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Spring Storm Response April 2026

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:57:37 GMT

If your home or solar system was impacted by recent severe hail, we're here to help you understand your options, costs, and next steps — without the overwhelm.

Planting Seeds of Appreciation and Energy Independence

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:26:37 GMT

We thank our farmers for the hard work you do feeding our communities. We know your days are long and the work is never done. From all of us at Ethos, our gratitude runs deep. We understand that even in trying times and hard seasons, what you grow truly matters.

Mini Split Rebates in Wisconsin

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:52:04 GMT

Choose Your Rebate Pathway Wisconsin offers two separate rebate programs. You can combine these programs, and understanding your total stacked incentive value starts here.

Shade Happens: How to Spot a Bad Solar Deal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 02:49:56 GMT

Going solar is a smart decision—financially, practically, and philosophically. A well-designed system should reliably work for 25+ years, lowering your energy bills and giving you peace of mind. Unfortunately, not all solar installers are playing the same game.

Group-Buy Program brings Solar Savings to La Crosse County This Summer

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 17:03:43 GMT

Ethos Green Power Partners with Midwest Renewable Energy Association, City and County of La Crosse to bring Solar Savings to La Crosse County This Summer

The Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) is thrilled to announce the new Grow Solar La Crosse program for 2025. Building on years of experience with solar programs in the area, this year’s group buy is an opportunity for residents to purchase a home solar system at a below-market cost.

Click the button below to sign up for a free site assessment, or to get email updates about the program.

SIGN UP

Partnering with local governments and community groups, the program is designed to help homeowners and small businesses cut down on energy costs by offering discounted solar panel installations. With energy bills on the rise, switching to solar can be a smart way to embrace clean energy while saving money in the long run.

“In times of uncertainty and climbing prices, one thing remains the same: we all need electricity,” says Evonne Waugh, Grow Solar’s program manager. “Investing in solar means securing lower bills for many years ahead.”

Through a solar group buy, community members join together to get better pricing on solar panel installations. Grow Solar will host free educational sessions, known as “Solar Power Hours,” to help everyone understand the ins and outs of solar energy. After these sessions, interested homeowners will be connected with a trusted solar installer for personalized site assessments and project proposals.

Viroqua-based Ethos Green Power Cooperative has been independently selected to be the program’s installer in 2025. “We’re thrilled to be working with the Grow Solar program to expand solar access in our region,” says Tomas Herrera, a sales and marketing coordinator at Ethos. “Our core focus is empowering our communities through electrification, and we’re stoked to share the benefits of solar power with our neighbors in La Crosse County this year.”

The financial benefits of switching to solar are clear and long-lasting."Once installed, solar panels generate immediate savings on your electric bill," says Lewis Kuhlman, Environmental Planner for the City of La Crosse. 'And since panels are backed by a 25-year guarantee and last for decades, they make owning a solar array a wise long-term investment.”

Grow Solar programs have been offered in 24 markets across six Midwestern states over the past 12 years. Nearly 25 megawatts of new clean energy generation has been added through those programs, producing millions of kilowatt-hours of clean power every year.

“Previous Grow Solar programs have collectively saved participants hundreds of thousands of dollars on their energy bills, and we want La Crosse County residents to access those savings!” says Jeff Schneider, communications coordinator for Grow Solar. “Incentives that make solar panels much more affordable are still in place, making 2025 a great time to make the switch to solar.”

The program’s free Solar Power Hours will be hosted throughout the spring and summer, both in-person and virtually.

In-Person Solar Power Hour:
Thursday, June 26th at 5:30pm at the Holmen Library . Co-Hosted by La Crosse County

Register

In-Person Solar Power Hour:
Tuesday, July 15th at 5:30pm at the Onalaska City Hall . Co-Hosted by the City of Onalaska

Register

Virtual Solar Power Hour:
Thursday, July 24th at 2:00pm, online via Zoom.

Register

In-Person Solar Power Hour:
Thursday, August 7th at 5:30pm at the Nature Place . Co-Hosted by the City of La Crosse and La Crosse County

Register

About Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA):

The Midwest Renewable Energy Association promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration. Based in Custer, Wisconsin, MREA provides renewable energy career training and solar group buy programs across the Midwest.

About Grow Solar La Crosse:

Grow Solar La Crosse, led by MREA, the City of La Crosse, the City of Onalaska and La Crosse County, facilitates group buying of solar panels to make solar energy accessible and affordable for residents and businesses in La Crosse county.

About Ethos Green Power Cooperative:

Ethos Green Power Cooperative is a full service solar installer based in Viroqua and serving Southwestern Wisconsin. Their mission is to provide the highest quality renewable energy services to the rural areas surrounding Viroqua, as well as creating new sustainable jobs, stabilizing the cost of electricity and moving away from fossil fuel dependence.

Solar Power Fuels Growth in Viroqua

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 21:27:28 GMT

How the Inflation Reduction Act is powering success for Wisconsin small businesses

When the Vernon Economic Development Association (VEDA) transformed a former factory into the Food Enterprise Center, it opened the door for dozens of small businesses to thrive in Viroqua. In 2023, the Center added a 100 kW solar array – 30% of which was funded through the Inflation Reduction Act’s direct pay provision. In this video, tenants of the Center share how on-site solar is lowering their energy costs, helping them to grow their businesses and reinvest in their community. With these federal incentives now at risk, local entrepreneurs speak out about what’s at stake – and why continued investment in rural communities and small businesses is “a really important piece in moving America forward together.”

Transcript:

Today we're at the Food Enterprise Center in Viroqua, Wisconsin. It is a business incubator for local food and wellness businesses. In the past, this building was the National Cash Register manufacturing facility and warehouse. After they left the area, the Vernon Economic Development Association was able to redevelop it into about 100,000 square feet of small local businesses.

When National Cash Register left, around 80 jobs were lost. In a small community, that's a significant number. Now, there are more people employed in this building than when it was National Cash Register. Many different businesses of various sizes operate here, making it a great resource for Viroqua by providing space where companies can grow and begin to flourish.

One challenge that all small businesses face is uncertainty. The Food Enterprise Center helps address that by offering a stable location where rent and utilities are predictable. Having on-site solar contributes to that stability by providing more certainty in energy costs and expenses for the future.

Because Community Hunger Solutions is a small nonprofit, any opportunity to save money is critical. Sourcing energy for our walk-in coolers from the solar array instead of purchasing it from the utility saves a significant amount annually, allowing us to put that money directly back into our program to benefit the community.

The solar array at the Food Enterprise Center is a major resource for local businesses in Vernon County. Thanks to reduced costs, several businesses have been able to expand their operations. With potentially another 23 years of life in this solar array, those benefits will only grow.

For a small town, the scale of this project is huge. Having federal government support shows genuine investment in our community and our future. Programs like the Inflation Reduction Act provide the entire community with resources to build stability and resilience.

If IRA funding were cut or eliminated, local communities—and the nation as a whole—would feel the effects. Businesses would lose opportunities to reduce costs, which might force some to cut jobs. The Act is an essential piece in moving America forward together.

Planting Seeds of Solar: Reaping the Benefits of Clean Energy

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 18:11:01 GMT

A Customer's Solar Journey in Holmen, WI

For nearly four decades, Dave Schipper and his wife, Lori, have lived on their two-acre property just outside the rural village of Holmen, Wisconsin. Long before they installed solar panels, the Schippers had been harnessing the sun’s power the old-fashioned way—by gradually planting trees and shaping the landscape.

