Let’s Create Solar Friendly Communities
Come to a Workshop for Local Leaders that I’ll be speaking at for Sustainable Hudson Valley. This interactive workshop will focus on supporting solar-friendly communities by providing practical tools and strategies for local leaders. The goal is to help them promote sustainability and renewable energy initiatives in their areas. We will explore the latest trends in solar energy. Additionally, we will discuss effective communication strategies for engaging the community. We will also share successful case studies from other regions. Participants will have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. Further, they will gain insights into how they can implement similar projects in their own towns. Here are the details:
July 15, 2014 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at SUNY Orange, Kaplan Hall
About Solar Friendly Communities:
As solar power drops in price and gains in popularity, the marketplace is more complex, competitive and confusing than ever for customers. Sustainable Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountainkeeper are two community-based organizations with a long–standing commitment to clean energy. They are developing new programs to help communities, households and small businesses with consumer education. These programs also include innovative marketing inspired by the Solarize initiatives in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
This meeting will showcase the empowering resources available to communities from our networks, which have been carefully curated to address the unique needs and aspirations of each locality. In addition, you will learn about New York State’s excellent new technical assistance programs, designed to foster innovation and sustainable development. These dedicated partners are well-prepared to help communities become solar-friendly through streamlined permitting and free zoning reviews. This also helps facilitate a smoother transition, especially to renewable energy sources. Moreover, they offer comprehensive financing and marketing strategies aimed at maximizing community engagement and ensuring successful implementation of solar projects. This holistic approach not only enhances local energy independence but also contributes to environmental sustainability and economic growth within the region.
To learn about these resources and share your thoughts about additional program needs, please join us for a workshop and discussion featuring:
Jayson Uppal, Meister Consulting Group/ NY-SUN Trainers, “Creating Solar Friendly Communities”
Max H. Joel, NYSERDA, “Community Solar in NY”
Mark Lowery, Climate Policy Analyst, NYS Office of Climate Change, “Climate Smart Communities – Reaching for the Sun”
Bob Fischman, Director of Commercial Programs, Energize-NY “PACE Financing: Game Changer for Commercial Solar”
Seth Leitman, The Green Living Guy and McGraw-Hill author and Editor of “Solar Power for Your Home
Elizabeth “Betta” Broad, Renewable New York Program, Catskill Mountainkeeper, “Solar Marketing Simplified: The SolarWorks Model”
Moderated by Melissa Everett, Ph.D., Executive Director, Sustainable Hudson Valley
Co-Sponsored by the NYS Climate Smart Communities Program, Orange County Planning, Courtney-Strong Inc. for NYSERDA’s EDGE Program, Catskill Mountainkeeper, and Sustainable Hudson Valley, this initiative aims to foster sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the region. By uniting these organizations, we strive to create a comprehensive framework that not only addresses climate change but also promotes green practices among local communities. Through collaborative efforts, workshops, and educational programs, we will empower residents and businesses in Orange County. As a result, they will be able to actively participate in building a more resilient and eco-friendly future.
Register by July 14, 5 pm:
