Porch Solar, Plug-in Solar, Balcony Solar

Plug in solar panel

By Sarah Phillips

The news is full of the rising cost of electricity. The Seattle Times reported on June 18, 2026 that Seattle City Light anticipates rate increases of 9.5 percent for each of the next three years.

Are there any solutions on the horizon?

Maybe, although it is not legal in Washington, several states including Utah and New York are allowing individuals to purchase plug-in solar, also called porch solar or balcony solar.

Three names for the same thing. 

Plug-in solar is an innovation in the solar industry. These units cost between S500-1000, can be purchased at stores like IKEA or Home Depot, and generate solar power for your home. 

The solar panel itself is a small unit that generates a direct current (DC). An inverter converts DC to alternating current (AC), which goes into your house or apartment’s electrical system through a standard wall socket.

The panels are portable

Plug-In solar is being used in Germany. In the last three years over 1 million installations have occurred. 

It is surprisingly simple. Utah and New York have recently passed legislation to allow Plug-in Solar. As of now, Washington state does not allow these units.

The energy from these small units do not fully replace all your energy costs. They are however a low-cost clean energy and they can be used in outage prone areas like Lake Forest Park when the plug-in solar is connected to a battery. 

Because they are portable, they can be moved from one home or apartment to another. Power to the People: How 'Balcony Solar' Could Help Fight Rising Utility Costs

The research suggested that the payback period is about 5 years. The payback period depends on several factors:

• the cost of electricity
• the cost of the initial unit

Can they be purchased in Washington state? Not yet. What needs to happen is similar from state to state.

1. Define a new class of small solar systems, distinguishing plug-in solar from the larger rooftop arrays that existing rules were designed for.
2. Exempt small systems from utility interconnection requirements and approvals, eliminating permitting delays and expensive interconnection fees.
3. Require product safety certifications, protecting both consumers and utility workers.

View YouTube video showing simple installation

Plug-In solar on display

Interested in seeing one of these units for yourself? The LFP Climate Hub and Third Act will be showing off one of these units at the July 19 Farmers Market. Drop by to see how it works.

Photo used with permission BrightSaver

Read more...

Solarize Kenmore program for solar roofs also available to Lake Forest Park

Photo courtesy Daily Sabah

Have your thought about a solar roof?

Kenmore is offering a program called Solarize Kenmore. Lake Forest Park residents are invited to participate. 

On May 14, 2025 at 6:30pm at the Kenmore City Hall 18120 68th Ave NE, Kenmore 98028 Solarize Kenmore is hosting a workshop on solarizing. 

Vetted providers who can determine if your home is a good prospect for a solar roof can come to your home and provide an estimate for the cost of solarizing. 

Because the vendors are using bulk purchasing you may be able to save money on installation.

City of Lake Forest Park residents and small businesses can join the program and get the benefits of the program RSVP here.

Solar energy has become an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint, save on energy costs, enhance grid reliability and increase property value. Investigating solar energy for your home can offer numerous benefits, both immediate and long-term.

One of the primary motivations for switching to solar energy is its positive impact on the environment. 

Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. By harnessing the power of the sun, homeowners can significantly lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Solar panels generate electricity without producing harmful pollutants, making them an eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources.

Installing solar panels provides a safe, reliable source of energy. In Lake Forest Park most of the electricity is generated by Seattle City Light’s hydro power. Solar power provides homeowners and small businesses increased reliability.

By generating your own electricity, you can become less reliant on the grid, something particularly beneficial in areas prone to power outages.

Homes equipped with solar panels often experience an increase in property value. 

Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell faster and at a higher price than those without. Potential buyers are attracted to the idea of lower energy costs and the environmental benefits associated with solar energy. 

Investing in solar panels can be a smart way to enhance the marketability and overall value of your property.

The government incentives are still in place. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront costs of installing solar panels and improve the return on investment. incentives include tax credits, rebates, net metering programs. Click here to go to the Washington state website that describes current incentives.

Adopting solar energy can make cities more resilient to the impacts of climate change. Solar reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The reduction in fossil fuels can improve air quality and public health. Homeowners and small businesses that invest in solar power contribute to a larger movement towards sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Solarizing Kenmore provides participants with a site assessment to determine the suitability of your property. Factors such as roof condition, shading, and available space will impact the efficiency and effectiveness of the solar energy system. Professional installers can provide a detailed assessment and recommend the best options for your specific situation.