Dave explained that a church gathering about their existing commitment to Earth stewardship is what inspired them to start thinking about adopting solar energy. “We went to a church gathering and they talked about as a Christian, you know, you should think about those kinds of things.”

But when it came to designing a rooftop system, one issue immediately arose: all that beautiful foliage the couple had planted over the years cast too much shade for rooftop solar panels. “I really thought it was going to be on the roof,” he recalled.

Despite this hurdle, Dave and Lori found a path forward thanks to the help of Ethos Green Power Cooperative.

Our People

Counting the Costs—and the Benefits of Solar

Before committing, Dave—a bean counter at heart—ran the numbers, “As we started talking to the experts, we could clearly see that our electricity bill was very high…around $200 a month,” he explained. “So we kind of thought…can we get rid of $200 a month payments?”

To his surprise, the answer was yes: “everybody assured us we could, and one year later it definitely is working.”

Dave acknowledges how the financial benefits resonate with everyone: “Not everybody is really worried about climate change. But start talking dollars and cents—it’s really an investment.”

Indeed, Dave was pleasantly surprised by the long-term returns. He explains that investing some of their 401(K) retirement funds in solar yields immediate, tax-free savings: “We took that, dropped it into solar. And it's growing, by my pocketbook, monthly,” he said, “and that monthly savings is not taxed...so now it’s cash right in your pocket."

Because the panels over-generate some months, Dave and Lori receive a check from the power company for the surplus as part of their net metering policy . “We did get a check back, but you get a check back at the wholesale [rate]. So if you can use that electricity yourself, you end up having the advantage at retail.”

Dave says he appreciates that flexibility: “If we do move to an electric water heater, it’s [powered by] free electricity.”

Solar as a Legacy

Beyond reaping the benefits for themselves, Dave and Lori believe one of the greatest gifts solar offers is a kind of legacy.

At some point, new owners will have a home that needs no electric bill. “We knew we probably will not be here when that solar panel is done working…but the property will have better assets because of that,” Dave reflected. “Maybe future owners will have that same luxury of having no electrical bill.”

He also hopes his story can serve as a conversation starter—particularly among friends who remain skeptical. Whether rooted in concern for the planet or basic household economics, he’s outspoken about how the solar payoff can be compelling to people on both sides.

Ultimately, Dave views his decision as not simply about eliminating an electric bill or ensuring a solid investment return. It’s also about contributing to a broader shift in how we power our homes and communities.

Why Choose Ethos?

“It was an important aspect to us that we were comfortable with the people,” he said. “We felt very comfortable with how Ethos was set up, that they would be there for us ten, fifteen years from now. ”

"We never did sit down with ourselves and say, 'let's look at their core values ,'" Dave admits, "It just came across immediately. You didn't have to research. You could just feel that that's what they were bringing to the table."

For Dave and Lori, that balance of stewardship with dollars and cents carries the promise that solar can be both financially sensible and an investment in the health of our planet. That blend of pragmatism and heart may be why his story resonates: it shows that planting seeds for tomorrow ensures a future that's "made in the shade."

Freezing of Federal Funds Thawed by Solar

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:52:55 GMT

On January 20, 2025 the Environmental Protection Agency, under new management, froze $7 billion in contracts awarded through the Solar for All program.

Withdrawing funding for programs like Solar For All and the USDA REAP program are a direct blow to the powerful work being done in Wisconsin to maintain economic vitality, energy independence, and environmental stewardship.

The EPA committed $62.4 million in Wisconsin, with $50 million specifically dedicated to lowering electric bills for nearly half of working families. Moreover, the USDA awarded $66.7 million in REAP grants according to a press release that has been removed from the USDA website .

This funding has proved successful in supporting our farmers and communities while also helping to stem the rising cost of electricity as a whole . In short, solar energy empowers not only individual households but entire communities by ensuring neighborhoods have reliable access to power and helping to keep local energy costs down.

The Viola Municipal solar project installed by Ethos Green Power is a testament to community impact. Designed to produce 12.84% of Viola’s current energy needs , the project pairs solar with 440 kWh of battery storage to ensure that affordable, locally generated power is always available—even during peak demand. With an ROI of just 3.5 years , it is projected to generate over $4 million in electric bill savings over 30 years, turning investment into immediate and long-term community benefits. Environmentally, the project cuts 504 metric tons of CO₂ annually , equivalent to powering 98 homes every year.

Federal funding like the EPA’s Solar for All grant is critical for supporting Wisconsin’s solar industry— a key economic driver in a state without fossil fuel resources . In fact, solar power jobs make up over a third of all Electrical Power Generation jobs in the state —more than twice the next-highest segment of wind—while 73,398 of the state’s energy workers are employed in clean energy. These sustainable, good-paying jobs align perfectly with the “all of the above” energy strategy embraced by Federal policy makers.

The demand for solar energy is unchallenged. Consumers are determined to own their power and embrace the freedom of choice that comes with access to solar energy. Solar can be deployed faster and more affordably than most traditional electricity generation methods—especially compared to nuclear—and with rapidly decreasing costs of energy storage solutions, the momentum for solar is unstoppable.

The people of Wisconsin will continue doing the work we do to secure our energy future in America—whether the federal government recognizes us or not. We hope it doesn’t come to that, but we’re strong enough to take our energy destiny into our own hands.

All Of The Above

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:16:32 GMT

The Data Center Boom and Our Grid

"Artificial Intelligence" (AI) projects (that make possible the image shown above) require massive computing power. An AP News story highlights how Amazon and Microsoft alone are driving huge expansions in data center capacity, creating an “ unprecedented strain on local power grids .” According to a Utility Dive analysis, data center load growth could soon make up a noticeable chunk of our total electricity demand, pushing costs higher for everyday folks.

The U.S. Department of Energy recently released a report noting that "data centers consumed about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity in 2023 and are expected to consume approximately 6.7 to 12% of total U.S. electricity by 2028." Add in the looming possibility of more extreme weather events that demand extra heating or cooling, and our state’s power needs will spike even further.

There's no silver bullet when it comes to the complex task of solving the onslaught of demand for power. We can't dig (or drill) ourselves out of this problem. We need an "All of the Above" strategy of practical, ready-to-go technologies to meet this moment.

Look Up

A recent Reuters article underscores the complexity of transforming the nation’s power grid. But complexity shouldn’t paralyze us. Instead, let’s tackle it one piece at a time. In Wisconsin, we have a rock-solid workforce of trained tradespeople and strong communities ready to invest in locally generated power –all we have to do is look up.

The sun does not discriminate. Its power is available to all who choose to capture it. What's even more, solar power can be deployed quickly and affordably with very little bureaucracy–right in our own backyards and on rooftops!

This fact has not gone unnoticed by big tech. Plans for a $100 billion ( maybe $500 billion? ) Stargate AI venture championed by the President emphasizes that solar is going to be a key power source .

The rationale is simple– power generated behind the meter eliminates costs and inefficiencies associated with centralized power generation, long-distance transmission, and utility fees.

