The world's leading community solar provider, Clean Energy Collective (CEC), has announced a partnership with NEC Retail Co-op Electricity to bring community-shared solar to south Texas. CEC will develop a 700 kW (AC) solar PV facility, giving customers the opportunity to own local clean energy generation through CEC's roofless solar program.

This array will be the first large-scale solar garden in the Coastal Bend with 7,000 panels available for purchase by any NEC Retail member. NEC Retail, the only not-for-profit co-op electricity provider in Texas, is able to serve all consumers in Texas who have the ability to choose their electricity provider.

Through the NEC Retail Roofless Community Solar Program, any NEC Retail residential or commercial member-especially those that rent or lease their properties-can purchase 100-Watt panels in the shared array to offset their electric usage charges. CEC's RemoteMeter software will automatically track each member's power generation and integrate into NEC billing system to provide monthly on-bill credits.

"We're pleased to partner with CEC to bring this new and exciting roofless community solar model to fruition," said John L. Sims, CEO at NEC Retail.

"Roofless solar allows the greatest number of consumers to participate in and enjoy the benefits of locally produced clean power. As a member-owned utility, we have gathered feedback from the member-owners over the past year, and they have overwhelmingly given their consent and are ready to take this step forward with their company."

CEC has identified potential sites for the array, which is expected to be completed later this year. The facility will incorporate single-axis tracker technology that follows the sun's path across the sky, maximizing solar exposure and power generation by as much as 15% over traditional fixed systems.

"Community solar has proven to be a win-win for customers and utilities of all kinds, so we are very excited to bring the CEC model to Texas," said Paul Spencer, CEC's chief executive officer. "NEC Retail members are clearly ready and motivated to embrace this roofless solar option. We expect this one will sell out quickly."

With the move into Texas, CEC is now operating community shared solar in 10 states with 20 utility partners, and has more than 50 community solar facilities under its umbrella.

To request additional information regarding the program, please visit NECRooflessSolar.com