So you’ve already enlisted the help of 401(e) and performed our home performance recommendations, and now you’re looking to take the next step in energy performance, savings, and self-sufficiency. Maybe solar is right for you.
It may be difficult to think of our area as a hot-spot for solar, but Grand Forks actually has a very good solar resource – about the same as Houston, Texas and Tallahassee, Florida. See below.
A solar resource map from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
401(e) works with the Rural Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL), a solar manufacturing nonprofit out of Pine River, Minnesota to offer our clients an array of solar products and services. Please check out RREAL’s Facebook page and website for more information on the organization.
Founded in 2000, RREAL manufacturers solar air heating collectors for use as a supplemental heat source. Delivering about 15 – 30% of a household’s heating needs, the collectors help families and individuals stabilize their energy bills in the midst of rising fuel prices. The technology has both residential and commercial applications. The diagram below illustrates how the technology works.
Photo credit: RREAL
Locally, RREAL has partnered with Red River Valley Community Action on a number of solar air heat and solar hot water installations, and we are now pleased to offer solar to interested 401(e) clients.
Solar energy is clean, renewable, and economical. Whether interested in solar air heat, solar hot water, or solar electric (photovoltaic), 401(e) can help you achieve your solar energy goals.