Plugging into their very own solar power plant, businesses and homeowners gain energy independence and resilience at a relatively stable and predictable cost. On-site generation coupled with battery storage can continue to power essential loads during grid outages and potentially eliminate charges associated with peak demand or "time of use" rates.

Sure, wind, hydro, and maybe nuclear each have their own part to play, but let’s face it—building a new plant here in Wisconsin would be a massive undertaking requiring specialized engineers, federal approvals, and years of planning.

If we look at the speed of deployment, cost of installation, and immediate availability of trained local workers , solar is front and center. Solar farms and rooftop installations can pop up in months and scale quickly as demand increases.

A Local Lifeline: Why Solar Works in Wisconsin

If there’s one thing Wisconsinites know, it’s how to rally around each other when things get tough (especially if there’s cheese or beer involved). Local, renewable power is a natural extension of that community spirit.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts that U.S. power usage will jump to record highs in 2024 and 2025 . That might sound intimidating, but it also spells opportunity for Wisconsin’s economy. By investing in renewables such as solar:

We keep more energy dollars cycling in our own communities (think local jobs, local spending, local pride).
We’re not left waiting on pricey nuclear projects or heavily specialized construction crews—solar can be rolled out relatively quickly by teams right here in Wisconsin.
We build energy security , so we’re not at the mercy of out-of-state fossil fuels or international fuel costs.

“Renewables were the fastest and cheapest energy generation capacity to deploy in the U.S. last year,” according to Canary Media . That’s not some fairy-tale marketing slogan—that’s a real stat pointing to our immediate, practical options.

And in an economy where “local” is a badge of honor (just look at our farm-to-table culture), solar aligns perfectly with our values of self-reliance and community well-being .

OWN YOUR POWER

We all love a bit of control over our destiny. A personal solar setup—or community solar arrangement—lets you take the reins on your energy future. If the grid starts wobbling during a blistering heat wave or an Arctic blast, your own panels ( and possibly a battery backup ) can help keep your lights on and your fridge running.

PV Magazine USA recently reported on bipartisan efforts in Congress to retain clean energy tax credits , which can make installing solar panels more affordable for homeowners and small businesses. That means more Wisconsinites can hop on board without breaking the bank.

So next time you see your neighbor’s roof glinting in the afternoon sun, remember that they’re not just saving money; they’re also making our shared grid a bit sturdier.

This Is Only The Beginning

So there you have it: how solar just might be the hometown hero we need. The rising demand for electricity, especially from AI-driven data centers, isn’t just an abstract national issue. It’s coming right to our doorsteps in Wisconsin.

By going solar , we:

Tackle the surge in power consumption head-on.
Keep energy investment and jobs local, boosting our state economy.
Take charge of our own energy resilience in the face of extreme weather.
Safeguard ourselves from price spikes or supply bottlenecks in fossil fuels.

By the way, this article was written with the help of an AI tool —an irony that isn't lost on us. We also understand that with great power comes great responsibility. While we seek to address the climate crisis, we recognize that installing solar isn’t only about being “green.” It’s about being prepared , empowered , and forward-thinking —all qualities that we Wisconsinites hold dear.

So let’s raise a glass —or a mug of coffee if that’s more your speed—to a brighter, more self-sufficient future. Ready to get started? Reach out for a free site assessment, snag those tax credits, and help forge a Wisconsin built on homegrown, sustainable power.

How Solar and Heat Pumps Are Transforming Our Energy Future

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:40:37 GMT

Save Money, Earn a Return on Investment, and Help Your Neighbors

What’s Causing Electricity Rates to Rise?

Transmission and Grid Maintenance: Electricity prices are rising primarily due to the growing expense of delivering power across the grid, known as distribution and transmission costs. Utilities must maintain and upgrade aging infrastructure, respond to extreme weather events, and incorporate new technologies—all of which drive up the price of moving electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. While fuel and generation costs also factor in, the share devoted to distribution and transmission has surged, leading to higher rates for consumers.

Fuel Price Fluctuations: Traditional fuels, such as natural gas and coal, can experience sharp price swings due to factors like global market conditions, supply constraints, and geopolitical events. When the cost of these fuels goes up, utilities often pass those increases on to their customers through higher electricity rates. This volatility makes energy bills less predictable and underscores the appeal of more stable-cost resources like renewables.

Reality Check: While some people claim that expanding oil and gas drilling could substantially lower electricity costs, evidence suggests otherwise. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), oil plays a relatively small role in power generation, and expanding drilling generally has a limited, long-term impact on natural gas prices. Global market forces, distribution and transmission upgrades, and the growing competitiveness of renewables usually overshadow any short-term benefits from new drilling. In fact, much of today’s electricity rate increases stem from infrastructure and grid modernization costs rather than fuel prices. This indicates that the argument for cutting electricity bills significantly through more drilling is largely overstated.

In addition to the cost of natural gas as a commodity , there are still substantial costs involved in running and maintaining natural gas power plants. As utilities move toward lower-emission technologies, many of the costs associated with fossil fuels are expected to rise, not fall. Essentially, we’re already depending heavily on natural gas, so increasing its use further won’t eliminate the operational and infrastructure expenses that come with burning fossil fuels. Furthermore, increasing demand on natural gas will only cause the price of the commodity to go up. This helps explain why shifting to energy sources with lower ongoing input costs—like solar and wind—can be more economical in the long run.

How Solar Panels Counter Rising Rates

Once you install solar panels, you start generating your own electricity and reducing the amount you buy from the utility. The result: an immediate drop in your monthly bill.

• Attractive Return on Investment:  Rooftop solar systems often pay for themselves within a handful of years through reduced energy costs, incentives, and net metering credits —where you’re compensated for the excess electricity you send back to the grid.

• Community-Wide Benefits:  When more homes generate power locally, utility companies can lower their distribution costs—less electricity has to travel long distances over power lines. This can help stabilize or even reduce rates for everyone.

Exact figures can vary by system size, incentives, and local electricity rates, but data from RENEW Wisconsin and Focus on Energy indicates that homeowners in Wisconsin typically see a solar payback period of about 7–10 years. This assumes taking advantage of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), plus any applicable state or utility incentives. The average savings of an Ethos customer is around $24,000 over the life of the system.

The Power of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are an ultra-efficient way to heat and cool your home by moving heat rather than creating it.

• Reduced Energy Use: Because they’re so efficient, heat pumps can significantly cut your heating and cooling costs.

• Lower Carbon Footprint: If you power your heat pump with solar panels, you’re using clean energy to comfortably heat or cool your home, minimizing your environmental impact.

• Better for the Grid: By using less electricity overall, heat pumps place less stress on utility infrastructure, helping to contain costs across your neighborhood.

This means significantly lower utility bills compared to traditional HVAC systems—according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pumps can cut heating energy use by about 50%. Their ability to both heat and cool a space makes them incredibly versatile and scaleable for a wide range of environments. For older homes, workshops and mother-in-law apartments, ductless (mini-split) heat pumps are popular because they’re easy to install without extensive ductwork , and they efficiently provide both heating and cooling. In multi-family or hospitality applications, larger centralized or variable-refrigerant-flow (VRF) heat pump systems can handle multiple units at once, optimizing energy use across the property. Even in specialized settings like boats , heat pumps can be used to regulate temperature efficiently in tight quarters. Wherever they’re used, heat pumps offer efficient comfort at a low operating cost.

