Due to COVID-19, in 2020 ASES launched its all-virtual National Solar Tour – the first in the Tour’s 25-year history. Adoption of solar grows through word-of-mouth, and allowing participants to learn about local solar policies, the solar installation process, PV technologies available and more from each other perpetuates the increased adoption of solar nationally. Like any new format, going 100% virtual has provided useful lessons and ASES is looking to develop and expand upon a more robust platform supporting both virtual and in-person tours in 2021. ASES’ goal is to have 20,000 participants engaged in this new hybrid approach, including holding 1,500 individual open houses nationwide.

The ASES team knows from experience that knowledge and community are a powerful combination for change. The National Solar Tour is a perfect example of this belief. Like the visionaries who began this solar journey, ASES leadership continues to rise to the challenges of today by advocating for sustainable living and working towards a future of 100% renewable energy.

For more information: www.ases.org

With the help of a grant from All Points North Foundation, Bend International plans to immerse its students in the world of solar power by installing a 42.7 kW solar system on its new gymnasium roof. Installing the system will offset Bend International’s electricity usage by approximately 70-80 percent, generating thousands of dollars in cost savings annually. The project will also provide for the integration of lessons on solar energy into every classroom and, therefore, expand the school’s overall STEM education initiative. A new display at the entrance will demonstrate the amount of energy generated, how much carbon is offset and how different factors affect energy production.
The solar panel project is part of Bend International School’s commitment to global sustainability and its efforts to expose students at early ages to the benefits of green infrastructure and how renewable energy, such as solar, is key to their own sustainable futures.

For more information: www.bendinternationalschool.org

Now, committed as ever to the community’s preservation and growth, Dell’Arte is embarking on a solar energy project that will increase the theatre’s energy efficiency and utilize the region’s available solar power. By installing a 17kW solar generator, the theatre will offset between 50 and 70 percent of its electricity use and ultimately achieve a high level of energy independence – a strategic vision for the Blue Lake community and the larger state of California.

But Dell’Arte has an even loftier goal in mind. By investing in solar technology, the theatre hopes to bring solar awareness to its community and serve as a catalyst for area residents, businesses and other nonprofits. For rural towns like Blue Lake – where access to high technology is inconsistent – energy independence can reduce costs, increase efficiency, and lead to sustainable operations.

By shining a spotlight on solar power, Dell’Arte continues to lead by example, both on and off the stage, and protect an environment and community vital to the organization’s success.

For more information: www.dellarte.com

Since 2015, GRID’s Tribal Program has completed more than 30 solar projects in partnership with the Navajo Nation, empowering tribal members through capacity building and real-world installation training. Over the next three years, GRID will build upon this work, deploying more than 35 additional installations, and bringing an estimated $550,000 in long-term energy savings to Navajo Nation tribal communities in New Mexico.
In addition, GRID will continue to incorporate hands-on installation experiences for local tribal members, including via partnerships with tribal college and/or university students. This project marks the fourth time that All Points North Foundation has joined forces with GRID to help tribal communities achieve their renewable energy goals, and is the first solar multi-year grant awarded by All Points North Foundation.
Historically, communities throughout the Navajo Nation have depended upon energy development related to uranium mining, coal-powered plants and natural gas. GRID’s innovative approach provides a local model to inform the transition to clean energy across Navajo Nation.

For more information: www.gridalternatives.org

Through All Points North Foundation support, the Habitat-Mercer University partnership will provide five highly energy-efficient Habitat homes with grid-tied rooftop solar PV systems at no cost. The individual systems will offset approximately 80-100% of each home’s annual energy needs, saving an estimated 6,400 kilowatt hours of fossil fuel-sourced electricity, resulting in nearly $1,000 in savings per year for each homeowner. Even more unique is that the partnership will be led by Mercer University students with support from a consultant accredited by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners to assist in the PV system’s design and installation, and in training of both local technicians and Habitat construction staff.

The Macon Area Habitat for Humanity has been building quality homes for low-income, first-time homebuyers since 1986, and finding ways to increase access to solar to lower electricity costs in these homes aids in ensuring affordable homeownership. Habitat for Humanity has more than 1,500 local U.S. affiliates, and the Macon Area Habitat’s partnership with Mercer University can stand as a model for replication elsewhere.

