New co-op starts in Newport News

Neighbors in Newport News have formed a solar co-op to save money and make going solar easier, while building a network of solar supporters. The Hampton Roads Solar Group, Sierra Club and VA SUN are the co-op sponsors. The group is seeking members and will host an information meeting Thursday, October 6, 6:30 p.m. at the Newport News Main Street Library (110 Main Street, Newport News) to educate the community about solar and the co-op process.

Newport News residents interested in joining the co-op can sign up at the co-op webpage. Joining the co-op is not a commitment to purchase panels. Once the group is large enough, VA SUN will help the co-op solicit competitive bids from area solar installers.

Co-op members will select a single company to complete all of the installations. They will then have the option to purchase panels individually based on the installer’s group rate. By going solar as a group and choosing a single installer, participants can save up to 20% off the cost of their system.