Somerville Solar Discount Program Extended

SOMERVILLE, MA – The City of Somerville announced this week it would extend its solar discount program to give residents more time to take advantage of free solar energy consultations and reduced panel rates.

Residents now have until Nov. 23 to schedule a site visit with a vendor and Dec. 16 to decide if they want to go solar.

Through the program, called Solarize Somerville, solar panels are purchased in bulk to lower the cost of installation. According to a spokesperson, this can reduce the cost by up to 20 percent. Approximately 60 residents have signed contracts through Solarize Somerville, and an additional 70 have opted for site visits.

The city's goal is to establish 400 kilowatts of energy in Somerville; if completed, SolarFlair will donate a 5-kilowatt system to a local nonprofit.

Residents who are interested in the program or have questions are invited to stop by the second floor of City Hall Annex, 50 Evergreen Ave., on Thursday, Nov. 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. There, you will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Christine Andrews, Christine Andrews, City of Somerville Housing and Environment Programs Coordinator; Mary Mangan, resident and Solar Coach; and Brian Hession, SolarFlair representative.

Those who have signed contracts may stop by to pick up a free Solarize Somerville t-shirt or hat.

Image via Oregon Department of Transportation, Flickr, used under Creative Commons