The size and design of the solar energy system will depend on your energy consumption, budget, and available space. A larger system can generate more electricity but will require a higher initial investment.

Investigating solar energy for your home or business can lead to numerous benefits, including environmental impact, cost savings, energy independence and increased property value. 

While there are considerations and challenges to address, the potential rewards make solar energy an attractive option for homeowners seeking to create a sustainable and cost-effective living environment.

Read more...

Curious about Solar Energy for your home? Kenmore program extended to Lake Forest Park residents

Solarize Kenmore (and Lake Forest Park) is back again and open for enrollment. Kenmore has invited Lake Forest Park residents to participate in the program.

What is Solarize?
Solarize Kenmore is a limited time program where residents get access to discounted prices, vetted local installers, and quality made-in-Washington equipment.

How does this program work?
The program simplifies the process, removes the guesswork, and dispels misinformation about home solar. 

Residents receive special pricing through a group purchasing discount. The Solarize program uses a range of criteria to ensure qualified installers are selected to work with residents. 

After signing up to receive a free solar assessment, an installer will schedule time to review costs, technical details, and solar capabilities of interested participants.

Why have rooftop solar?
Solar energy has clear economic and environmental benefits. Lake Forest Park gets its energy from Seattle City Light, generated by hydropower. Rooftop solar can provide an additional, reliable energy source, reduce your electricity bill, and strengthen the grid.

How do Lake Forest Park residents take advantage of the program?
Kenmore will host two information sessions: April 10 and May 21, 2025 both at 6:30pm at the Kenmore City Hall, 18120 68th Ave NE, Kenmore WA 98028.

If you are ready to sign up for your free solar assessment you can do so at SolarizeKenmore.org. Residents must sign up by July 4, 2025, to guarantee pricing.

Note: The City of Kenmore is offering an additional incentive to its residents. This incentive is not available for Lake Forest Park residents.

Read more...

SolarFest 2018 celebrated the power of the sun

Local booths included Diggin' Shoreline
and the Puget Sound Beekeepers

By Maryn Wynne
Photos by Steven H. Robinson

Under the power of the sun, Shoreline Solar Project celebrated the 15th annual NW SolarFest July 28 at Shoreline Community College.

Second Use recycles building materials

Visitors came from all over the region to learn about the latest in sustainability products and services, participate in workshops, and enjoy the festival setting. Over 70 exhibitors including businesses and nonprofits participated.

Coastal Classic tiny home by
Shoreline builder Carriage Houses

The festival welcomed local Shoreline builder Carriage Houses who brought their Coastal Classic Tiny Home, an affordable charming cottage built with high quality materials.

The Living Vehicle has extended off grid living features

Interior of the Living Vehicle

Also at the fair was Living Vehicle, a mobile living space designed for full time use with extended off grid living features.

Test drives in the Tesla

There were a lot of electric cars, but it was the
electric truck that caught the attention of the visitors

Electric vehicles and electric bikes filled the Transportation Zone. Visitors were able take a test ride in an electric car, including the Leaf and the Tesla and test ride an electric bike through the campus of the college.

Rad Power Bikes raffled an electric bike

Visitors were excited to support SolarFest by purchasing a chance to win an electric bike by the Presenting Sponsor Rad Power Bikes.

KIDZone

The KIDZone was a safe place to run through the grass, make an energy pledge and play with solar cars. Kids were busy at the Home Depot building workshop and PCC’s Make your Own Trail Mix tables, and kids enjoyed the visits from the Bubbleman and the Brain Waite Band.

Entertainment on the Showmobile stage

The entertainment was outstanding on the Showmobile Stage. Thanks to the Shoreline/LFP Arts Council for its use.

We thank each and everyone one of our participants, sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, performers and volunteers and the community that supports this event.

Thank you for coming and mark your calendar for the 16th NW SolarFest on July 27, 2019.

Read more...

NW SolarFest Sustainable Living Fair Saturday - here's what to see

NW SolarFest 

Sustainable Living Fair

Saturday, July 28, 2018

10 am – 5 pm

Shoreline Community College

16101 Greenwood Ave N

Shoreline 98133

FREE ENTRY and FREE PARKING 

NW SolarFest is celebrating its 15th year and has grown to be the largest and longest running sustainability fair in Washington State.

