Partner to help Cave Creek residents go solar

STAFF REPORT ~ 7/6/2011

The Town of Cave Creek wants to make going solar easier. As part of the Save-a-Watt program to cut energy usage, the town is partnering with Arizona SmartPower to encourage homeowners to install solar.

“Despite its affluence and one of America’s sunniest locations, Cave Creek has relatively few solar installations,” said Cave Creek Mayor Vincent Francia, who read a proclamation at a recent council meeting supporting solar. “Solar saves money, reduces pollution and fights hikes in power rates. Now is the time to take advantage of financial incentives for solar, before they drop.”

People sometimes ponder solar but never get to the action stage, said Toni Bouchard, state director of Arizona SmartPower, a nonprofit organization working with APS to promote solar power.

“Like most concepts that are new to us and a bit complicated, installing solar can be confusing,” Bouchard said. “We’re working with Save-a-Watt to give consumers the information and confidence that drives them to take action."
Bouchard said SmartPower will employ grassroots community outreach through 2015 to motivate people, building a corps of solar ambassadors already using solar who share experiences with friends and neighbors. She said a solar coach will offer unbiased advice, helping Cave Creek homeowners assess costs and savings, choose equipment and find qualified installers.

“Our services are free and we don't accept commissions," Bouchard said. “Our solar coach has been trained to walk you through each step of the process.”

Green Cave Creek and the town jointly run the Save-a-Watt, which helps residents save energy and save money through easy conservation steps and initiatives including deeply discounted energy audits for residents and businesses. To sign up, visit CaveCreek.org/GreenCaveCreek.
Contact Save-a-Watt at GreenCaveCreek@hotmail.com. Reach Arizona SmartPower at 928-637-6598 or www.azsmartpower.org