Grow Solar Jefferson/Waukesha Strengthens Communities & Economy

JEFFERSON & WAUKESHA COUNTIES — The best way to strengthen our local economies and create local jobs is by keeping our money local. That means shopping locally, eating locally, and yes, generating our energy locally.

Solar group buy programs like Grow Solar Jefferson/Waukesha strengthen local economies and create local jobs by empowering community members to keep their energy dollars at home through an investment in solar energy. The program is built on the belief that communities are stronger when they’re composed of informed citizens and that it’s important for each individual to have a strong foundation of understanding about the technologies available to them in order to make smart decisions about their energy future.

Grow Solar, an initiative of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA), helps make navigating the solar industry easier and more affordable for individuals with its Power Hour education sessions and limited-time group buy discount program. The more properties that add solar through the program, the lower the price for all. The program offers free educational sessions to help residents and small business owners decide if going solar is right for them.

“Jefferson and Waukesha County residents, farmers and businesses have an opportunity to ‘own’ their energy, and in the process, retain millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on utility costs,” said Frankie Fuller of Heart of the City, a Fort Atkinson-based nonprofit. “Solar power is an economic development engine that will retain energy dollars locally, helping to fuel wealth and prosperity right here at home.”

Through a competitive proposal process, the Waukesha County Green Team, Heart of the City/Fort Atkinson, and Midwest Renewable Energy Association selected All Energy Solar as the program’s installer for their high-quality, competitive price, and qualifications. Everyone who participates in a Solar Power Hour will be able to get a free, no-obligation site assessment/ cost estimate to see if solar makes sense for their property.

“The economic benefit of solar mirrors the economic benefit of owning one’s home,” said Peter Murphy, Solar Program Director for the MREA. “With solar, you own the means of producing your electricity. Without solar, you’re essentially renting your electricity.”

“We’re trying to simplify the process of going solar,” said Murphy. “It can seem complicated, so we present clear information and answer folks’ questions at our Solar Power Hours and then they can determine for themselves whether solar is right for them.”

As part of the program, the more properties that join the group buy, the more everyone can save as the volume rebate increases. Rebates could range from around $350 to around $1,400 for the average system size of 7kW, depending on participation. The program is happy to announce that it has reached its second benchmark of 150kW triggering a $150 per kilowatt rebate for each property.

Can’t make it to the final Power Hours?

Visit the program’s virtual resource packet to watch a recorded Power Hour, visit helpful links, and get involved before the program ends.

To learn more about the program visit www.JeffersonWaukesha.GrowSolar.org

The MREA was incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit shortly after the first Energy Fair in 1990. MREA’s mission is to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration. To learn more, call 715-592-6595 or visit www.midwestrenew.org