You can learn how to live a more sustainable life and see what choices might work for you and your family. 

Visit over 70 booths that highlight products, services and information to help you make choices that will help leave a cleaner, safer planet for our children.

Solar curious? Talk to over 14 local solar installers and see what solar solutions are right for you.

Bring the family and visit the KIDZone to get a solar mini car, build a birdhouse, make your own trail mix, and many other activities.

Support Girl Scouts as they earn their Girl Scout Sun Patch at NW SolarFest. Patches are awarded upon completion of the Solar Passport and worksheet. Applaud them at the award ceremonies.

Test Ride an electric bike and check out the latest in electric cars in the Transportation Zone.

Win prizes with our Sponsor Passport, 1st prize is a Four Person Three Day Backpack Emergency Preparedness Kit, MSRP $250, from American Preparedness a service-disabled, veteran owned business and leading manufacturer and distributor of emergency preparedness kits.

Raffle fundraiser to win a Rad Power Electric Bike

And yes… the alpaca will be there.

There’s more:

• Conversation Café, Features workshops on preparedness: How to survive the “Big One”, Solar Solutions for emergencies, 90 minute Basic Preparedness. See full schedule.
• Electronics Recycling, easy drop off before parking, follow signs
• Backyard Barter Fair - bring your homegrown or homemade items to trade (2-4pm)
• Tiny House by Shoreline’s own Carriage Houses on display

Enjoy the low carbon, high joy, food and entertainment. 

Entertainment Schedule:

Main Stage

10:00 Latona Family Band, Upbeat covers of our favorite bands with a few originals.
11:00 'Na Hilahila Boys, Hawaiian lapsteel music
1:00 Seattle Shores Chorus, Sweet Adeline’s woman’s chorus
2:00 Rainy City Riff Raff, They JUMP, they JIVE, and oh do they WAIL!
4:00 Pickled Okra, “Old-school, porch-settin’, singin' into a can-style bluegrass.”

KIDZone

11:00 Latona Family Band, 2015 Buskers in the Burg Festival Winner
12:00 The Bubbleman, Have a bubblicious good time in the sun.
1:00 The Brian Waite Band, Musical theater, imaginative storytelling, laughs and a great rock ‘n roll concert for the whole family
2:00 Coty McGowen, Hip hop Circus Arts
4:00 Mike Wendt, Unicycle Juggler

For complete details visit www.NWSolarFest.org

Volunteers are still wanted, Sign up here

Photos courtesy SolarFest

Read more...

Solar workshop Saturday

Free one hour workshop

Saturday June 2, 10am

Northwest Electric and Solar

18001 73rd Ave NE, Kenmore

Read more...

Public workshop: How to get clean energy

Rooftop solar

“How to Get Clean Energy” is a free public workshop about turning sunshine into electricity to power your home or business with a rooftop solar system.

Workshop will address:

• How solar electricity works 
• Federal, state and utility solar incentives to recover your cost 
• Made in WA solar panels 
• Electric vehicle (EV) charging an 
• Tesla Powerwall backup battery 

Held on Saturday, June 2 from 10am to noon at the new Kenmore location of Northwest Electric and Solar where you can see solar in action and charge your electric vehicle for free. RSVP to Joan@NWSolar.com or 206-356-0601. (If this date doesn't work for you, contact Joan to get solar info separately.)

Northwest Electric and Solar, 18001 73rd Ave NE, Kenmore, WA 98028, 206-356-0601

Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center is the selected charitable organization to receive a solar system the size of which will be based on installation volume for 2018.

Read more...

Workshop on how to get clean energy

“How to Get Clean Energy” is a free public education workshop about solar electricity and level two electric vehicle charging presented by Northwest Electric and Solar.

Attend one of several date/time options:

• Wednesdays, 6 to 8 pm on March 28, April 11, May 9
• Saturdays, 10 am to 12 pm on April 7, May 5, June 2 

Workshops will be held at the new Kenmore location of Northwest Electric and Solar at 18001 73rd Ave NE in Kenmore where there is visible rooftop solar and free EV charging.

