Yesterday afternoon folks gathered at the Farmers Market in Carrboro’s Town Commons to celebrate their new community solar energy system. Among them was James Ward, our Solar Energy Consultant working in the Triangle region. “It was comforting to see a community come together on a solar project for the town farmer’s market. Everyone involved from the town put forth hard work on their first solar installation which will transpire into many more to come. They should all be proud of a job well done,” he said of the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The successful installation marks the beginning of a larger neighborhood solar energy initiative aimed at promoting sustainability throughout Carrboro. Community members expressed enthusiasm about the potential benefits, including reduced energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint. As more projects are planned, the town hopes to unite residents in their commitment to renewable energy.
Indeed, every solar system that comes into operation is worthy of celebration, but this project is especially noteworthy as an innovative community investment project through a cooperative endeavor with the Town, the Appalachian Institute for Renewable Energy (AIRE) and Carrboro Community Solar (CCS) which was formed by a group of local citizens committed to bringing solar to their community. This collaboration not only enhances the local energy landscape but also serves as a model for future projects aimed at fostering public support for solar initiatives. By uniting community members, local government, and renewable energy organizations, this project ensures that the benefits of solar energy are accessible to all residents. As awareness and enthusiasm for renewable solutions grow, such initiatives pave the way for a sustainable future. This initiative not only provides renewable energy but also serves as a model for others looking to implement similar projects. Additionally, the collaboration emphasizes the importance of grassroots support and the potential of faithbased solar initiatives to inspire communities towards sustainable practices. By pooling resources and expertise, the partners are paving the way for future clean energy projects that benefit both the environment and local residents.
Their website carrborosolar.com tells the story behind the initiative and shines their enthusiasm for bringing “a clean power source for Carrboro for years to come.” While they humbly refer to the installation as a “small but significant step towards local self-reliance” it stands to demonstrate to all what is possible. As Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
See the full press release here.
