This Saturday, the Center for Coalfield Justice and Solar United Neighbors kicked off the first Greene County Solar Energy Festival. The goal of the festival was to show how solar power can save families money, grow our economy, and provide secure, reliable electricity without relying on large utilities. Despite a morning thunderstorm, the day ended up being sunny and busy with over 200 people attending the festival!
There were opportunities to connect and chat with solar installers and local non-profits. There were also various vendors selling local art, jewelry, eco-goods, and wine.
There were four presentations including: Paths to Deep Reductions in Home Energy Use, Go Solar and Fight for Your Energy Rights, Ask a Solar Homeowner Anything, and Launching Your Solar Career. Panelists included Linda Wigington of ROCIS and 1000 Home Challenge and Henry McKay of Solar United Neighbors. Check out their website to learn about solar co-ops!
Teslas were on display to showcase electric vehicles and the test rides with the owners did not disappoint! In building 8, the South Park Children’s Theater provided a wonderful Christmas routine. Beautiful local music was provided throughout the day by Dan Baker, Kittens Ain’t Biscuits (Randy and Daria Jones), and David & Mary Beth Craig.
According to Henry McKay from Solar United Neighbors, “We had a blast at the festival talking with Greene County residents about their vision for a solar-powered future and signing them up to go solar through the Mon/Yough Solar Co-op. For anyone still interested in powering their own home or business with solar energy, there’s still time to join the solar co-op at www.solarunitedneighbors.org/Mon-Yough!”
Thank you to everyone who showed up willing to learn, engage, and celebrate a bright future for southwestern Pennsylvania!