Workshop will cover how solar electricity works; about the federal, state and utility incentives; Made in WA solar panels; what is needed for electric vehicle level two charging at home or office; and battery backup power.

Refreshments served. For details contact Joan@NWSolar.com or 206-356-0601.

Read more...

Teachers go green at SCC Energy Technology program

Students and instructors of the Washington STEM Educator Solar Institute
install a solar panel on the solar training roof on Shoreline Community College’s campus.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College

Shoreline Community College’s Clean Energy Technology program hosted eight area middle and high school teachers at the third annual Washington STEM Educator Solar Institute held on Shoreline’s campus August 8-10.

The program is designed to give hands-on training in solar technology to area instructors and to provide Institute participants with techniques to teach solar principles in their classrooms in effective, engaging ways.

Participants learned about basic solar principles, became familiar with photovoltaic (PV) technology by installing a PV system on the college’s solar training roof, and developed a solar PV laboratory lesson for use in their classrooms.

“I’m always looking for current, hands-on material that is going to excite my students,” said Craig Patterson, a middle school math and science teacher who participated in this year’s institute. 

“And in my experience, middle-school aged kids are very into solar – it’s like magic to them – so the Solar Institute is great because it’s taught me concepts I can easily bring back into the classroom and use to engage and foster my students’ interest in green energy.”

“Solar technology is a booming industry in the Puget Sound region,” said Louise Petruzzella, Director of the Clean Energy Technology program at Shoreline. “As the go-to institution for clean energy training in the region, it’s very important to us to offer resources and learning opportunities for STEM educators who can offer their students a look into the techniques, the technology, and the industry and to open their eyes to a potential career they may not have thought about.”

Patterson is already thinking about how he can incorporate the techniques learned at the institute into his middle school curriculum for fall.

“The technology I learned at the institute has a lot of applications for the scientific method and the engineering design process. I’m excited to think about having students assemble a PV system and make predictions about how it’s going to behave and to systematically test it under different conditions. And it’s scalable – lots of room to match your curriculum to your resources and your students’ interests.”

Get more information about the Solar Institute. Learn more about Shoreline’s Clean Energy Technology program. SCC will offer the same program next summer.

Read more...

Seattle City Light expected to reach State’s Solar Incentive Cap

Solar Incentive Payments will be reduced by approximately 35 percent for 2015-2016 Fiscal Year

With the increased demand and popularity of solar generation, Seattle City Light estimates that the state’s annual incentive payment for each of the utility’s solar customers will be reduced by approximately 35 percent for the 2015-2016 fiscal year, which ends today.

City Light is expected to reach its solar incentive cap set by the Washington state Legislature due to various factors, including the increase in average solar system size installed, greater solar resources and decreasing retail sales. The cap determines how much money in state incentives each utility can distribute to its customers who own solar panels.

City Light will not know the actual reduction amount until all production reads have been collected. Solar customers will be notified in September 2016.

Solar customers receive a variety of additional benefits for engaging in solar generation, including the federal solar investment Tax Credit, a Washington state sales tax exemption for systems less than 10 kilowatts and net metering. These benefits will not be affected by the incentive payment reduction.

To stay updated on the solar incentive cap, visit the City Light solar incentive cap web page.

Read more...

Solarize Shoreline Campaign: Free Educational Workshops Coming

Solar panels were installed at the City Hall garage
in 2010 in partnership with the Shoreline Solar Project

going solar...

Solarize Shoreline is an initiative to bring solar energy to homes and businesses within the City of Shoreline.

It is a limited-time campaign designed to help homeowners and small businesses purchase solar electric systems with a streamlined process and group discount.

Solarize Shoreline is a collaborative effort of Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development (Northwest SEED), City of Shoreline, and a team of community volunteers. 

Registration is now open for the workshops where residents can learn more about the program. 

Solarize Shoreline will hold the first workshop on Thursday, June 23, 7:00 to 8:30pm at Shoreline City Hall.

A volunteer committee selected Northwest Electric and Solar as the solar installer for the campaign. The committee made its selection through a competitive process. Participants in the campaign will be eligible not only for a group discount, but also for federal and state incentives for solar energy.

“Many people don’t realize that the price of solar has dropped over 50% in the past five years, so going solar is more achievable than you might think,” said Jill Eikenhorst, project coordinator for Northwest SEED. 