BTM Efficiencies: Saving You Money and Helping Your Neighbors

“Behind-the-meter” resources—like solar panels, heat pumps, and other energy efficiency upgrades—aren’t just about your individual savings. They create a ripple effect:

• Reduced Strain on the Grid: Generating some of your own power or using less energy means utilities don’t have to ramp up as many power plants, ultimately slowing rate increases.

• Lower Distribution Costs: The less electricity that needs to flow from distant power plants to your area, the less utilities pay for things like transmission maintenance, lowering bills for everyone connected to that grid.

• Community Resilience: Distributed energy resources can keep neighborhoods powered if grid disruptions occur, adding another layer of reliability.

According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, distributed solar alone has helped offset billions in infrastructure upgrades by reducing peak demand on the grid. Meanwhile, a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) shows that a typical 6 kW residential solar system can eliminate roughly 6 to 7 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year, underscoring how BTM technology not only cuts homeowner energy bills but also reduces strain on the overall energy ecosystem.

Environmental and Social Benefits

• Cutting Carbon Emissions: Solar and heat pumps rely on clean, renewable energy, leading to fewer greenhouse gases.

• Leading by Example: When neighbors see the financial and environmental benefits of BTM solutions, they’re more likely to adopt them—multiplying the positive impact on the entire community.

• Healthier Communities: Fewer emissions mean less pollution, which translates to cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone.

The Bottom Line

Rising electricity prices don’t have to be inevitable. By investing in rooftop solar, installing efficient heat pumps, and taking advantage of other energy-saving upgrades, you can save money, earn a robust return on investment, and help lower costs for your entire neighborhood. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to protect the environment and create a more resilient energy future for everyone.

If you’ve been on the fence about solar or switching to a heat pump, now is the time to take action—your wallet, your neighbors, and the planet will thank you.

Weekly Positive Energy News from Ethos Green Power

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:48:08 GMT

ICYMI: 2024 BANNER YEAR FOR RENEWABLE INVESTMENT IN SOUTHWEST WISCONSIN

Last year witnessed significant advancements in renewable energy, marked by the completion of large-scale solar projects, strategic investments in clean energy infrastructure, and the implementation of state-level initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability.

Badger Hollow Solar Farm: Located in Iowa County, the Badger Hollow Solar Farm became fully operational in early 2024. As Wisconsin's largest solar park, it features approximately 830,000 panels capable of powering over 75,000 homes. The project represents a substantial step toward increasing the state's renewable energy capacity.

WIKIPEDIA

Grant County Solar Project: Alliant Energy completed a 200-megawatt solar project in Grant County, providing enough energy to power more than 50,000 homes. This project is part of Alliant's broader initiative to expand renewable energy sources across the state.

WPR

Investments and Infrastructure Developments

FOCUS ON ENERGY

Dairyland Power Cooperative's Renewable Initiatives: Based in La Crosse, Dairyland Power Cooperative secured nearly $573 million through the USDA's Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. This funding will support the procurement of 1,020 megawatts of renewable energy via four solar and four wind installations across rural areas in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. The initiative aims to create well-paying jobs, significantly reduce emissions, and lower energy costs for rural communities. REUTERS UW-MADISON ENGINEERING

Local Solar and Battery Projects: In La Crosse County, Dairyland plans to invest $15.6 million to install 2 megawatts of solar photovoltaic generation at two sites, connected to a 4 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. This setup is expected to produce enough electricity to power up to 1,000 homes, enhancing local renewable energy capacity and grid reliability.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line: The 102-mile, 345-kilovolt transmission line connecting Iowa and Wisconsin became operational in September 2024. This infrastructure project is designed to enhance electrical reliability and support the integration of renewable energy projects in the region.

State-Level Initiatives

Wisconsin's Clean Energy Plan Progress Report: The state's Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy released its 2024 progress report, outlining achievements toward transitioning Wisconsin to a clean energy economy. The plan emphasizes goals such as achieving 100% carbon-free electricity consumption by 2050 and creating over 40,000 jobs by 2030.

WISCONSIN SUSTAINABILITY OFFICE

We Energies' Renewable Energy Expansion: We Energies filed plans to build five new large-scale renewable energy projects, including 500 megawatts of solar power and 180 megawatts of wind power. These projects are expected to power approximately 250,000 homes, further advancing the state's renewable energy infrastructure. The plan includes 100 MW of new battery storage, which would be charged during the day to provide customers with "sunshine after sunset."

FOX6 NOW

MISO's $4 Billion Transmission Projects in Wisconsin: Driven by the need to accommodate increasing renewable energy generation, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) has outlined plans for $4 billion in transmission projects in Wisconsin. MISO estimates that construction will generate between 4,000 and 12,257 jobs and between $817 million to $4.5 billion in economic output. These projects aim to enhance the state's electrical grid to support the growing influx of renewable energy sources.
URBAN MILWAUKEE

Weekly Positive Energy News from Ethos Green Power

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 17:14:21 GMT

Large Scale Upgrades to Infrastructure Underway

Wisconsin is continuing to lead in transitioning toward a clean energy future through large-scale investments, infrastructure upgrades, and renewable energy development. Significant federal investments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act funding for programs like HEAR and HOMES and the $2.5 billion loan guarantee for We Energies projects, showcase how federal and state governments are aligning resources to accelerate renewable energy adoption.

Wisconsin is leveraging various renewable energy sources, including solar, hydropower, and energy storage. Large-scale solar projects like Vista Sands and Charter Steel's installation complement smaller-scale initiatives, such as behind-the-meter solutions. These initiatives not only reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels but also provide economic benefits by creating jobs, lowering energy costs for residents, and supporting local businesses.

Projects like the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line and American Transmission Co.’s grid upgrades reflect a broader strategy to modernize electricity infrastructure. This ensures the grid can handle increased renewable energy inputs while meeting growing demand from electrification efforts. Concerns about compatibility with existing natural environment continues to be a hot button issue, with proponents of conservation arguing for more localized energy production and distribution.

American Transmission Co. Pursues Major Grid Projects: Pewaukee-based American Transmission Co. (ATC) is vying for a substantial portion of a $3.8 billion initiative to upgrade Wisconsin's power grid. This effort is part of a larger $21.8 billion plan by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) to enhance electricity transmission across the Midwest.

The upgrades aim to accommodate increasing electricity demands from data centers, electric vehicles, and other emerging technologies, ensuring grid reliability and supporting the integration of renewable energy sources.

Projects are scheduled for completion between 2032 and 2034, pending approvals from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and MISO's contractor selection process.

BIZ JOURNALS (paywall)

We Energies Secures $2.5 Billion for Renewable Projects: We Energies has received a conditional commitment for a loan guarantee of up to $2.5 billion from the U.S. Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office. The funding will support the development of over 1,650 megawatts (MW) of utility-scale renewable power generation and energy storage projects across Wisconsin, including the rehabilitation of the Big Quinnesec Falls hydropower facility near Iron Mountain, Michigan.

Significance: This marks the first loan guarantee under a program created by the Inflation Reduction Act, reflecting a significant federal investment in Wisconsin's renewable energy infrastructure.