For more information: www.maconhabitat.org

Providing a unique educational experience, the Hike Inn promotes physical health, environmental awareness and stewardship, and hands on application of sustainability. From a small photovoltaic system and passive solar thermal water systems to the composting of food waste and recycling for waste diversion, the Hike Inn leads the way in sustainable operations for Georgia State Park facilities.

As a unique learning resource center, it continues to inspire environmental stewardship with its latest project, Above the Grid. This energy literacy project includes both installing a new photovoltaic solar system to increase solar electric power and improve sustainability operations, and promoting solar technology innovation through education outreach targeted to adults and youth. In 2017, the Hike Inn will install a new 53.72 kWh system, providing up to 69% of their electric energy needs from solar power, and promoting solar energy education and awareness in the process.

For more information: www.hike-inn.com

The solar plus storage system is designed to run the school’s critical loads such as lighting and refrigeration for over two hours in islanding mode. If the grid goes down, the school will continue to receive electricity. During the day, the school can run loads with a 30kW solar PV system while still being able to sufficiently recharge the batteries. The design allows for expandable storage should the school see a need for more autonomy in the future. The provision also enables the school to serve as a community center for distributing aid and providing shelter during future natural disasters. On top of its resiliency factor, the solar system is estimated to produce over 41,000 kWh annually of clean electricity.

While the disaster has left an indelible imprint on the lives of many, more than a year later INE is intent on ensuring its schools are equipped with a more resilient grid.  The catastrophic event has not dampened INE’s spirit as it remains focused on its primary mission of quality education and “to achieve peace in Puerto Rico through an excellent school for all.”

For more information: www.inepr.com

A real time monitoring display unit on the outside of the building will provide the public with information on energy consumption and savings, creating constant awareness about the benefits of solar energy. Local students will have the opportunity to be educated on PV energy, as the LCCC will coordinate on-site visits for both private and public area schools. In addition, LCCC will highlight the positives of solar energy through lectures and tours of the building, and by producing a flyer for the 16,000 visitors who come through the doors every year.  A special celebration will also be held to commission this new solar system during a dedication ceremony, where local dignitaries, politicians, members and the public will be invited to attend.

While the mission of the LCCC is primarily to promote cultural enrichment programs and events, and provide a gathering place for the community, the new PV solar system guarantees that the Old Art Building will continue to be a significant part of Leelanau history for years to come.

For more information: www.oldartbuilding.com

Tallahassee-based MoLab has partnered with All Points North Foundation on a new program, the MoBus Solar Science Sustainability Lab, to provide solar science education to nine Title 1 middle schools in Florida’s Leon and Gadsden Counties, with activities ensuring physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of this programming, the first six months of the MoLab project will include completing the transformation of the MoBus: installation of a vehicle wrap to generate excitement and additional lab equipment for use with a new curriculum, installation of solar panels on the bus to power lab activities, development of a film introducing students to solar energy and conversion of the MoBus to a more sustainable vegetable waste oil fuel source. While the focus of the curriculum will be on solar, this clean energy technology provides an excellent introduction to STEM programming, such as understanding circuitry and electricity and helping students recognize the connection between energy and all living things.

MoLab’s founders know having access to STEM education opportunities is a critical component in raising up underserved communities and schools, and also helps to bridge the ethnic and gender gaps seen in math and science fields. As school budgets and out-of-classroom experiences are reduced, MoLab brings hands-on solar programing to those who need it most.

For more information: www.tallymolab.org

NWIC is partnering with Remote Energy and All Points North Foundation to conduct a new hands-on solar energy technical and vocational training program for students and local solar technicians with the goal of developing a renewable energy workforce among Indigenous communities. The program will include the construction of a “mock” roof on NWIC’s campus and the installation of a 2.4 kW grid direct solar energy system. The “mock” roof installation will, in turn, serve as the hands-on lab for a series of teacher-training courses and, ultimately, workshops and classes for engineering students and Tribal technicians interested in all aspects of solar installations and solar workplace protocols.

