Two virtual information sessions scheduled
WARRENTON, VA – (July 26, 2023) – Solarize Piedmont 2023, a Piedmont Environmental Council campaign in partnership with the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) and participating municipalities, is running now through August 31. Solarize Piedmont makes switching to solar cheaper and easier for homeowners and business owners because LEAP does the leg work for them and connects them with pre-vetted, high-quality installers offering discounted rates. For those thinking about going solar, LEAP provides a free satellite assessment to ensure the property is viable for solar.
In support of Virginia’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Solarize Piedmont is part of the broader Solarize Virginia program and is available to those in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties, and the City of Charlottesville. For more details, Solarize Virginia is offering virtual information sessions on Aug. 1 at 6 p.m., and Aug. 17 at 3 p.m. Participants can register at solarizeva.org/events.
Why go solar?
The benefits of solar power are multifold: cost savings, protection from rising utility rates, energy security and independence, and emissions reductions. Additionally, the new 30% federal tax credit allows homeowners and businesses to save more than ever on solar, battery backup and electric vehicle chargers. LEAP will connect participants with more information.
What’s the process?
Now through Aug. 31, those interested in exploring their solar options can learn more and sign up at pecva.org/solarize. Once a participant signs up, the process is initiated by LEAP with a complimentary solar satellite assessment to ensure the property is right for solar. Once the initial solar assessment is completed, one of four vetted campaign installers, already selected through a competitive bidding process, will make a site visit to gather all necessary information and provide a customized proposal unique to your home and energy usage requirements.
If a contract is signed, the installer will obtain all necessary permits, order materials and equipment, and schedule and complete the installation. LEAP provides ongoing customer support and education throughout the solar installation process to make the experience as streamlined and user-friendly as possible. There is absolutely no commitment until, and if, a contract is signed with an installer. This year’s installers within PEC’s service area are Convert Solar, Prospect Solar, Solar Energy World, and Tiger Solar. Over the past seven years, Solarize campaigns throughout the commonwealth have achieved over 1,015 solar power system installations, totaling 9.2 MW of capacity. As residential energy rates continue to rise in the region and emissions take a toll on the environment, the energy cost savings and emission-free power from photovoltaic systems make solar a great investment for both today and tomorrow.
Brian Campbell, LEAP Marketing and Outreach Manager
brianc@leap-va.org; 917-922-9179
Ashish Kapoor, PEC Senior Energy and Climate Policy Analyst
akapoor@pecva.org; 540-347-2334 x7054
The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) works to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. Founded in 1972, PEC is a locally based, community-supported 501(c)3 nonprofit and accredited land trust. At the core of PEC’s approach is a focus on educating, engaging and empowering people to effect positive change in their communities.
The Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Charlottesville, VA. As a trusted nonprofit, LEAP delivers direct education and services for improved energy performance that address climate change; create cost savings for families and businesses; healthier, safer, and more durable buildings; and local jobs and economic growth. Learn more about leap-va.org. Facebook: Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP). Twitter: @LEAP_VA. Instagram: @leap_va | @solarizevirginia