Educators from Solar Now! offer tools for inspiring community-level energy independence
Solar Now! University is heading to Bend with the goal of growing local clean energy programs. Solar Now! University is an annual train-the-trainer conference intended to educate local governments, non-profits and solar advocates about solar energy in Oregon. Solar Now! University was created by the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, Energy Trust of Oregon, Solar Oregon and the Oregon Department of Energy.
Offered on September 20-22 at the McMenamins Old St. Francis School in Bend, the third annual Solar Now! University brings together motivated communities from rural Oregon to take part in a statewide educational and outreach effort to increase awareness and demand for rooftop solar energy.
Jeff Eager, Mayor City of Bend said: “On behalf of the City of Bend, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our community for the 3rd Annual Solar Now! University Conference. We are pleased to be a sponsor of this event and to help advance solar technology in the state and region. The City has actively participated in a number of solar efforts and projects in Bend, including providing City Hall with 100% renewable energy through Pacific Power’s Blue Sky program. Again, welcome to Bend and please enjoy your stay!”
Attendees will receive guidance about how to develop local solar energy programs. Educational sessions address the following topics: Solar Technology Basics; Community Outreach Strategies; Tax Credits, Incentives & Grants; Solar Energy Policy; Financing Options; and Permitting & Codes. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet and network with Oregon’s solar energy experts and peers.
For more information about Solar Now! University 2012, visit:
http://solaroregon.org/solar-now/
Sponsors of Solar Now! University: Solar Oregon, Energy Trust of Oregon, Oregon Department of Energy, City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, Umpqua Bank, Supply Solutions, SolarWorld, Sunrun, Resource Consultants, Sunlight Solar, E2 Solar, The Environmental Center, Citizens’ Utility Board, and the City of Bend.
Solar Now! was created to help citizen volunteers, organizational leaders, municipalities, and solar champions establish local solar outreach programs. With the right resources, training, and support, community and municipal leaders can create their own community solar initiatives. Current financial incentives for homeowners in Oregon remain some of the best in the nation.