In addition, this new solar training program will be central to eventually expanding NWIC’s two-year pre-engineering curriculum into a four-year engineering degree program focused on renewable energy, including Smart Grid and Microgrid technologies − an effort that represents another important step toward the goal of achieving energy sovereignty at Lummi Nation.

For more information: www.nwic.edu

With the help of a grant from All Points North Foundation, ORIS will install a 142kW DC solar array at the farm that will generate an estimated 181,200 kWh annually.

The power will support operations at the farm, and additionally, through a unique utility model, the energy savings from the solar panels will be passed back to the individual farm members. That transfer will reduce their respective power bills by approximately $864 per year on average, generating thousands of dollars in savings annually for the new American farmers.

This large solar array and the unique utility model provide ORIS with a new opportunity in their mission to aid in resettlement of refugees and immigrants. The solar array will provide cost savings to ORIS Fresh Start Farms, as well as savings to the individual refugee families ORIS supports.

For more information: www.refugeesuccess.org

Students collaborate with community professionals who mentor these “energy superheroes.” Students sleuth ways to save energy at school and at home. Past competitions have averaged a 16% energy savings with some schools saving as much as 30%. Schools are provided curriculum and solar kits from Need.org to ensure that solar and energy education is not just a one-month lesson but a lifelong way of energy-conscious living. Additionally, the process brings new learnings to teachers and students, who see their efforts in this STEM-based education initiative turn into dramatic cost savings for schools.

The ReNew Our Schools’ energy competition has empowered thousands of K-12 students to become energy stewards who prioritize conservation for years to come.

For more information: www.conservationcenter.org/renew-our-schools

A new display at the materials yard will share the amount of energy generated by solar power and costs saved. Additionally, the project scope will include the installation of a “solar picnic table” for charging electronic devices such as phones and iPads, which will showcase an understandable, real-world example of the benefit of solar energy.

These innovative educational tools, paired with the new cost-saving solar panels, are part of Resource Central’s mission to put conservation into action and help their thriving community live more sustainably.

For more information: resourcecentral.org

The training will include experience installing solar photovoltaic systems on the homes of low-income residents in partnership with GRID Alternatives, but also will explore other potential job opportunities within the solar industry including design, sales, and permitting. Opportunity Build graduates receive certificates recognized by the solar industry.

All Opportunity Build Solar participants are low income and have experienced roadblocks to consistent employment. Through this program, Rising Sun offers these individuals a pathway out of poverty through a career that offers livable wages and good benefits, while building the clean energy future we need.

Rising Sun adheres to four key values which will all play a role in this project: 1) belief in human potential: when people realize their potential, they can make a difference in their communities, 2) belief that economic, environmental, and social opportunities should be accessible to everyone, 3) belief that resource conservation is a shared responsibility, 4) commitment to achieving tangible results through environmental and social impact.

For more information: www.risingsunopp.org

With the help of a grant from All Points North Foundation, Rooted Homes will install a 12 panel 4.8 kW solar array on the roof of each of the five homes. By utilizing the latest construction techniques in conjunction with the solar panels, this will enable the homes to achieve “net zero” energy usage, offsetting approximately 6,500kWh of electricity in the first year of occupancy resulting in savings of up to $680 annually.

This solar project, new construction techniques and unique approach to homeownership allow Rooted Homes to serve their dual mission of sustainability and affordability.

For more information: rootedhomes.org

Now, with an All Points North Foundation grant, Safe Haven Farms is pursuing another dream: to convert 40-45 percent of its electricity use to solar energy.

Safe Haven Farms, with the help of Third Sun Solar, will install a 69 kW DC solar PV system on elevated ground mounts to allow for a pollinator garden with native plants to grow beneath it. The solar system installation will help reduce electricity bills and allow funds to be redirected to various farm programs that directly impact the lives of those served. Additionally, the mounted panels and native species garden will enable Safe Haven Farms to incorporate solar energy education into its year-round tours for school groups, families, visitors and volunteers.

Safe Haven Farms looks forward to achieving its clean energy dream, a goal since inception, to showcase the benefits of clean, green energy and a reduced carbon footprint for its surrounding community.

For more information: https://www.safehavenfarms.org

In 2019, nine people from six tribes were engaged in in-depth solar upskilling in Grid-Direct, Off-Grid and energy storage system designs, with these trainees then training another 10 individuals. In program year two, they will train yet another cohort. T4 alumni will further engage their Native American communities in a number of ways, including co-teaching solar classes or participating in a local solar project.

