by Lauren Cohen | Aug 29, 2023 | Solar, Solar for Good, Sustainability
On Saturday, August 26, The Aldo Leopold Foundation Legacy Center celebrated the completion of its newest solar array. Since the conception of the Legacy Center, the Foundation has aimed to achieve what Aldo described as, “The oldest task in human history: to live on a piece of land without spoiling it.”
The Aldo Leopold Foundation is a nonprofit conservation organization with a mission of fostering a land ethic through the legacy of Aldo Leopold. As described by him, the land ethic involves recognizing ourselves as “plain members and citizens” of the land community and treating our fellow members with care and respect.
The Foundation’s dedication to the land ethic is underscored by its new 90-kilowatt solar installation completed by All Sky Energy. This is the Foundation’s second solar installation at the Aldo Leopold Legacy Center, boosting the organization’s goal of achieving net-zero. As a complement to the new solar array, the foundation has also installed three electric vehicle charging stations and added two electric trucks to its fleet.
This project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of All Sky Energy, The Couillard Solar Foundation, OneEnergy Renewables, RENEW Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. The main source of funding came from a $152,000 Office of Energy Innovation grant and panel grants from OneEnergy Renewables and Solar for Good.
Buddy Huffaker, President and Executive Director of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, highlighted the significance of this endeavor, stating, “Obviously, this project benefits the Leopold Foundation by reducing our expenses, but we are most excited about the opportunity to continue demonstrating a conservation ethic that informs and inspires others to transition to renewable energy and electrification.”
This initiative resonates deeply with Aldo Leopold’s philosophy of living harmoniously with the land. The Aldo Leopold Foundation aims to lead by example by showcasing how investments in renewable energy promote sustainability while creating a tangible connection between modern living and the land ethic Leopold championed.
With thousands of annual visitors to the Legacy Center, the Aldo Leopold Foundation serves as an example for the broader community. This latest effort to electrify the land ethic has the potential to inspire others to embrace renewable energy solutions and drive rural electrification enhancements.
by Lauren Cohen | Aug 29, 2023 | Solar, Solar for Good
On Thursday, August 24, the Chequamegon Humane Association hosted a solar dedication to celebrate the completion of their 15.12-kilowatt solar array. The 28-panel system, installed by Jolma Electric, is projected to produce over 19,000 kWh annually. This anticipated output will offset 90-100% of the animal shelter’s energy consumption, demonstrating a substantial commitment to clean energy.
The Chequamegon Humane Association is a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter with a mission to promote and support the humane treatment of animals in the Chequamegon Bay area and beyond.
The nonprofit expects to save as much as $2,735 per year. Over the lifetime of the system, these savings will add up to more than $80,000 and will be reinvested into the organization, offsetting some of the expenses associated with providing essential health services for the animals in their care.
The success of this solar installation was made possible by a collaborative effort. The project received valuable support from various sources. Solar for Good contributed half of the solar panels required for the project. The remaining funding was covered by a rebate from Focus on Energy and community-raised funds. The local community played a pivotal role in this effort, coming together to contribute approximately $17,000 to bridge the remaining funding gap.
The significance of this solar initiative reached beyond its immediate impact. The Chequamegon Humane Association’s decision to embrace solar energy not only benefits their own operations but also sets a powerful example for other animal shelters to follow. The economic benefits realized through reduced electricity bills offer the organization the ability to allocate these funds to other essential programs and services that align with its mission. Their forward-thinking approach to cost savings through renewable energy will serve as a model for shelters across the state.
The Chequamegon Humane Association’s solar journey highlights their commitment not only to the well-being of their animals but to the well-being of their community. Through their efforts, the Chequamegon Humane Association paves the way for a more sustainable and compassionate future for animal shelters all around Wisconsin.
by Lauren Cohen | Jul 25, 2023 | Solar, Solar for Good
On Monday, July 24, The Rotary Club of Greater Portage County hosted a solar dedication ceremony to celebrate the completion of The Salvation Army Hope Center solar project. It will provide clean energy, reduce energy costs, and reinforce the Hope Center’s mission to provide secure and safe housing for the temporarily displaced and homeless in Stevens Point.
