The Lakes Region Conservation Trust has been working closely with NH Solar Shares, a program of PAREI (Plymouth Area Renewable Energy Initiative), to bring a community solar PV project to the Center Harbor region, and now is the time to apply to become a solar energy shareholder.
NH Solar Shares is a community solar PV installation with 100% of the profits going to the shareholders. Their goal is to welcome low-income families so they, too, can benefit from the cost savings and environmental benefits of solar energy while also contributing to healthier communities. The solar energy generated at the LRCT Center Harbor site will be applied as a solar credit on the electric bills of 12 families or individuals from Holderness, Moultonborough, Sandwich, or Center Harbor. Local families needing assistance with their electric bills are encouraged to apply now to become shareholders.
NH Solar Shares is open to individuals and families who are receiving NH Fuel Assistance or Electrical Assistance (EAP) or living in low-income housing, including recently built Habitat for Humanity homes. Shareholders will receive a credit of $23-32 every month on their electric bills depending on the solar generation. Program participation lasts for two years with no fees to participate. Shareholders will be invited to Solar Shares Meet Ups, where they will learn how solar panels work and get tips on how to conserve energy to further reduce their home’s fuel and electric bills. Meet Ups also include activities to help maintain the Solar Shares sites, such as preparing edible gardens and clearing brush. Applications are accepted year-round, and as an applicant, your information will remain confidential. Please note that there is a limited number of slots.
Thank you to all the PAREI and LRCT volunteers and LRCT’s AmeriCorps members who have worked hard to prep the field behind the LRCT Headquarters for the installation of the solar array. And thank you to the NH businesses such as NE Commercial Solar Services, Barrington Power, Site Scapes, Mains Electric, and Mauchly Electric who will also play a key role in completing the project. The project’s completion goal is October 2023, and soon after, more of our local families will benefit from a solar credit on their electricity bill.
If you’re interested in becoming a shareholder, please email nhsolarshares@plymouthenergy.org. For more information about NH Solar Shares, visit https://nhsolarshares.org/