The need for training in these communities is great; currently the U.S. has 567 federally-recognized Native American and Alaskan Native Tribes, and many members suffer from high rates of poverty and unemployment. The Energy Information Administration estimates that 14 percent of households have no access to electricity – 10 times higher than the national average. At the same time, the green job sector has grown in the past five years and new data shows that solar installer will be the fastest-growing job in America over the next decade. T4 will help to further increase these numbers, and allow employment, training and entrepreneurial start-ups to thrive and prosper as energy sovereignty for Tribal communities grows

For more information: www.solarenergy.org and www.redcloudrenewable.org

The idea behind this project is for SEI to provide training, equipment, curriculum, and execute co-teaching/mentorship to RCR. RCR will then have an increased capacity to offer and implement week long, hands-on solar electric lab classes to Native Americans.

Currently there are 567 federally recognized Native American and Alaskan Native Tribes in the U.S. Many in these communities suffer from high rates of poverty and unemployment. The Energy Information Administration estimates that 14 percent of households have no access to electricity, which is 10 times higher than the national average. Incidentally, the green job sector has grown in the past five years. The U.S. government has new data which shows that the solar installer will be the fastest-growing job in America over the next 10 years. Programs like ‘Train the Trainer’ provide opportunities to further increase these numbers, and allow employment, training and entrepreneurial start-ups to thrive and prosper while also increasing energy sovereignty for Tribal communities.

For more information: www.solarenergy.org
www.redcloudrenewable.org

By close of 2015, SUN had recruited more than 5,500 solar co-op members, implemented 60 co-ops, and oversaw the installation of more than 1,000 solar systems, resulting in 6 mW of solar power through on-the-ground programs. Additionally, SUN has facilitated $18 million in solar investments, helping to create new jobs.

SUN’s ambitious education outreach builds awareness of distributed solar, amplifies success stories, shares best practices for deploying projects, and grows contagious support for community solar. Analysis and case studies on community solar projects provide citizens with resources on how to create positive change in their own communities. A monthly newsletter covers key issues, tips and tools in the community renewables space and shines a spotlight on innovative projects that can be replicated.

SUN will especially highlight the innovative work in states that have less developed solar markets and policies, including Florida, Ohio, and West Virginia. Most importantly, SUN communications will target all “practitioners” and citizens who have an interest in a future where every community participates in the financial benefits of solar energy diversification.

For more information: www.solarunitedneighbors.com

Spark Northwest’s Solarize program has to date educated almost 5,000 people and helped over 1,000 families and businesses go solar through a grassroots group purchase model.

Solarize the Land Trust is the first solar group purchase for a community land trust, which will provide affordable solar installations for Homestead’s income-qualified homeowners. A community land trust creates permanently affordable homeownership opportunities for low and moderate income residents. By combining a group purchase negotiation with low-interest financing and grants, Solarize the Land Trust will bring affordable solar to permanently affordable housing. Spark Northwest will work together with the Homestead to educate 200 people about adding solar to their homes, and to help six homeowners install solar with very little upfront cost. The project will be a model for other land trusts across the country to bring the benefits of solar to affordable homes, including reducing housing-related energy costs.

For more information: www.sparknorthwest.org

Spark Northwest, a nonprofit organization founded in 2001, works at the local level to speed the region’s transition to affordable, community-controlled clean energy through renewable energy programs and policy reform in Washington and Oregon. Spark Northwest’s Solarize program has educated nearly 5,000 people and helped more than 1,000 families and businesses go solar via a grassroots group-purchase model.

In 2019, the first Solarize the Land Trust program launched with successful solar installs for ten Homestead Community Land Trust homeowners in Seattle, Washington. In 2020, the model will be replicated for ten families on Proud Ground, a land trust in Portland, Oregon. It is estimated these families combined will save more than 770,000 kWh of electricity during the first 20 years—a combined savings of more than $110,000. The project will serve as a model for land trusts across the country to bring the benefits of solar to affordable homes to reduce housing-related energy costs.

For more information: www.sparknorthwest.org