Vermonters explore solar innovation during Celebrate Solar Tours

Beneath bluebird skies, Vermonters strolled sun-soaked solar farms and toured solar-powered homes during the inaugural Celebrate Solar Tours on Saturday. Like open sugarhouse weekend in the spring and open art studio weekend in the fall, Celebrate Solar Tours gave Vermonters the opportunity to get an up-close view of solar systems, learn how they work and the story behind improving our energy future with the sun. In St. Albans, three local families participated in the statewide celebration by inviting neighbors and community members to visit their residential solar systems.

"We have a four-year-old son, so we wanted to do our part to make sure he grows up in an environment that is cleaner and healthier. We went solar and now receive a lot of questions from curious friends and family members," says Jennifer Martin of St. Albans, "The solar home tour was a perfect way to invite folks to come over and check out our system and chat with the people that helped us go solar. We love house parties, so what better excuse to get people over here."

Many Vermonters appreciated socializing about solar but an added benefit was the low-pressure opportunity to learn about home solar options. "I participated in Celebrate Solar Tours because as a homeowner I have an energy problem I'm trying to solve and I don't want to go to a big box hardware store and buy another gas-powered hot water heater that isn't particularly efficient," said Heather Fitzgerald of Burlington. "It's difficult to get advice on energy options and not have it be from someone trying to sell me something. Celebrate Solar Tours was a great way to talk to real people who've figured out some solutions."

Celebrate Solar Tours coincided with Celebrate Solar Day, as recently proclaimed by Gov. Peter Shumlin. The governor notes that "solar energy represented 99% of new electrical capacity in the state in 2014 and more than 5,000 Vermont customers have installed solar" through Vermont's net metering program. Homeowners and businesses alike enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate Vermont's commitment to a clean energy future.

Sangha Studio of Burlington joined Celebrate Solar Tours by offering Sun Salutations Yoga alongside a Community Solar Array in Jericho. Members of the array strolled the field exploring the very system they benefit from. "We joined Celebrate Solar Tours because both yoga and solar energy have a focus on sustainability. Whether in our bodies or for the planet - joining these groups together sparks creative ideas and furthers awareness for a healthier lifestyle," said Caitlin Pascucci of Sangha Studio. "Practicing and sharing yoga outdoors in a sustainable, mindful environment with other like minded businesses - those are the conversations we love to have and want to be a part of."

More than 50 solar arrays across all regions of the state participated in Celebrate Solar Tours and a map of tour locations can be found here. Many participating sites provided refreshments, music, or other entertainment such as miniature golf, a self-guided bike tour and a solar-powered maple sugar house.