Solar Energy Fair coming to Monticello

     Homeowners, business owners, farmers and leaders in local government interested in solar energy will have an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of alternative energy sources and see solar technology in action at a Solar Energy Fair on Saturday, May 20, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Citizens State Bank Youth Development Center, Jones County Fairgrounds, Monticello. The fair is designed to be a “one-stop-shop” for people considering solar PV for electricity production.

     In the morning, there will be a vendor expo from 8 a.m. to noon, featuring solar energy suppliers and installers, as well as other vendors of interest with activities for the whole family in mind. Three educational presentations on solar energy will be featured throughout the morning where those interested can learn more about solar power technology, compare and contrast solar vs. wind energy, explore how local agriculture producers are utilizing solar energy on their farms and discover how a local city government adapted solar power in their community. The event is FREE and open to the public.

     In the afternoon, stay in the area for a solar energy “crawl” to see first-hand solar operations that are already up and working. Grab our map and visit three local examples of solar energy at work for residential, agricultural and commercial settings. Get a chance to talk directly to owners and installers to find out best practices and suggestions on installing a solar system of your own.

     Why consider solar energy? “Now is a great time to consider solar because technology has improved greatly and prices have dropped significantly in the last few years,” said Solar Energy Fair Coordinator Lori Scovel. “When the economics of environmental stewardship work in the short-term, positive long-term impacts will be seen by future generations. Solar technology can be good for both your pocketbook and the planet.”

     The event is very family friendly by design, so bring the kids along. Refreshments will be available. Local sponsors for the event include Wulfekuhle Electric of Delhi, Rabe Hardware of Blairstown and Vinton, Jones County ISU Extension & Outreach, Jones County Economic Development and Limestone Bluffs RC&D.

     The Jones County Solar Energy Fair is one of two events held this spring in Eastern Iowa. Another Solar Energy Fair was held in Manchester. The Solar Energy Fairs are made possible with grant funding through East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA) and Limestone Bluffs RC&D. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook under Limestone Bluffs RC&D, or contact Lori Scovel at 563-221-1930/lscovel@limestonebluffsrcd.org.

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