“With federal and state incentives and the Solarize discount, solar is an effective way to lock in energy prices and produce clean energy that you can feel good about.”

To qualify for a free site assessment and community pricing, interested residents and business owners should attend one of three free educational workshops. Workshop attendees will learn about the technology; site assessments and installation; costs and incentives; and maintenance. Registration is now open.

Workshops are set for the following dates and locations: 

• Thursday, June 23, 7 to 8:30pm, Shoreline City Hall Council Chamber, 17500 Midvale Ave N
• Saturday, July 23, 10:30am to Noon, Shoreline Community College, 1500 Building, Room #1508, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133 (campus maps)
• Thursday, August 11, 7 to 8:30pm, Richmond Beach Congregational Church, 1512 NW 195th 

Workshops are free and open to the public, and residents and businesses in Shoreline are eligible for the group discount.

Northwest SEED has managed or trained the managers of 18 Solarize campaigns in Washington and Oregon, resulting in over 900 solar installations and $21 million invested.

Additional information here.

Corrected photo caption to read Shoreline Solar Project 06-09-16

Read more...

Shoreline Clean Energy Technology students go off-grid to generate power

Students in Shoreline's Clean Energy Tech program complete a mock installation of a battery based 
photovoltaic system on the demonstration roof next to the Zero Energy House on campus.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College

As the energy industry continues to advance, Shoreline’s Clean Energy Technology (CET) program remains nimble in its course offerings to anticipate and meet the growing needs of employers and consumers. In a new class added in winter of 2016, Shoreline students got to delve into the world of off-grid power generation and storage, a hot topic in the energy industry.

The course, Battery Based Photovoltaic (PV) Design, challenged students to embrace the fundamentals of off-grid power generation and storage. Fully understanding this concept, recently popularized by companies such as Tesla and Schneider, is no small accomplishment, as location, battery-housing, type of use, and budget all need to be taken into consideration when developing an energy strategy.

To further enhance learning within this multi-dimensional concept, Shoreline instructors recently led the students in a mock installation of a battery based photovoltaic system on the demonstration roof located next to the Zero Energy House on Shoreline’s campus. Utilizing cutting edge technology and techniques, students gained hands on experience they could not otherwise receive in a classroom.

“Being able to get on a roof and work through a real-world scenario with classmates is an experience you cannot find just anywhere,” said Nate Hogle, current CET student. “Contributing to the installation, and having the opportunity to learn from fellow students greatly enhanced my learning.”

In the installation exercise, students were challenged to work through properly laying out solar modules and related equipment, including mechanical roof intrusions and attachments, inverter and junction box placement, and battery cabling and storage. Through the day-long project, students were faced with numerous challenges, which were overcome with knowledge learned in the classroom over the previous quarter.

“We’re the only college in the area that I know of offering classes of this caliber in this emerging field,” said Louise Petruzzella, Director of Shoreline’s Clean Energy Technology program. “And it’s because we’re continuously evaluating our curriculum and coursework to reflect the constantly shifting nature of technology and field trends.”

To ensure students are up with current trends, new courses like Battery Based Photovoltaic Design are offered through the program to students ready to tackle new challenges.

“This is how we stay a leader in CET education,” said Petruzzella, “and why our students are so successful in finding employment after graduation. New methods of instruction, such as the mock system installation, further enrich student training and promote involvement within the industry.”

Read more...

This Saturday! End of Summer Solar Tour

Solar Tour, Saturday September 21, 2013, 10 am to 4 pm

Can solar electric or solar hot water save you money? 

Would it be helpful to speak with people who have solar electric or hot water systems on their homes?

Over 1,000 Seattle City Light customers have installed solar electric or hot water systems and many are eager to share their experience. This is an opportunity for interested individuals to learn how simple, affordable and accessible solar energy is today.

Visit Northwest Mechanical to learn about Solar electric and Solar Hot water and enjoy a bite to eat. While there you can pick up a listing of homes grouped by region to tour.

Where indicated on the list provided the homeowners are making themselves available to answer questions. The City of Kenmore and the City of Shoreline also have installations that can be viewed during the tour.  This tour represents work done by many installers using a variety of manufacturers so people can make comparisons.

