The city of Hampton has partnered with Charlottesville nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) to make adding solar panels more affordable for residents.
LEAP’s Solarize Virginia project began in 2014 and has helped 714 households add solar panels, according to the organization, generating more than 6.3 megawatts of solar capacity and over $17 million in value.
Hampton housing and neighborhood services manager Jonathan McBride said: “The City of Hampton is excited to support the efforts of Solarize Virginia to improve access to solar energy solutions for homeowners. As a waterfront locality that is focused on fostering a more resilient and sustainable community, Hampton welcomes the opportunity to partner with this statewide nonprofit organization to expand sustainable energy options for our residents.”
The nonprofit holds webinars to teach residents about solar energy and does an initial screening to determine if solar is a good option. In each area where LEAP operates, it selects a preferred vendor and negotiates a group rate. In addition to Charlottesville, the organization has partnered with Roanoke, Arlington, Harrisonburg, Alexandria and other localities in the state.
LEAP executive director Chris Meyer said: “We are especially excited to bring the Solarize Virginia program to the Hampton Roads area for the first time this year. Now, more than ever, homeowners and business owners are looking to solar as a sustainable energy source, and we are proud to partner with local officials to make solar accessible and affordable to all in Hampton Roads.”
Learn more about the program or sign up for a webinar at https://solarizeva.org
