Community Solar Gardens are centrally-located solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that provide electricity to participating subscribers, and they’re taking root in Minnesota. Here at CERTs we wanted to learn more about the experiences of subscribers in Minnesota and share them with others who are curious about community solar.
Meet Gary and Betty: Gary and Betty Dagen are both retired and live in Barnesville, MN. Based on their desire to reduce their environmental impact, they bought as much solar from the Lake Region Electric Cooperative (LREC) as the community solar program would allow.
CERTs: Why did you decide to subscribe to the Lake Region Electric Cooperative community solar project?
Gary and Betty: We decided to lower our carbon footprint and solar panels at our home in the woods were not feasible.
CERTs: What was the process like to subscribe?
G & B: After discussing the process with LREC it was a simple form to fill out.
CERTs: How did you decide how much solar to get?
G & B: We decided to purchase as much as LREC would allow. This was dependent on our usage, which is quite low.
CERTs: What has the impact been on your energy bill?
G & B: The impact is marginal, but we’re happy with our pollution-free energy.
CERTs: What would you tell a friend if they asked about community solar gardens?
G & B: Do it for the planet and our children.
To learn more about the Lake Region Community Solar program, click here to visit their website. You can also check out the map and photos below.
Community solar garden location:
Check out these photos to watch the LREC community solar garden grow:
More interviews with community solar subscribers:
- Jim and Carol Johnson of Pelican Rapids, MN
- Christine and Tom Custer of Brownsville, MN
- Douglas and Dennis Falch of Winona, MN
- Eric Schilling and family of Ham Lake, MN
- David Schmidt of Corcoran, MN
- Rachel and John Egan of Blaine, MN
Community Solar Gardens are centrally-located solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that provide electricity to participating subscribers. Could it work for you?Are you interested in going solar but unable to do so on your own? Perhaps you live in an apartment, have a shaded roof at home, or don’t have space at your organization. Where do you want to start? |
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