RENEWABLES NOW

Completion of Controversial Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line: The 345-kilovolt Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line, spanning 102 miles between Iowa and Wisconsin, has been completed after 13 years of planning and construction. The line is designed to transport clean energy from renewable sources in Iowa to consumers in Wisconsin, enhancing grid reliability and supporting the integration of renewable energy projects in the region.
The project faced significant environmental opposition and legal challenges but proceeded following a federal appellate court decision earlier this year.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

WPR

Weekly Positive Energy News from Ethos Green Power

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 23:36:18 GMT

Wisconsin Launches HEAR Program

Recent developments in Wisconsin's solar energy sector highlight a significant expansion, with large-scale projects receiving approval and moving toward construction. This growth underscores the state's commitment to renewable energy and its potential to power a substantial number of homes with clean electricity.

Key Developments:

Launch of HEAR Program: Wisconsin has officially launched the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) Program, funded by $74.5 million from the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). It provides instant rebates to low- and moderate-income households for energy-efficient appliances, reducing monthly energy costs. The HEAR Program joins the Home Efficiency Rebate (HOMES) Program, offering comprehensive energy-saving rebates. Wisconsin is among the first states to roll out both initiatives. STATE AFFAIRS

HEAR Income-Based Rebate Recap:

Households below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI): Eligible for rebates covering up to 100% of project costs, with a maximum of $14,000.

Households between 80% and 150% of AMI: Eligible for rebates covering up to 50% of project costs, also capped at $14,000.

Households above 150% of AMI: Not eligible for HEAR rebates.

Eligible Upgrades and Maximum Rebates:

ENERGY STAR Electric Heat Pump Water Heater: Up to $1,750.

ENERGY STAR Electric Heat Pump for Space Heating: Up to $8,000.

ENERGY STAR Electric Heat Pump Clothes Dryer: Up to $840.

ENERGY STAR Electric Stove, Cooktop, or Range: Up to $840.

Insulation, Air Sealing, and Ventilation: Up to $1,600.

Electrical Load Service Center (Electrical Panel): Up to $4,000.

Electrical Wiring: Up to $2,500.

Approval of Vista Sands Solar Project: The Wisconsin Public Service Commission has approved the Vista Sands Solar Project, set to be the largest in the state's history. Located in Portage County, the project will generate over 1,300 megawatts (MW) of electricity, sufficient to power more than 200,000 homes. It will also include a 300 MW battery energy storage system, enhancing grid reliability. Construction is slated to begin in March 2025, with completion expected by December 2028.

WISFARMER

Completion of Paris Solar Park : Southeastern Wisconsin's first large renewable energy project, the Paris Solar Park, is now fully operational. Situated in Kenosha County, the 200 MW facility comprises nearly 500,000 solar panels, providing enough energy to power approximately 60,000 homes. The project was constructed primarily by Wisconsin union workers, contributing to local employment.

WE ENERGIES NEWS

SunVest Solar's Project at Charter Steel: SunVest Solar has completed a 19.5 MW solar installation at Charter Steel's manufacturing facility in Saukville, marking Wisconsin's largest behind-the-meter solar project. This installation directly powers the steel mill with clean, local electricity, demonstrating the industrial sector's shift toward renewable energy sources.

SOLAR POWER WORLD

These projects reflect Wisconsin's proactive approach to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic growth through job creation and energy cost savings.

Grid-Tied Principles: Net Metering

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 18:41:58 GMT

Understanding how your solar power system connects to the grid.

Behind the Meter: Independent Power

"Behind the meter" refers to electricity saved, generated, or stored on your side of the meter. This means that if you generate electricity with solar panels, you can use that power directly without it passing through the meter.

In fact, anything that happens behind the meter—such as electricity generated by solar panels, energy stored in a home battery, or even electricity saved through energy-efficiency—doesn't get measured by the utility meter, and isn't billed by the utility.

In essence, "behind the meter" represents more control over your energy usage. By using systems that are behind the meter, you can reduce the amount of electricity you need to buy from the utility and level up your energy independence.

The Grid: Your Power Partner

Grid-tied systems give you the flexibility to exchange electricity with the grid depending on how much you need.

When your solar panels produce more energy than you can use, the extra electricity flows out from behind the meter to the grid, and can be used by others in your community.

When your panels aren’t producing enough electricity, power from the grid flows into your household to make up the difference.

Interconnection is a two way street and net metering is how utility companies bill for the exchange of electricity sent to and from the grid.

Net Metering: Give and Take

Utilities bill for electricity per kilowatt hour (kWh) and the rates may fluctuate based on season or time of day. This is sometimes referred to as peak and off-peak pricing. Utilities often include a fixed monthly fee as well as delivery fees per kWh.

At the end of each billing cycle, the utility charges you for the kWh of electricity they sent through the meter. With a grid-tied solar system, you also receive credit for the energy you’ve sent to the grid.

Reminder: Electricity generated behind the meter that is consumed by you is not measured or billed by the utility company.

Only electricity that has passed through the meter is used to calculate the difference in energy usage. This is commonly referred to as a “true up” calculation.

Most utility companies “true up” monthly by issuing a credit per kWh for electricity you’ve sent through the meter into the grid.

The amount of the credit is equal to the price per kWh they sell electricity (retail) or the “avoided cost” per kWh they buy electricity (wholesale). The rate used to calculate your credit varies by utility company.

Below is a hypothetical example of a customer's utility bill before and after installing solar:

It is important to note that you receive the most value from the energy you generate and use behind the meter. In simple terms, every kWh you produce that is used by you is one less kWh you’ll need to buy from the utility.

Weekly Positive Energy News from Ethos Green Power

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:38:03 GMT

Wisconsin Leads in Renewable Energy

Recent developments in the U.S. solar energy sector highlight a significant shift towards renewable energy, with substantial investments in solar infrastructure and innovative projects enhancing energy resilience and sustainability. Notably, Wisconsin is emerging as a leader in this transition, exemplified by the completion of the state's largest solar farm and the implementation of net-zero energy schools.

Key Developments:

Wisconsin's Renewable Energy Expansion : The Badger Hollow Solar Park, now fully operational, stands as Wisconsin's largest solar project, generating 300 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy—enough to power approximately 90,000 homes. This milestone underscores the state's commitment to clean energy.

WE ENERGIES NEWS

Net-Zero Energy Education Facilities : The Maplewood Intermediate/Middle School in Menasha, Wisconsin, has implemented a microgrid system, making it the state's largest fully electric, net-zero school. This initiative is expected to save the district around $190,000 annually in energy costs, serving as a model for sustainable educational infrastructure.

PV MAGAZINE USA

Community Solar Initiatives : Community solar projects are gaining momentum, providing solar power options for those unable to install individual rooftop panels, such as renters and homeowners with unsuitable rooftops. This approach fosters inclusivity in the clean energy transition, offering cost savings and local job creation.

TIME

Corporate Investments in Renewable Energy : Google has announced plans to build data centers adjacent to solar and wind farms, aiming to offset pollution from traditional power grids and promote greener infrastructure. The first industrial park is expected to be operational by 2026, reflecting corporate commitment to renewable energy integration.

THE VERGE

These developments indicate a robust and inclusive advancement in the U.S. solar energy landscape, with Wisconsin playing a pivotal role through large-scale projects and innovative applications in education and community programs.

Further Reading:

Wisconsin's Largest Solar Project Now Fully Operational

Fully Electric, Net-Zero Wisconsin School Powered by a Microgrid

Community Solar Is Filling an Important Gap in the Clean Energy Transition

Google's Future Data Centers Will Be Built Next to Solar and Wind Farms

Choosing the Best Battery Backup Solution

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 18:34:06 GMT

Understanding Backup Battery Systems

Choosing the right battery system starts with understanding your specific needs and situation. Not all systems work the same way, so it’s important to find the one that fits your goals, whether you have or plan to install solar, how reliable your current power is, and how much backup power you might need.

System Options Overview

AC Coupled Battery System

Best For : Customers wanting backup power without solar, or those with an existing solar system who want to add battery backup.
Recommended Product : FranklinWH Battery

Solar and Battery Backup Hybrid System

Best For : Customers who want solar and battery storage connected to the grid, aiming for energy independence while still relying on grid power as backup.
Recommended Products : Enphase 5P Battery

Off-Grid Solar and Battery System

Best For : Customers looking to go fully off-grid or those with limited grid reliability, needing a self-sustaining power solution.
Recommended Products : SolArk Inverter with Discover Batteries

Product Information Summaries and Key Points

AC Coupled Battery System: FranklinWH Battery

Product Summary : The FranklinWH battery system is an AC Coupled battery that integrates with existing solar systems or can operate independently. Ideal for backup power needs.
Storage Capacity : 13.6 kWh per battery
Additional Equipment : FranklinWH aGate X (required to manage energy distribution for backup and charging).
Optional Equipment : SPAN Panel (for added energy management).
Pros :
Adds backup power without needing solar installation.
Modular, allowing easy system expansion.
Cons :
Limited scalability for large backup needs.
Works best with a grid connection; not ideal for off-grid.
Best Use Case :
Affordable Entry : Cost-effective solution for basic backup power.
Flexibility : Can be added to existing systems or as a standalone battery.
Scalability : Start with one battery and expand as needs grow.

Hybrid Solar and Battery Backup Systems: Enphase 5P Battery

Product Summary :
Enphase 5P : Known for its compact design, the Enphase 5P provides 5 kWh of backup and grid-tied solar integration with 24/7 monitoring.
Storage Capacity :
Enphase 5P: 5 kWh
Additional Equipment :
Enphase IQ System Controller (manages battery and solar integration).
Optional Equipment : SPAN Panel (enhances energy control).
Pros :
Grid-tied capability allows energy savings and peak load reduction.
Compatible with many solar inverters, adding flexibility.
Cons :
Limited functionality without a solar system.
Higher upfront cost compared to AC Coupled batteries.
Best Use Case :
Energy Savings : Offset grid use, reducing utility bills.
Reliable Backup : Ensure key systems stay on during outages.
Future-Proof : Designed for solar integration, making it ideal for customers planning solar installations.

Off-Grid Solar and Battery System: SolArk Inverter with Discover Batteries

Product Summary : The SolArk and Discover battery combination provides a powerful off-grid solution, ideal for customers seeking full independence from the grid. This system offers high efficiency, reliability, and can be tailored to larger energy needs.
Storage Capacity : Discover AES batteries, 5.12 kWh each, with scalable options.
Additional Equipment :
SolArk 15kW Inverter (highly efficient off-grid inverter).
APS Rapid Shutdown (1:1 per solar module).
Discover AES Rack and Gateway Components (for battery system integration).
Pros :
Ideal for off-grid living or areas with very unreliable grid power.
Scalable for large energy needs.
Cons :
Requires more maintenance and monitoring.
Best Use Case :
Total Independence : Completely disconnect from the grid, ideal for remote locations.
Scalable : Customize system size to match high energy demands.
Robust Backup : Dependable, even in prolonged outages.

Asking the right questions

“What’s your primary goal with a battery system?”

Backup Power : If you are primarily concerned with backup power for outages, an AC Coupled battery or hybrid solar-battery system may be best.
Energy Independence : If you are aiming for total independence, we recommend a hybrid system or off-grid solution.

“Do you currently have a solar system, or are you planning to install one?”

No Solar : If you want battery backup only, go with an AC Coupled battery.
Existing or Planned Solar : Consider a hybrid or off-grid solution, depending on your backup needs and grid reliability.

“How reliable is your current power supply?”

Frequent Outages : For frequent outages, we recommend hybrid or fully off-grid systems.
Reliable Power : If grid reliability is high, an AC Coupled battery is sufficient, but you will save money in the long run installing a hybrid system.

“How much power do you need during an outage?”

Minimal Needs (e.g., lights, fridge): AC Coupled battery or single hybrid battery.
Extended Needs (e.g., HVAC, appliances): Multiple batteries in a hybrid or off-grid setup.

Battery Solutions Based on Need

Battery-Only Solution :
Best suited for customers without solar who are primarily interested in backup power for short outages.
Product Recommendation : FranklinWH Battery with aGate X.
Hybrid Solar-Battery System :
Ideal for customers with solar or those planning to install it who want to reduce energy bills, have backup power, and maintain some grid reliance.
Product Recommendations : Enphase 5P with IQ System Controller
Off-Grid Solar-Battery System : SolArk Inverter with Discover Batteries
For customers seeking full grid independence or those in areas with unreliable grid service. This setup supports high energy demands and extensive backup capabilities.

Ready to take the next step?

Choosing the right battery system is about understanding your goals and finding the solution that fits your situation. Contact us today to get expert advice and find the perfect battery solution for your home or business. Our team is here to help you achieve energy security and OWN YOUR POWER!

Bob's Basics: Residential Solar

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:45:40 GMT

Understanding grid-tied principles & net metering with Bob Callaway

What are the common types of solar systems and how is grid tied different from an off-grid or a standalone system?

There are three different types, I guess maybe pretty obvious, but a grid tied solar system is tied directly to the grid. There's no storage, so everything that you make is either going to get used in the house or get exported back to the grid. A hybrid system, this is a similar situation, but you do have batteries available, so if you're overproducing, you can either charge your battery or the energy can go back to the grid. And then of course an off-grid system is you're not connected to the grid at all and you have to rely on your battery bank to provide all of your energy

It’s important to note that there are a couple of different modes that hybrid systems usually operate in. The most common is what is called self-consumption, where you would charge your battery during the day when the sun is shining and then discharge the battery throughout the night so you don't have to use utility power, or to combat time of use rates. - you could charge your battery, discharge your battery when electricity is really expensive instead of having to buy it at that time.

What are some of the common misconceptions that people have concerning solar?

There is a misconception that batteries are just immediately involved in any system. Like the whole concept of grid-tied - solar with no batteries - is a little tricky for some customers to wrap their head around.

So maybe the first thing to understand is the concept of net metering itself. Net metering really is the idea that you can use the energy that you're making before it goes back to the grid and receive credit for all of your electricity you send back.

The tricky part is that not all utilities credit back electricity the same. The term net metering may imply that you’re getting full retail credit for all of your electricity that you send back. And there are a few cases where that's true, but generally there are two factors that influence how the utility credits you. There's the timing of how they credit you and the rate at which they credit you. So they're both pretty critical.

Explain the different ways utility time their credits

Many utilities do it at the end of the month, so everything that you've overproduced for the month gets credited at the end of each billing cycle. Some do it annually, so any overproduction is just carried from one month to the next and they “true up” your account at the end of the year.

