This regularly-scheduled sponsored column is written by the Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy team (AIRE). This county program helps you make smart energy decisions that save you money and leaves a lighter footprint on the environment. Got a question? Email us at [email protected]!
On Monday, August 21, a total eclipse of the sun will be visible across the entire continental United States for the first time in almost 40 years. When the sun isn’t blocked, it offers a terrific, carbon-free source of power. Here are two things to know about solar in Arlington:
- Join the Greater Arlington Solar Co-op. More than 80 homeowners have installed solar with this co-op over the past two years, more than doubling the number of systems in Arlington. You can start with a free, no-obligation roof screening by visiting the co-op website before the October 1 deadline. You’ll also learn how you can save around 20 percent on the cost of a system, reduce your energy bills and help make Arlington a more sustainable community.
- Discovery Elementary is Arlington’s first net-zero energy school. That means that it creates as much power as it uses on an annual basis. This is due to its energy-efficient design and their massive rooftop solar installation. We’ll be watching the Discovery Elementary Energy Dashboard during the eclipse. As you may know, even a partial eclipse causes a significant decrease in the amount of solar power generated by solar cells. The 80 percent totality will occur at 2:32 pm. Will we see an 80 percent correlated decrease in power generation? Check the dashboard to find out after the eclipse!