The Rotary Club of Greater Portage County selected the Salvation Army Hope Center solar project in alignment with Rotary International’s newly created Environmental Sustainability Area of Focus. The project will not only educate the community on the benefits of solar energy but benefit Stevens Point in a way that aligns with the Rotary’s mission. Thanks to this project, the Hope Center will be able to focus more resources on its work to provide shelter and warm meals for those in need.
“The Salvation Army Hope Center Solar Project was conceived as a way to increase community awareness of the environmental benefits of solar electric power while enhancing the Salvation Army’s resources to provide lodging and meals to families in need,” said Richard Zahn, Grants and International Team Lead of the Rotary Club. “Completion of the project has been a true collaboration with funding and support provided by three major grant partners, community donations, and local Rotarians.”
Northwind Solar installed the 7-kilowatt ground-mounted array, which is expected to produce 9,000-kilowatt hours of energy annually. This will offset around 15% of the Salvation Army Hope Center’s electrical demand.
“We are thrilled at Northwind to be able to provide renewable energy to an organization that serves the community,” said Dylan Jenkins, Project Manager with Northwind Solar. “We are always happy to help reduce the carbon footprint of our neighbors, and doing so with an establishment that’s dedicated to helping others is extra special.”
The Hope Center Solar Project received funding through various sources, including a panel donation from Solar for Good, a District Rotary grant, a Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin grant, and several individual donations. The combined support from these partners demonstrates the collective commitment to create a sustainable and thriving community.
By harnessing the power of solar energy, The Rotary Club of Greater Portage County and the Salvation Army Hope Center remain dedicated to driving positive change in the community while encouraging environmental stewardship. The success of this project stands as a testament to the transformative impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts and a dedication to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
By harnessing the power of solar energy, The Rotary Club of Greater Portage County and the Salvation Army Hope Center remain dedicated to driving positive change while encouraging environmental stewardship. The success of this project stands as a testament to the transformative impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts and a dedication to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
by Lauren Cohen | Jul 25, 2023 | Solar, Solar for Good
On Sunday, July 16, The Clyde Community Center hosted a dedication to celebrate and commemorate the completion of their 8-kilowatt solar array. Formerly an elementary school, the Clyde Community Center’s mission is to foster community by providing a space for Avoca, WI, residents to host programs or participate in recreational activities.
The ground-mounted solar array is projected to produce 10,000-kilowatt hours of annual energy, offsetting 100% of the community center’s current usage. This transition to solar power is just the first step in the Clyde Community Center’s long-term vision of implementing energy-efficient upgrades.
“Our former grade school means a lot to the residents of our township as a public gathering place, but it needs upgrades,” said Juniper Sundance, Solar Champion of the Clyde Community Center.
Planned upgrades include replacing and adding insulation, installing energy-efficient lighting, and replacing the classroom air conditioning units and wall furnaces with heat pumps. These improvements will optimize the solar system’s performance by minimizing energy waste and ensuring the community center maximizes its renewable energy potential.
This project was made possible through various financial rebates and grants, including an $11,500 Focus on Energy Rebate and a $1,200 grant from Solar for Good. Clyde Community Center also received several donations from its community members.
The Clyde Community Center solar project can be largely accredited to the town’s residents who already use solar to power their homes and understand how beneficial additional solar would be for their community. “Living in an area without much infrastructure, we are aware of our need for sustainable systems,” said Sundance. “We see a potential for educating our neighbors on solar.”
The involvement of Clyde residents serves as a powerful testament to the idea that people are far more likely to install solar when they see someone they know and trust already using it successfully. This solar installation is another example for others within the township to follow.
Clyde Community Center’s solar installation demonstrates the organization’s commitment to the environment as well as its residents. By installing this system, the center can continue serving the town for years to come.
by Lauren Cohen | Jun 29, 2023 | Programs, Solar, Solar for Good
On Wednesday, June 13th, The Friends of the Sauk County Fairgrounds hosted an event to celebrate the completion of their 19-kilowatt solar array. The Friends of Sauk County Fairgrounds is a nonprofit whose mission is to help fundraise and support the preservation of the historic Sauk County Fairgrounds.
Located in the City of Baraboo, the 24-acre Sauk County Fairgrounds is now home to two solar arrays, totaling 52 panels. These installations, completed by All Sky Energy, are projected to generate over 26,000-kilowatt hours of electricity annually. By doing so, they will contribute to a 43% reduction in the fairgrounds’ yearly electric utility costs.
