing assistance throughout the process, from early research to installation and beyond. Whether you have questions about costs, technology, incentives, or timelines, help is available.
A group-driven installer selection process
Rather than navigating dozens of companies alone, the co-op helps organize and review proposals from solar installers. Members of the co-op can participate in evaluating bids and selecting the installer that best meets the group’s needs.
A sense of community
Going solar becomes easier when you are part of a larger movement. Co-op members connect with neighbors who are also investing in clean energy, creating a shared network of support, learning, and inspiration.
Greater local impact
Solar energy helps reduce pollution, supports cleaner air and water, and creates jobs in the growing clean energy economy. When communities work together through a co-op, those positive impacts can grow even further.
What Is Solar United Neighbors’ Role?
Solar United Neighbors serves as an independent, unbiased resource for people exploring solar energy.
Researching solar can be stressful. Many homeowners and businesses are trying to lower energy costs, improve comfort, and make environmentally responsible choices — all while sorting through a huge amount of information and marketing from competing companies.
That’s where Solar United Neighbors comes in.
Because SUN is not tied to any solar installer or equipment manufacturer, the organization can focus entirely on education and community support. Their goal is to help residents across Southwest Indiana better understand their solar options and feel confident navigating the process.
SUN staff provide educational resources, answer questions, and help communities explore whether solar is the right fit for their homes, businesses, or organizations. They also help organize solar co-ops that allow neighbors to work together to make clean energy more affordable and accessible.
Whether someone is ready to install solar now or simply wants to learn more about renewable energy, SUN helps make the transition to clean energy more approachable, transparent, and community-driven.
Other Projects
Here are some additional projects that Evansville Climate Collaborative has led to serve the Evansville community.

U.S. EPA Community Change Grant
Learn More

Composting Feasibility Study
Learn More

Municipal Fleet Audits
Learn More