Then there's another method where they do it essentially in real time or in 15 minute chunks where if you're making more than you're using for that 15 minute chunk, they're buying it back from you immediately at some predetermined rate. And that's generally considered to be the worst, especially if the payback rate is wholesale.

Why is that?

Say, for example, you're a working family and everybody's off to work in the middle of the day, you're making electricity like crazy and there's low usage in the house, the utility is buying all that production at wholesale, and you come home at night as the sun's going down and then you're buying it back from them at retail, that might not make sense.

On the other side of the coin of the rate argument, one of the best deals in the area is Westby Municipal. I live in Westby and they also true up in real time, but they pay back at retail. So to me, I am getting full retail value for every kilowatt hour that I make. So it highlights the difference between the timing and the rate.

The only time you're really getting retail value is if you're using it while it's being made. And if you're not home, that's hard to do. There's ways to combat that, if you had an electric car for example, or some other energy load that you could run during the day when the system is producing energy. The other solution, of course, is a hybrid system with battery storage.

How important is the design of my system?

What’s important is to first look holistically at your energy usage over the year and work with a good system planner to put together a system design that plays well with the terms or your utility’s net metering.

It's really important to match the system size with not only how much electricity is being used throughout the year in gross terms, but when . To look at a curve of consumption and then compare that to the curve of your production. So if you, let's say you're heating with electricity, but other than that, you don't have very much going on electrically, no big loads, gas, water heater or whatever. So your winter usage is going to be really super high and then in the summer pretty low relative to your winter months.

We're making the majority of our electricity in the summer. So if you can visualize it, those two energy curves would completely counter each other.

So let's talk about a person with electricity heat or geothermal, maybe they use 12,000 kilowatt hours in a year, but the bulk of it is in the winter months. If we just design a system to make that much energy, they'll be buying electricity in the winter and making way more electricity in the summer than you're using and selling all that electricity back to the utility.

So this goes back to how often the utility will true up your account and if that works for your scenario. If you're with a monthly true up utility, then you're going to get paid back monthly for all that overproduction in the summer. If they true up at the end of the year, then you can use the summer months to bank your electricity and the utility will just keep that on your account and you can use it to offset your usage in November and December.

Depending on how the utility's schedules its pay back, there may be a financial case to be made to put in a battery or look into installing a smaller system.

Is it possible I don't have the best scenario to go solar?

There are some times when a scenario is not a slam dunk case for solar. So one of the reasons why I love Ethos is that we're not profiteers and if we run across a situation like that, we can explain it to the customer why it isn’t a good fit - rather than just making empty promises and selling them the 12,000 kilowatt hour a year system and then not answering the phone when their bills aren’t going down. If a customer isn’t going to save much by getting solar, we’ll let them know.

What does it mean to you to be a hyper-local expert in solar?

It's kind of cool to go to events in town and say hi to all the customers that I've worked with in the past and who I know that Ethos has saved them money on their bill. It's pretty heartwarming. I get stopped pretty frequently from customers to chat about it and there's no reason to hang your head because like I said, we're above board company with that kind of thing and we're not in it to rip people off.

It's pretty fulfilling. I love solving problems and looking holistically at a client's house and their utility bill and how they heat their house and how solar might help them. That is very fulfilling and what keeps me coming back to work.

Any final thoughts?

Just the general concept of net metering that you get to use the electricity before it goes back to the grid, and then the timing at which your account is trued up and the rate which is trued up. Those are the three most important things. And then working with a company experienced in designing a system that not only generates electricity, but saves you money.

Stop Renting Your Electricity

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 21:43:11 GMT

Investing in Solar Power

Imagine you’re at a crossroads: one path leads to renting an apartment, and the other, to owning your own home. While both provide a roof over your head, the experience of homeownership is richer. With each mortgage payment, you're building equity and investing in a secure, stable future. Renting, on the other hand, involves monthly payments that vanish as soon as they leave your hands, with no lasting returns.

Now picture yourself at a similar crossroads, but this time the choice is between using traditional energy from the grid and generating your own power with solar panels. Like the renting-versus-owning scenario, both options keep your lights on, but the experience of solar ownership is richer.

Without solar, it’s like paying "rent" for your energy. Every month, your hard-earned cash goes to the utility company for electricity that’s here and gone, with no long-term gain. Rates go up, and you pay more – with no end in sight. It’s a cycle that never builds wealth or stability.

Opting for solar power is like choosing to own your home. When you invest in a solar system, every dollar you put in builds value. It's an asset, adding to the long-term value of your home, just like owning property. And, with tax incentives and financing options available, owning solar power is now more accessible than ever—lowering your electric bills and protecting you from the unpredictable rise in energy costs.

Choosing solar is like choosing to own your future in energy. Just as with homeownership, the long-term gains of solar power mean that each payment you make isn’t gone for good; it’s an investment in a brighter, more stable future.

What Is A Watt?

7074204880 — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:36:48 GMT

Understanding Power in Watts

Watts are a unit of power often associated with electricity, but watts also describe the power output of all kinds of work performed over time.

This includes relatively simple tasks like lifting a bucket, rowing a boat, and riding a bike!

Lifting a bucket: The work is done against gravity, and the power of lifting the bucket depends on its weight and how quickly you lift it. The power output to lift a 5-gallon bucket of water 1 meter off the ground in one second is approximately 185 watts

Rowing a boat: The work is done by applying force to move the boat through water, and the power output depends on the rate of rowing. On flat water, the average power output of a canoe rower is typically around 200 watts .

Riding a bike: The work is done against friction and air resistance, and the power output depends on how fast and forcefully you pedal. An average cyclist could produce about 150 Watts .

Keep in mind that power output is measured every second. This means that the work needs to be done steadily and continuously to keep energy flowing. For example, if you want to power a video game console for one hour using a bicycle, you would need to ride the bike at a steady pace for an entire hour.

How Many Watts Does A Solar Panel Produce?

Solar panels come in different sizes with different outputs. A typical residential panel will produce between 400 - 500 watts. Ground mount and commercial panels can go as high as 700 watts with higher outputs being released every year.

The Znshine 410 can produce 410 watts at peak performance.

1 MILLION WATT HOURS

The watt is a small unit of power. Therefore, multiples of the watt, such as the kilowatt (1,000 watts) or the megawatt (one million watts), are often used to describe power outputs at larger scales. In fact, your electric bill is based on how many kilowatts you consume per hour. This measurement is known as a kilowatt hour (kWh). The average household in Wisconsin consumes about 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per month.

The industry rule of thumb is that 1 kilowatt (kW) of solar installed will produce 1,300-kilowatt hours (kWh) per year. So if your home uses 12,000 kWh per year, we'd estimate you need around a 9kW solar system to meet 100% of your energy needs. That’s about 22 410w solar panels.

Or you could just plan on riding your bicycle 6,666 hours to generate enough electricity to power your home for one month! FYI, that’s the equivalent of riding 24/7 for over 275 days!

Psst...did you know?

A hummingbird uses 1.225 watts of power per second to fly? That’s 2% the energy needed to power a 60w light bulb!

Ethos Green Power Cooperative on The Ethics of Solar Financing

7074204880 — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 19:13:39 GMT

Why Ethos Prioritizes Education and Transparency Above Finance

Interview with Isaac Worley ~
Ethos Green Power Cooperative Administration Coordinator

Can you talk about the nature of leasing programs and why Ethos doesn’t offer those?