Seattle City Light and Northwest Seed have also organized two kickoff Solar Q&A sessions at the Ballard Library and Jefferson Community Center from 10:30 to 11:30am. For location information and a complete list of all tour locations go to Northwest Seed website. 

For a list of additional tours with dates and events go to Solar Washington’s website. 

Here is a map of tour locations.

Read more...

End of Summer Solar Tour, Saturday Sept 21

Ribbon cutting for solar panels on City Hall garage

Solar Tour, Saturday September 21, 2013, 10 am to 4 pm

Visit Northwest Mechanical to learn about Solar electric and Solar Hot water and enjoy a bite to eat before heading out on a self guided tour of homes in the area that have solar installations. This is an opportunity for interested individuals to learn how simple, affordable and accessible solar energy is today.

Locations in Shoreline, Seattle and Lynnwood can be visited. Where indicated on the maps that will be provided the homeowners are making themselves available to answer questions. The City of Kenmore and the City of Shoreline also have installations that can be viewed during the tour.  This tour represents work done by Northwest Mechanical, Puget Sound Solar and West Seattle Natural Energy and solar equipment from a variety of providers so people make comparisons.

Seattle City Light and Northwest Seed have also organized two kickoff Solar Q/A sessions at the Ballard Library and Jefferson Community Center from 10:30 to 11:30am.

For a list of additional tours with dates and events go to Solar Washington’s website.

Map of tour locations.

Read more...

A Sunny Day for a Solar Tour

Solar panels on City Hall Parking Garage
installed by NW Mechanical

By Wendy DiPeso

The weather was perfect and the barbecued salmon delicious for the 17th Annual National Solar Tour at Northwest Mechanical in Shoreline Saturday October 6th. Naknek Seafood provided the Salmon.

Between 40 and 50 people came through Northwest Mechanical to look at solar electric and solar hot water systems. Buzz Burgett, founder of Northwest Mechanical, and David Nicol, one of the solar technicians, were there to answer questions.

Representatives from Puget Sound Energy Green Power Program were also on hand to provide information on how the public can support the creation of green energy sources.

"When you sign up for Green Power, PSE—on your behalf—will buy clean energy from independent organizations in the West using resources such as "cow power" digesters, solar and wind. And thanks to our commitment to these types of projects, these energy innovators are able to plan and grow their businesses, secure funding and create jobs—making a brighter cleaner future for everyone."

Solar has become more affordable. It is possible to put the savings on your electric bill plus Federal Energy Tax Credit and Renewable Energy Credits towards the payments for a solar electric system.

"By purchasing a Solar system, you are essentially paying for your future energy up front. The benefit of this is that you don't have to worry about energy rates increasing. In fact, increasing energy rates mean that the assessed value of your solar system goes up. This is great in the event that you move because you now have a unique, valuable feature that will increase the price of your home."

The Solar Tour is promoted by the American Solar Energy Society, Solar Washington and by regional coordinators like Northwest Mechanical.

Read more...

Take the solar tour on October 6

Start your Solar Tour in Shoreline with a mouth watering barbecue at Northwest Mechanical. 

While you satisfy your taste buds and fill your belly, expert technicians will let you see the components of solar photo voltaic and solar thermal installations up close. 

Getting your initial questions answered on this first stop will help you come up with substantive questions for property owners at the other sites. 

It will also help you better appreciate each of the other installations on the tour.

Northwest Mechanical is the area coordinator for the Shoreline Lake Forest Park segment of the 12^th annual Solar Tour promoted by Solar Washington Saturday October 6, 2012.

Feel free to return to Northwest Mechanical at the end of your tour to get another bite to eat and share your experience and get any final questions answered. 

3204 NE 145^th Street; Shoreline WA 98155 (Corner of NE 145^th Street and Lake City Way) on Saturday October 6, 2012 from 10 am to 4 pm.

The Solar Tour is a state wide event promoted by Solar Washington. Shoreline Solar Project and the Student Chapter of American Solar Energy Society (ASES) will be participating in the event. Many solar vendors in the area will also be promoting the event and inviting their clients to participate as tour sites.

Maps will be made available on the website. Download and print for use during the tour. More locations will be added to the tour through September.

                   

Read more...

