Matrix Solar for Multifamily FAQs

Why Matrix Solar?

  • No upfront/capital cost for landlord
  • Landlord will receive roof lease income of $100-$150 per unit per year (depending on cost of system installation and tax credits)
  • No install/operation/maintenance responsibilities for landlord
  • No roof penetrations, system uses ballasted racking system
  • No tax implications for landlord
    • Landlord does not have to own the property for an additional 5 years to fully vest in the investment tax credits
    • Landlord does not have to “offload” the investment tax credits
  • No maintenance/billing responsibilities for landlord
  • Landlord can advertise as a sustainable/green building to potential tenants
  • With net metering, building will always have reliable base power from the utility regardless of solar system status
  • Landlord can pass along some/all roof rent proceeds to tenants to provide rental incentives
  • Some preliminary studies are showing that solar modules help protect a flat roof from the sun, and can extend it’s useful life


Is my property a good candidate for the Matrix Solar program?

  • Newer building built/renovated since 2010 (buildings with newer electric will be considered)
  • Flat roof that can accommodate 20 pounds per square foot (PSF) load
  • At least 75 units (can be in multiple buildings on the same property)
  • Electricity to individual units must be separately metered
  • Local utility can accommodate master/sub/net metering

How does it work?

  1. Landlord will provide Matrix Solar with structural and electrical plans for the building(s)
  2. Matrix will determine if the roof can structurally support solar modules
  3. Matrix will determine if existing electric can accommodate solar system
  4. Matrix will review the tenant lease to ensure installation of the system will comply
  5. Landlord and Matrix will agree to a multiyear roof lease
  6. Matrix will design, permit, purchase, install, operate and maintain solar system
  7. Matrix will work with utility to replace existing individual utility meters with submeters for each unit
  8. Matrix will install commercial net meter between existing tenant meters and electric coming from the grid
  9. Once system is operational, Matrix will start paying landlord monthly roof lease payments
  10. Matrix will bill tenants for electrical usage