Can solar work in the Puget Sound region?

Yes.

OK, but can it be affordable?

Yes.

More about those and other questions will be available at 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 14, in the PUB Quiet Dining Room at Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave. N., Shoreline.

 The Clean Energy Program at Shoreline Community College and the Shoreline Solar Project are hosting a public informationa

Trying to see through the glare around solar electric systems can be difficult.  The Community Solar Project goal is to present clear information about the law, installations and suppliers to make it easier to go solar. If the goal is solar on the home, or participating in a project on a local public building, the Community Solar Project has the answers.l meeting to explore the details of solar electric projects for residential uses as well as larger installations. With current incentives, a carefully planned solar electric project can actually make money for the homeowner and investors in larger projects.

Silicon Energy, a Washington-based manufacturer of high quality solar modules and inverters, will make a presentation on the hardware required for a solar electric system.  Silicon Energy also intends to offer factory pricing to participants for group purchases made by homeowners and others interested in The Community Solar Project.

For system design, Clean Energy Technology Program students from Shoreline Community College will offer site assessment and design services at no charge. The student teams are supported by Silicon Energy, college faculty and local electrical contractors to assure quality. If it makes sense, and cents, to you, the students will complete a system design portfolio.

For owners of homes nestled among the wonderful Northwest conifers, project participants will be available to discuss how you may join others, with cooperation from local government, identify and plan a community solar project. Sites for such projects have included schools, fire stations and city halls, but may also be sited on other local public facilities.

For financing questions, representatives from Puget Sound Co-operative Credit Union will be available. The credit union already has a track record of supporting such systems, convinced of the financial and societal viability. Solar may never again be as affordable and profitable as it can be right now. The Washington State incentive expires in 2020 so each year of delay decreases the available incentives. The 30 percent federal tax credit expires in 2016.

And for answers to installation questions, qualified and licensed electricians will be available to talk about the general approach as well as the details specific sites.