Here Comes the Sun: Exploring Solar Power Options in Sauk Prairie

The Sauk Prairie Solar Project Committee will host an event, ?Here Comes the Sun: Exploring Solar Power Options in Sauk Prairie? on Saturday, January 30th, 2016 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at the Ruth Culver Memorial Library in Prairie du Sac. Tyler Huebner, executive director of RENEW Wisconsin, will speak on the rationale for solar, financial feasibility, and viable options. Trang Donovan of Unlimited Renewable Energies (URE) in Prairie du Sac will present a case study of a local solar project, and illustrate practical considerations. Legacy Solar Cooperative?s Kurt Reinhold will describe 3rd-party financing, and the option to support local and regional projects by becoming a member of a local solar co-op. The symposium is aimed at individuals as well as local churches, organizations and government entities. The committee has been exploring ways to promote renewable energy in the Sauk Prairie area since 2013. Members feel that it is important to facilitate the changes individuals and communities can make to build a sustainable and prosperous future. Jeff Virchow of Prairie du Sac co-chairs the committee. He said he has always been aware of the concerns raised by the use of nonrenewable resources. ?Over the years I have made attempts to reduce my own carbon footprint. When I learned of the possibility of a community solar project, I decided this would be a good way to become a bit more proactive in my attempts at environmental stewardship.? The price of photovoltaic solar has plummeted in recent years, making it competitive in many parts of the U.S. with electricity produced by the burning of climate-disrupting fossil fuels like coal and gas. Industrial powerhouse Germany generated 6.9 percent of its electricity from solar in 2014. Although Green Bay receives 690 more hours of sunlight per year than Berlin, the badger state currently only generates about .04 percent of its electricity from solar in a year, according to an estimate from RENEW. The solar supply chain in Wisconsin includes over 300 companies. The Ruth Culver Memorial Library is located at 540 Water St. in Prairie du Sac. Those wanting more information may contact Tom Sullivan at (608) 643-6331.