In WIsconsin, solar leasing is more of a legal or regulatory issue than it is an ethical issue. Let’s say we install solar on somebody's house or a large commercial property or something, and Ethos owns that solar and then leases it to the customer at a monthly payment, it becomes a legal issue because the utility turns around and says, “well now you are the utility competing against us for our same customer, you should also be regulated.” And the utility actually does have legal grounds here in Wisconsin to put pressure on you not to do that.

Does that insulate consumers in Wisconsin from falling victim to some of the predatory practices being talked about in the news?

Well, ultimately the financing companies are still here selling loans. And a lot of those companies continue to use predatory and misleading sales tactics that appear to offer quick solutions. When it comes to financing specifically, it's really easy. You don't need somebody to write you out a check. You just need a signature. A salesperson shows up at a customer's door, has a tablet in hand, and all they need is a signature and someone's locked into this 30 year loan.

I mean there's articles all over on the internet with stories about somebody who got door knocked by a solar rep and suddenly they’re on the hook for an $80,000 system without them really knowing exactly what was happening. And now this person is legally bound to pay this enormous loan, and they still don’t really know what they’re paying for.

The way some of these loans work, it is a requirement that the installer can't share with the customer the dealer fees. They’re under an NDA, right? They can't share that information. So the customer never knows really what the system’s actual cost is, what the sales rep commission is, and then what the dealer fee is. They don't know. They're just signing up for a loan.

And the dealer fee is usually really, really, really high. You might be getting a $30,000 solar system, but it's going to have a $10,000 dealer fee, and then you're also paying interest on it as a loan. So at the end of the day, a system that costs $30,000 if you bought it with cash turns out to be $50-60,000 once it's financed. And it's true that it might pencil out over 30 years. Maybe you're paying $250 on a loan instead of a $300 monthly electric bill, but it’s a lot of upfront expense for a marginal amount of savings.

When interest rates were at 2.9%, it was penciling really, really, really well. There was almost no reason not to sign. But now that interest rates have come up, in order to get close to that 2.9% interest rate, you need to buy down the interest on the loan. And they do that by increasing the dealer fees. So you end up with more and more and more expensive systems in the long run. So just the fact that they don’t disclose any of that information, in my mind, is kind of the biggest part of the predatory experience.

It sounds like some companies are more in the business of selling loans than installing solar. In your own words, how is Ethos different from these solar finance companies?

I think the biggest is obviously we're looking out for our customers . I mean, there are some decent financing programs out there and we realize that affordability is an issue and so we try to work with local banks. WCCU offers the solar “LEG Up Loan”. It may not be as flexible as some of these larger financing firms, but they also are offering 0% interest loans with no dealer fees. So we feel that's a value to customers instead of some of these big financing firms.

But financing is not our singular focus. I mean, we sell on education. The customer knows the ins and outs of their system before they buy. Ethos leads with education.

So when you're coming into our world, it really boils down to making sure you understand the product and that when you sign the dotted line and cut us a check, your system is going to perform at the level that you have come to learn and expect from it. You know how it works.

You get to talk to your neighbors about how it works. You get to talk to your family about how it works, the ins and outs of it, and you become, like, your own solar expert in a way.

Our slogan is, “We know solar.” It's not just that Ethos knows solar, but every customer that we work with comes to know solar. So I think that's really the biggest difference.

3 Great Reasons to Install a Solar Power System This Year

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:57:18 GMT

If you're looking for ways to cut energy costs and help the environment, solar power system installation is the answer. Not only do solar power systems help you save mon ey in the long run, but the materials used for solar panels can be recycled, reused, or sold again. In fact, 90% of this material can be reused, according to Chemical & Engineering News. This means that solar power systems are a truly sustainable way to get power and help the environment. Keep reading to learn more excellent reasons why you should consider this eco-friendly power option this year.

1. Save Money

One of the biggest reasons why people continue to move toward solar energy is to save money. Once you have made the initial investment into a solar-powered energy system, you will cut your energy costs tremendously every month. The truly exciting part is that these savings will continue year after year, so you get an amazing ROI for your efforts.

2. Invest in Dependable Energy

Oftentimes, you will hear people use the argument that solar energy is not as reliable. However, as populations are growing and energy grids are put under more and more strain, it is becoming increasingly apparent that traditional energy sources are the ones that are not reliable. Solar energy is far more reliable because the sun is always going to shine again and recharge your energy sources. New technology also allows solar power systems to store energy for days when there is not as much sun exposure.

3. Support a Cleaner Environment

Finding clean and sustainable ways to harness energy should be everyone's top priority, but even if it isn't, this is still the best reason to switch to solar energy and have a solar power system installed this year. The truth is that energy harnessed through fossil fuels is limited. It's only a matter of time before we will no longer be able to depend entirely upon this type of energy source. The sooner homeowners and businesses realize this and make the switch to solar, the sooner we can start healing our planet and slowing the ecological damage caused by burning fossil fuels.

If you want to save money, have dependable energy sources, and help our environment, consider having a solar power system installed this year. You will not regret the impact that this choice can have on your budget and the environment. Reach out to our team at Ethos Green Power Cooperative today to get started!

How to Prepare for Your Solar Panel Installation

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:41:38 GMT

Thinking about installing solar panels? According to The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, rooftop solar panels can supply the U.S. with about 40% of the total electricity required. There are several advantages to generating your own energy at home. The first is that your electricity bill becomes cheaper. If you have decided to go ahead with solar, there are a few things you should do ahead of time. Here's how you can prepare for your solar panel installation.

Decide How Much Electricity You Need

Before you can install a solar panel system on your home, you should first determine the amount of energy you want to produce. This will help you determine the size of the system you should be getting. To get an idea of how much energy is needed to power your home, you can order a home energy audit. A solar system installation expert can help you determine the size of the solar panel system needed for your home. They can also help you figure out your energy storage needs. Apart from your home's energy needs, you should also consider the amount of space available on your roof.

Consider Where the Solar Panels Will Go

It's important to figure out where your solar panels will go beforehand. That way, you can prepare your roof for the extra weight. It's important to order a roof inspection before the solar panel installation . If your roof is damaged, you should get it repaired first. Installation of solar panels on a damaged roof is not a good idea, and it can even lead to further damage. In some instances, you may also have to do some roof upgrades before you can install solar panels. Find the most reputable roofing contractor around you and tell them the weight of the panels you're considering. They can typically help you select the best spot for solar panels.

Get the Necessary Permits

If you want to put solar panels on your home, you need permits. Fortunately, the majority of solar installation companies will help you get all the necessary permits. Local authorities will require specifications for your equipment. They'll also want to see the system's design and your building plan. This is why it's a good idea for your solar installation company to take the lead. You can also look into opportunities for compensation from your utility company. In some states, you may be compensated for the excess electricity you produce.

To prepare for a solar panel installation, you should think about the permits you need, where the panels are going to go, and how much electricity you need to generate. If you're considering solar panels for your home, reach out to us today at Ethos Green Power Cooperative for a free quote and more information.

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What are the common types of solar systems and how is grid tied different from an off-grid or a standalone system?

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How important is the design of my system?

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What does it mean to you to be a hyper-local expert in solar?

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Psst...did you know?

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﻿ 3. Support a Cleaner Environment

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