Climate Hawk’s Companion - Solarize Massachusetts

In this edition of the Climate Hawk’s Companion we discuss the Solarize MA program. As the website says “ Solarize Massachusetts (Solarize Mass) is a program that encourages the adoption of small scale solar PV by deploying a coordinated education, marketing and outreach effort, combined with a tiered pricing structure that provides increased savings as more people in the community go solar.” Our podcast guest is Carolyn Barthel, who volunteered to be the “Solar Coach” for the program in the town of Mendon. As a community activist, she has some interesting insight into how to pursue this program. In order to hear the podcast, click on the "Climate Hawk" icon. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center provides some examples of the presentations and survey used in the most recent Solarize Mass cycle. If you are interested in more about residential solar, read this. Both individual residences and small business are permitted to participate in the program. One of the businesses in Mendon that is installing PV is a great place for kids, the Southwick Zoo. As of last November, the program has facilitated contracts across the state for 802 projects totaling 5.1 MW of solar power. The next round of the program is underway, and Green Communities need to express their interest by February 7th, and complete their application by February 20, 2013. Solarize Mass is one of a number of opportunities for grants and assistance that is provided to Green Communities. In order to become a Green Community, a town must satisfy five criteria but then becomes eligible for valuable aid in becoming more sustainable. Here (see “Meet the Green Communities”) is some information about which towns are already Green Communities and what aid they have received. MCAN is ready to assist if you want your town to go the Green Community Status. Good Luck!

…Ted McIntyre