Sustainable Connections is excited to announce the 2025 launch of Solarize Whatcom, a solar energy program available now through July 4th. This program will support residents of Whatcom County install solar panels on their homes and businesses. You can reserve your free solar assessment on the program webpage SolarizeWhatcom.org.
There are two upcoming Solarize Whatcom workshops that are free and open to the public:
Date: April 14, 2025, 5:30-7:00PM
Location: Sustainable Connections office, option to join virtually
Register: https://olysol.org/event/solarize-whatcom-workshop/
Date: May 29, 2025, 5:30-7:00PM
Location: Whatcom County Library – Lynden Branch
Register: https://olysol.org/event/solarize-whatcom-workshop-lynden/
In 2024, Solarize Whatcom helped over 100 homeowners get free solar assessments, with many of them choosing to contract an installation. This solar group purchasing program aims to make installing solar less daunting for homeowners by helping them navigate perceived costs, complicated technical details, and installer options.
Sustainable Connections is collaborating with Olympia Community Solar, a nonprofit recognized nationally for promoting solar energy equity. The two organizations helped facilitate a competitive bidding process to secure local solar installers by vetting contractors for equipment quality and business practices, and negotiating special pricing with Truly Electric & Solar, and Western Solar. Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union is providing special solar financing for Solarize participants.
Solarize installers will assess homes or businesses and provide a detailed proposal at the campaign’s discounted rate. If the home- or business-owner chooses to contract, the installer schedules the solar installation date. Staff at Sustainable Connections and Olympia Community Solar will also be available to answer questions, take a second look at proposals, and guide participants through every step of the process.
Solarize customers benefit from reduced energy bills thanks to their solar production and net metering. Net metering is an agreement between a customer and their utility that allows them to earn utility bill credits for any extra energy that flows back into the electrical grid. Customers can offset their entire electrical bill with solar, except for their fixed monthly customer charge. By prioritizing solar education, consumer protection, & locally trusted installers, Solarize Whatcom is making the process of going solar simple, secure, and accessible.
Home and business owners looking to take advantage of Solarize Whatcom can sign up for a free home assessment at SolarizeWhatcom.org, and direct questions towards Solarize@olysol.org or (360) 481-4020.
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About Sustainable Connections:
For 23 years, the Bellingham based nonprofit Sustainable Connections has dedicated itself to leading the transition to a regenerative local economy. The Community Energy Challenge, a program of Sustainable Connections and Opportunity Council, has been helping local homes and businesses achieve their energy efficiency and renewable energy goals since 2009.
About Olympia Community Solar:
Guided by a mission to make clean energy more accessible, Olympia Community Solar is an Olympia based nonprofit organization. They’ve received national recognition for their work to promote solar energy equity and have helped hundreds of homeowners navigate installing solar.
Images courtesy of Truly Electric and Solar