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 Douglas: Douglas Falch and his brother Denis of Winona, MN are now retired after working at the Winona Dairy Queen for many years. They found the community solar subscription process very straightforward and are happy with Tri-County Electric Cooperative’s management of the Renewable Rays community solar garden project.
CERTs: Why did you decide to subscribe to the Tri-County Electric Cooperative’s Renewable Rays community solar project?
Douglas: My brother Denis and I were thinking about solar panels for our home. We saw that our power company, Tri-County Electric Cooperative, was offering to sell solar panels and we thought it was a great idea. They are a well respected energy supplier and we knew that they would produce a good product and take care of the panels once they were installed.
CERTs: What was the process like to subscribe?
Douglas: To subscribe and purchase a panel was really easy. They had a set price for each panel and after we decided to purchase them, we just brought a check to their office and paid for them. It was really simple. In a few months, after our purchase, the panels were up and operating.
CERTs: How did you decide how much solar to get?
Douglas: We decided to purchase four panels. After talking it over we thought two apiece would be great, so that’s what we went for.
CERTs: What has the impact been on your energy bill?
Douglas: There was a reduction in our energy bill and we appreciate that fact. We also are glad to be able to use an alternate form of energy to reduce the pollution of our fragile environment.
CERTs: What are you doing to tell others about community solar, if anything?
Douglas: We are really not ones to talk about our decisions. We just keep quiet about our purchase. But we think it was a great idea and we are happy to be part of the project.
CERTs: What would you tell a friend if they asked about community solar gardens?
Douglas: I would tell anyone that it is a great way to reduce your energy bill and you do not have to be looking at panels in your yard or on the roof. The maintenance and insurance are all included in your original purchase.
To learn more about the Tri-County Electric Cooperative Renewable Rays community solar garden, click here to visit their website. You can also check out the map and photos below.
Community solar garden location:
Check out photos below to see the community solar garden grow:
Watch a video of the community solar garden dedication:
More interviews with community solar subscribers:
- Christine and Tom Custer of Brownsville, MN
- Eric Schilling and family of Ham Lake, MN
- David Schmidt of Corcoran, MN
- Rachel and John Egan of Blaine, MN
- Jim and Carol Johnson of Pelican Rapids, MN
- Gary and Betty Dagen of Barnesville, 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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The Get Answers series on the Energy Stories Blog offers useful tips from CERTs and our partners to help you get to the bottom of your energy efficiency and renewable energy questions. Click here to see more stories in the series >> |
