What an exciting time! It seems that nearly every day when I open the newspaper, there are more and more advancements with solar energy. The last major news announcement was about the advancement of the solar industry bill, 1403, to attract new solar energy related companies to the state. The passing of this bill has the potential to position Arizona as a hub for companies involved with solar energy. The latest major announcement this week is that Arizona was among ten states to be awarded 50% of an approved $55 million of their American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds through the State Energy Program. A variety of proposed programs will advance energy efficiency and renewable energy in Arizona, including solar energy projects. Among many programs, the grants and loans will help make government buildings more energy efficient; reduce energy consumption in Arizona schools; advance the development of renewable energy systems on high profile buildings and public spaces; and offer further incentives for solar energy users. It is not clear which of these projects will receive immediate attention; however the objective of the ARRA is to stimulate private investment, create jobs, and speed economic recovery. Let’s hope the approval of these funds will not only do just that but also put us on a stronger path to energy independence!

Holly
Public Relations

Harmon Electric and S2 Energy Partners are proud to present two solar-powered homes in Surprise, AZ on this year’s National Solar Tour put on by the American Solar Energy Society (ASES).

Here is more info from the ASES web page:

The ASES National Solar Tour is the largest grassroots solar event in history. While energy prices continue to soar, this event offers participants the opportunity to tour homes and buildings to see how neighbors are using solar energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable technologies to reduce their monthly utility bills and help tackle climate change.

Last year more than 115,000 attendees visited some 5,000 buildings in 2,900 participating communities. Now in its 13th year, this event is coordinated nationally by the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society. It takes place annually during the first Saturday in October in conjunction with National Energy Awareness Month.

An increasing focus of the tour is on energy-saving techniques and sustainability through building design, energy efficient appliances, and use of green materials during remodeling. Tours also provide helpful, real-world examples of costs and how to save money with federal, state, and local incentives,

Ultimately the tour inspires people across the nation to make sustainable energy choices that help lower costs, support energy independence, protect against power outages, and reduce carbon emissions.  We invite you to join the renewable energy revolution by participating in the ASES National Solar Tour.