For Immediate Release
April 16, 2020
For More Information:
Don Moreland, don@solarcrowdsource.com c-770-548-2714
Decatur, GA—Solarize Decatur-DeKalb is back to give the residents of Decatur and DeKalb County another chance to leverage the power of group purchasing to save on the cost of solar energy. The first Solarize Decatur-DeKalb program in 2017 was a huge success with 123 installations, adding 860kW of new solar capacity, and avoiding over 1.6 million lbs of CO2 emissions annually.
Solarize programs facilitate savings on the cost of clean energy systems by leveraging the power of group purchasing. The new Solarize Decatur-DeKalb program features exciting new solar technologies and clean energy products at lower costs than before, including modern, high-efficiency solar panels, battery storage systems such as the Tesla Powerwall, and EV charging stations for homes and businesses.
Through community group discount pricing, participants have saved 20% off the cost of turn-key installation services in predecessor Solarize programs, including the first Decatur-DeKalb program. There have been ten Solarize programs in Georgia so far that combine to over 550 rooftop solar arrays and add over 3.8 MW of new clean electricity capacity to homes and businesses across the state.
The organizers of the campaign, which include the Decatur Environmental Sustainability Board, Environment Georgia, Georgia Interfaith Power and Light, Sierra Club of Georgia, Solar Crowdsource, and several local volunteers, sought bids from local solar contractors to be the exclusive contractor for the program and, Summit Solar was ultimately selected.
“Summit Solar is extremely honored to participate in the Solarize Decatur-Dekalb program. Summit is excited to bring our premium customer experience to this program, delivering the best products and incredible looking installations. With rising utility rates and new net metering programs, there has never been a better time for Georgians to go solar,” said Josh Williams, President and CEO of Summit Solar.
By vetting materials, contractors, and pricing in advance and having the support of the community, Solarize programs make going solar easier and more affordable. "We’re excited about increasing the solar energy capacity of Decatur and Dekalb County, helping residents save money, and addressing climate change with the Solarize campaign," said Michael Black, Chair of the Decatur Environmental Sustainability Board.
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, Solarize Decatur-DeKalb will incorporate several social distancing policies as part of the program and follow guidelines established by the CDC. “We will perform virtual site visits; submit proposals electronically and through video conferencing; and have electronic signature capabilities for contracts,” said Don Moreland, director of Solar Crowdsource. Although the bulk of installation work is performed outside, Summit technicians are required to keep a safe distance from clients when working on site, frequently use sanitation products, and wear gloves and masks when performing inside work at a home or business.
Businesses, homeowners, and nonprofits are encouraged to sign up between April 30th and August 31st, 2020 to undergo a free solar evaluation and be eligible for group discount pricing. Pricing is based on a tiered system; more homeowners and businesses that sign a contract through the program help to bring the price down for everyone.
Organizers will host a free webinar on April 30th at 11AM to officially launch the campaign. Go to solarizedecatur-dekalb.com to register and learn more about the campaign, contractor, pricing and materials selected for the campaign.
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