Solar Energy in Lake Forest Park - costs and benefits

West Seattle Natural Energy Projects

Everyone is invited to a talk, “Solar Energy in Lake Forest Park: Costs and Benefits” on May 30, from 6:15 to 7:00 at the Lake Forest Park City Hall (17425 Ballinger Way NE), in the Council Chambers on the second floor.

The speaker is Keith Hughes of West Seattle Natural Energy, an experienced solar contractor who has recently completed a successful residential solar installation in Lake Forest Park. The talk is sponsored by the Lake Forest Park Environmental Quality Commission.

Read more...

Learn about solar electric power for your home at SCC seminar

The Community Solar Project will hold an informational meeting with everything you have ever wanted to know about the how’s, why’s and finances of solar electric installations and how it can work for you, whether your home is in direct sun or deep in the trees.

7 pm, Wednesday, March 14, at Shoreline Community College, PUB Quiet Dining Room, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133.

The session is free and the public is invited. Seating may be limited, so reserve your place via the website.

From the SCC Academic News Blog

The Clean Energy Program at Shoreline Community College and the Shoreline Solar Project are hosting a public informational meeting to explore the details of solar electric projects for residential uses as well as larger installations. With current incentives, a carefully planned solar electric project can actually make money for the homeowner and investors in larger projects.

Law, installations, and suppliers

Trying to see through the glare around solar electric systems can be difficult. The Community Solar Project goal is to present clear information about the law, installations and suppliers to make it easier to go solar. If the goal is solar on the home, or participating in a project on a local public building, the Community Solar Project has the answers.

Hardware requirements

Silicon Energy, a Washington-based manufacturer of high quality solar modules and inverters, will make a presentation on the hardware required for a solar electric system. Silicon Energy also intends to offer factory pricing to participants for group purchases made by homeowners and others interested in The Community Solar Project.

Site assessment and design services for free

For system design, Clean Energy Technology Program students from Shoreline Community College will offer site assessment and design services at no charge. The student teams are supported by Silicon Energy, college faculty and local electrical contractors to assure quality. If it makes sense, and cents, to you, the students will complete a system design portfolio.

Group projects for those without direct sun

For owners of homes nestled among the wonderful Northwest conifers, project participants will be available to discuss how you may join others, with cooperation from local government, identify and plan a community solar project. Sites for such projects have included schools, fire stations and city halls, but may also be sited on other local public facilities.

Financing

For financing questions, representatives from Puget Sound Co-operative Credit Union will be available. The credit union already has a track record of supporting such systems, convinced of the financial and societal viability. Solar may never again be as affordable and profitable as it can be right now. The Washington State incentive expires in 2020 so each year of delay decreases the available incentives. The 30 percent federal tax credit expires in 2016.

Installation questions?

And for answers to installation questions, qualified and licensed electricians will be available to talk about the general approach as well as the details specific sites.

Read more...

City Light wants to know what we think about renewable energy

It says "Seattle" City Light, but everyone in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park gets their electricity from Seattle.

Now the utility is doing long-range planning and wants to know what we think about the many options available for renewable energy - like wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass.

They have set up an on-line forum and really do want as many people as possible to participate. We have been specifically invited to participate.

Here's the website: Community Energy Forum

And here's the info from City Light:

Seattle City Light customers enjoy some of the cleanest energy in the country, with nearly 90% of our electricity supplied by clean, renewable hydropower.  But what about new renewable energy resources, like wind, solar, biomass and geothermal? And what about locally grown clean energy? All of these options have potential in Seattle. As energy users we all have a responsibility to think about these issues, and support what is best for our environment, our economy and the future generations to come. 

Seattle City Light invites you to share your ideas and opinions by joining the Community Energy Forum, a monthly online survey for customers of the Utility. Enrolling in the Forum ensures your voice will be heard on a variety of energy issues, including future renewable energy efforts. 

As a member of the Community Energy Forum, you will:

• Share your opinions with us about clean energy and other energy-related topics.

• Help influence future voluntary clean energy programs offered by Seattle City Light.

• BE REWARDED! Each month, participants will be entered into a monthly drawing for prizes.

Read more...

Party with Sustainable Shoreline and Shoreline Solar

RSVPs are always appreciated - and bring food - it's a potluck.

Read more...