Soakin' Up the Solar in Nederland, Colorado

Nederland, Colorado's Community Center got a big boost Saturday when solar panels were installed. In Colorado's 'Front Range' the winter chill is offset by lots of sunshine. Solar panels are a perfect solution for this mountain region's energy needs.

The panels will ‘harness’ enough energy to have an ‘overflow’ in times, like summer, when less electricity is needed to run the building. During the winter, the ‘green’ building’s utility bill will be reduced considerably.

The panels were perched up high on the edge of the community center roof. There were a lot of people present, helping put the solar panels up. It was an impressive cooperative activity, like the Amish barn raising where all ‘hands’ come together in an effort. They were working together with a ‘spirit’ about them, doing something very positive in a really beautiful place, and this was echoed by all.

Ray Tuomey, of Namaste’, said, “We’re installing the system, a solar electric system, also known as a photo-voltaic system. We're joined by Solar Energy International, and Colorado Center for Resource Conservation. They're doing a class on Solar Installation, and that’s why you see so many students here today. They're learning how to install a solar system from our staff. We’ve taken safety precautions, to make sure everybody is safe up here. Nederland was kind enough to let us use this installation for educational purposes. This system will (continue to) be used for educational purposes. There will be a display in the lobby of the Community Center."

Ed Eaton, of Solar Energy International explained, “We're installing this solar system as part of a six day workshop, that we've been doing in the Boulder area for quite some time now. We work with the Center for Resource Conservation. The Center pretty much put the workshop together. We are the instructors, we facilitate the ‘hands on,’ along with Namaste’ the Solar Company right here in Boulder.” They are a non-profit organization.

“We do workshops in the whole realm of renewable energy; solar, wind, water, bio-diesel, passive solar design, straw bale construction,” said Eaton. He encouraged homeowners to also consider conservation, as that saves a lot of money. You can find out more at HYPERLINK "http://www.solarenergy.com" www.solarenergy.com

Ingrid Castrejon, from Mexico City, participated in the class. She said of the project, “I love it. Its very aesthetic, and seeing so many hands working together, having fun…and these are amazing instructors. The theory behind it, I find fascinating. I’m having a blast!”

Castrejon was getting a spectacular view of scenic Nederland, Colorado. She and her class mates from across the United States, were treated to a 'typical' beautiful sunny day in the Colorado mountains, and they were ‘just thrilled.’ The solar panels they installed will continue to soak up the sun and provide warmth for years to come.