Eastern Panhandle Solar Collaborative makes solar power more affordable

Solar Holler representatives man a tent, advertising the Eastern Panhandle Solar Collaborative, in front of the business’ building along German Street, during the Shepherdstown StreetFest 2022 on Saturday afternoon. Tabitha Johnston
SHEPHERDSTOWN — Now through July 31, local residents can take part in a new initiative, the Eastern Panhandle Solar Collaborative.
The collaborative, according to Solar Holler Community Marketing Manager Karina Centeno, was created by a committee of local residents and Solar Holler, who wanted to find a way to make solar energy more affordable.
“We were approached by Tommy Trask, who was not an existing customer, but really wanted to go solar and mentioned his community was also in need of solar and mainly battery systems. Their power was constantly going out, so we let them know of this program that we offer to help them all go solar!” Centeno said, mentioning a few other communities in West Virginia have been offered group discounts like this before, which grant all participants a discount as long as their contracts have been signed by the group discount’s deadline.
The result of the Eastern Panhandle Solar Collaborative’s work, is a group discount for solar and battery back-up systems on homes, businesses and nonprofits. The efficiency of installing a group of systems close together within a specific period of time will save money for Solar Holler, making the group discount possible.
“[The cost of solar panel installation is the primary reason people avoid going solar], and also many people are not informed on the benefits of solar and the power of producing your own electricity. However this year’s tax benefit of 26 percent and combined group discount will make solar more affordable than ever!” Centeno said, referring to the federal solar investment tax credit.
“The more folks go solar, the larger the discount grows,” Centeno said, mentioning a solar system has a lifespan of 35-40 years, 25 of which are guaranteed by Solar Holler. “No additional expenses are needed when someone goes solar. The cost depends on the needs of the homeowner, what their electric consumption and needs look like and also if they plan on purchasing an electric vehicle that they would like to charge at home. The system is low maintenance and does not require additional work once they go up.”
According to Centeno, Solar Holler is able to complete the installation of solar panels and/or a battery within a two-day time period. Including a solar panel-charged battery in a solar system costs an additional $500, but that price might be worth it, for some local residents.
“The reason most customers purchase the batteries, is because they experience constant power outages. Also, if a terrible winter storm hits, they can still have power,” Centeno said. “We are told by our customers that this is the easiest and fastest home improvement project they have ever done.”
Those interested in participating in joining the collaborative are encouraged to contact 304-362-9615 or info@solarholler.com.
“This group discount not only provides savings of up to $2,500, but also brings communities together,” Centeno said. “Utility rates won’t stop rising, they just went up this month again, plus FirstEnergy is looking for an additional nine percent increase in Potomac Edison territory — we want to make sure folks have another option. Our Neighborhood Group Discount program is our largest discount offering. On top of that, the solar tax benefits are set to drop at the end of this year. Combine those two opportunities, and going solar will likely never be more affordable for Potomac Edison customers.”