In Warren, New Hampshire, a rooftop solar panel array on AppleKnockers is contributing to the community in a unique way. Instead of powering the store itself, the energy generated by these solar panels is fed directly into the electrical grid, supporting a program that helps local families reduce their energy costs.
How the Solar Array Works
The solar panel installation on AppleKnockers’ roof was designed to generate clean, renewable energy. However, rather than offsetting the store’s electricity usage, the energy produced is directed back to the grid. This energy contributes to NH Solar Shares, a program that provides energy bill credits to low- and moderate-income families in the area.
The NH Solar Shares Program
NH Solar Shares, an initiative of the Plymouth Area Renewable Energy Initiative (PAREI), aims to make renewable energy accessible to families who might otherwise struggle with high energy costs. Through this program, eligible families receive credits on their energy bills, reducing financial stress while promoting the use of clean energy.
Residents interested in participating in the program can find more information and apply here.
Warren’s Selection as a Solar Shares Site
Warren, NH, was chosen as the location for NH Solar Shares’ second solar array due to its strong sense of community and potential for impact. The solar panels at AppleKnockers are a key part of this effort, showing how local infrastructure can play a role in addressing energy equity.
The project was funded through a combination of grants, community support, and collaboration between PAREI and local stakeholders. By feeding energy into the grid, the solar array benefits families in need while demonstrating the viability of community-driven renewable energy solutions.
A Model for Community Renewable Energy
The solar panel installation at AppleKnockers has been featured in case studies, including one by Groundswell, as an example of how renewable energy can address both environmental and social challenges. This project showcases how solar energy can benefit entire communities rather than just individual properties. Read the full case study here.
Broader Impacts of the Solar Array
The energy produced by the solar panels directly contributes to reducing energy costs for families while promoting awareness about renewable energy’s potential to improve lives. Programs like NH Solar Shares highlight how solar energy can be a tool for social good, creating a ripple effect of benefits in the community.
Looking Ahead
The solar array at AppleKnockers General Store is a small but powerful example of how renewable energy projects can prioritize community impact. By directing clean energy into programs that assist local families, the initiative offers a model for similar projects in other towns and regions.
To learn more about NH Solar Shares and support their mission, visit their website at nhsolarshares.org.
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