2016 was a record year for group buy programs in Wisconsin where there were four active solar group buy programs: Milwaukee Shines, MadiSUN, Solar Chippewa Valley and SOLARacine. Together, more than 120 households subscribed to install more than 488 kW of solar photovoltaics (Solar Energy Financing Guide, UW-Extension, May 2017).
In 2017, these programs are continuing to do well. The Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) organized a solar group buy in central Wisconsin that ends September 30, 2017. Thus far, this program is exceeding past levels with 242 kW contracted for by 31 customers. Those systems will be installed by April 2018. Other programs results are not in yet. They include Milwaukee and Wauwatosa through MREA, and RENEW Wisconsin programs in Madison and Middleton.