TRAVERSE CITY — The Access MI solar program aims to grow the use of renewable energy and ease long-term strain on the power grid by offering discounted rates on solar energy installation and other benefits.
“What solar does is it caps your cost, if you have a home and you’re spending $200 a month on electricity and you purchase a solar system, your electricity bill may drop to $50 or $75, and that cost is capped for the next 30 years,” said CBS Solar founder Allen O’Shea.
The push comes as the area is still recovering from last year’s ice storm that knocked out power across the region, highlighting how vulnerable the current power grid can be.
While solar alone doesn’t’ prevent outages, the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities program director Ashley Rudzinski said diversifying where power comes from can strengthen long-term resilience and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
“Unless we really try to invest in hardening the grid or trying to redistribute energy resources like solar we’re going to continue to suffer,” said Rudzinski. “These storms are certainly going to keep coming, so one of the ways that people can help themselves is by investing in solar to make sure they are more energy independent.”
For homeowners who’ve already made the switch like Traverse City resident Paul Deyo, the motivation goes beyond personal savings.
“I think it’s just a good investment in the future and making sure that we have alternative energy sources it’s a good thing for the country, and it’s good for our economy.”
Organizers said expanding access to solar energy is about creating long-term stability for communities while helping the region move toward more sustainable, locally produced energy.