Massanutten Regional Solar Co-op launch builds on success of Harrisonburg effort

Neighbors in the Massanutten Region (the City of Harrisonburg, as well as Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Page Counties) have formed a co-op to make it easier to save money on the purchase of solar panels and build a community interested in solar. This new group builds on the recent success of the Solarize Harrisonburg group that helped 68 area residents put solar on their homes. The group is working with VA SUN to receive technical expertise and support throughout the process.

The co-op will soon host a series of information sessions to educate the public about solar and recruit new members. The first info session will be held in Harrisonburg on September 3 at 6 p.m. at the Massanutten Regional Library (174 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801). See below for additional sessions.

Joining the co-op is not a commitment to purchase panels. VA SUN helps the co-op solicit and review competitive bids from area solar installers, and select one or more companies to complete installations for members.

Co-op members will then have the option to purchase panels individually based upon the installer’s offer. By going solar as a group and choosing a single installer, each participant generally saves up to 20% off the typical retail cost of their system and has the assistance of VA SUN to help navigate the process. Massanutten Region residents interested in joining the co-op can learn more and sign up at the co-op website.

Co-op information sessions

September 3 – Massanutten Regional Library, 174 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801), 6 p.m.

September 10 – Shenandoah Public Library, 514 Stoney Creek Rd, Edinburg, 6 p.m.

October 14 – Timberville’s Plains District Community Center, 233 McCauley Drive, 6 p.m.

October 15 – Bridgewater’s Community Center, 201 Green Street, 6 p.m.