Steeped in a rich history spanning more than 150 years, the Sauk County Fairgrounds remains home to several original structures, a testament to their enduring legacy. These fairgrounds hold immense significance as a venue for historical preservation. While the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their usual lineup of events, it also presented an opportunity for the Sauk County Fair to prioritize cost-saving measures, ensuring its continuation for another 150 years.
For the youth community in the region, the Sauk County Fair has served as a valuable educational resource, imparting knowledge about the vital role of agriculture. “By installing solar energy, we are showing a continued commitment to providing a safe venue for our youth to develop these skills, a long-term solution for cost savings, and the importance of helping save the environment at the same time,” said Amy Bible, treasurer of the Friends of the Sauk County Fairgrounds.
The Friends of the Sauk County Fairgrounds received funding from various organizations, including Focus on Energy and Solar for Good. Solar for Good, a program initiated by RENEW Wisconsin and the Couillard Solar Foundation, aims to promote and support solar power among mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin. The collaborative efforts of these organizations have enabled the realization of these solar installations.
The Sauk County Fair prides itself on its inclusive nature, welcoming families of all income levels to explore the grounds at no cost. The installation of these solar arrays will not only contribute to preserving the fair’s legacy for future generations but also serve as a powerful symbol of environmental stewardship and technological progress for the residents of Sauk County.
The funds saved through this sustainable initiative will be redirected towards public education initiatives on agriculture and the preservation, maintenance, and upkeep of the fairgrounds’ century-old buildings and grounds. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the fair will continue to serve as a beacon of heritage, knowledge, and enjoyment for years to come.
Completing these solar arrays at the Sauk County Fairgrounds marks a momentous achievement in their mission to preserve and promote the historic fairgrounds. Through installing these solar arrays, the Friends of the Sauk County Fairgrounds are embracing sustainable practices and demonstrating their commitment to providing a safe venue for youth development, achieving long-term cost savings, and fostering environmental responsibility. This project is proof of the combined efforts of different organizations and highlights the long-lasting importance of the Sauk County Fair. It ensures that future generations can still enjoy its fascinating history and everything it provides.
by Lauren Cohen | Jun 29, 2023 | Programs, Solar, Solar for Good
On Tuesday, June 20th, Agrace Hospice Care commemorated the completion of its 87-kilowatt solar array with a ribbon cutting. Founded in 1978, Agrace Hospice Care is a nonprofit whose mission is to provide personalized care and support for life’s changing health needs.
Installed by Full Spectrum Solar, their 212-panel solar system is projected to produce 343,481 kilowatt hours annually, offsetting 31% of the organization’s annual usage. This solar system is just one aspect of Agrace’s plan for carbon neutrality by 2025. “There are absolutely financial savings that we will begin to enjoy a decade from now, but that’s not high on our reasons for doing this,” said Lynn Sexten, CEO of Agrace. “Making sure our services are available to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay, means we’re making sure we’re being a good corporate citizen, a good community partner, and helping to further cleaner air in our local communities.”
This project was made possible thanks mainly to Focus on Energy incentives and a Solar for Good grant. Created in partnership with the Couillard Solar Foundation, RENEW Wisconsin’s Solar for Good program provided Agrace Hospice Care with a $10,000 grant to use toward their solar project.
As a nonprofit, Agrace strives to allocate as many resources as possible to direct caregiving and community services. The funds saved through this solar project will be reinvested in Janesville and other areas, ensuring the continued provision of exceptional care to those in need. By embracing solar energy and other initiatives that reduce its carbon footprint, Agrace sets an example for sustainable practices within its organization and the wider community.
To achieve their ambitious carbon-neutral goals, completing the solar array at their Janesville facility is just the beginning of Agrace’s commitment to renewable energy. They also have plans to install a solar array at their Madison facility, further emphasizing their dedication to environmental stewardship. Agrace aims to raise awareness about the positive impact of solar power on reducing operational costs, allowing for increased investment in patient care and community programs for years to come.
By embracing solar energy, Agrace demonstrates its determination to minimize its carbon footprint and allocate resources where needed most. As they continue expanding their renewable energy initiatives, Agrace paves the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for their organization and the communities they serve.
