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Moorhead Residents Gather to Learn About Going Solar Together

MOORHEAD, Minn. – A crowd of over 20 Minnesota residents filled the Moorhead Library on Thursday evening to explore bringing solar power to their homes, farms, and small businesses through the Lakes and Prairies Solar Co-opSolar United Neighbors (SUN) facilitated the event in partnership with West Central Initiative, demonstrating how solar co-ops bring neighbors together to make going solar easier and more affordable. The event drew notable local support, with Moorhead City Council members Heather Nesemeier and Nicole Mattson in attendance.

The informational session covered critical topics for potential solar adopters, from recent technological advances to current financial incentives, including the Inflation Reduction Act: the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit which covers 30% of installation costs through 2032.

DeShaun James from the Center for Energy and Environment shared valuable insights with the group about home improvement financing options and solar loan qualifications, helping to demystify the various paths to making solar affordable.

Attendees also learned how co-op members can benefit from group buying power and gain access to SUN’s trusted expertise throughout their solar journey. “Through SUN’s solar co-op, I not only got a better deal on my installation, but I also gained a community of support and knowledge that made the whole process less daunting,” said Eric Buchanan, a past solar co-op participant. “These Solar 101 sessions are exactly what people need to understand their options and make informed decisions about going solar.”

John Anderson, Minnesota Program Associate at Solar United Neighbors, emphasized the importance of education in driving solar adoption. “These sessions are all about breaking down barriers to solar energy by providing clear, comprehensive information that helps residents understand their options,” Anderson explained. “When we learn together, we can transform how we think about energy—not just as something we consume, but as something we create collectively.”

Solar United Neighbors has helped more than 300 Minnesota households, farmers, and small businesses go solar through 24 successful co-ops across the state. The Lakes and Prairies Solar Co-op welcomes new members at no cost and with no obligation to go solar. For those unable to attend the Moorhead event, SUN has two virtual Solar 101 webinars scheduled for February 11th and March 25th, 2025. Learn more and register by visiting solarunitedneighbors.org/mnevents

More Information: 

A solar co-op is a community-driven approach where local residents join together to collectively purchase solar panels, negotiate better prices, and simplify the process of going solar. Co-op members leverage their bulk-purchasing power to get discounted pricing and a quality installation, while still signing individual contracts that ensure the right system for their home. It’s essentially a neighborhood-led solar purchasing group that empowers communities to take control of their energy future. Learn more and enroll for free by visiting solarunitedneighbors.org/lakesandprairies

About Solar United Neighbors

Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization that works in Minnesota and nationwide to represent the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Solar co-ops are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies.

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