As energy costs continue to rise, Twin Cities residents are looking towards the sun for relief. Solar United Neighbors (SUN), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to representing the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters, is championing the charge by hosting a webinar focused on educating homeowners about the perks of going solar through a collective approach known as a solar co-op.

The Twin Cities Area Solar Co-op aims to guide locals through the process of transitioning to solar power, ensuring they get the most bang for their buck by tapping into the group's collective buying power. According to a post by the City of Coon Rapids, Minnesota on Facebook, “A solar co-op is neighbors coming together to get the best price from a vetted solar installer by using their group buying power and tapping into the expertise at SUN.” Moreover, SUN is extending a particularly warm hand to low-income homeowners, who may be eligible for substantial financial incentives that, could cover the majority of the installation costs.

Homeowners, regardless of income, are also eligible for a 30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, providing a significant reduction in the overall expense of going green. Those interested had the opportunity to learn more during Thursday's webinar or can catch the next session slated for Thursday, Feb. 29, at 6:30 p.m., where experts will discuss the basics of solar, its economic implications, and the functionality of the solar co-op platform.

For residents who could not attend Thursday's meeting, there's no need to fret. Another webinar is on the horizon, and it promises to shed light on how the initiative is not just about saving dollars, but also about fostering a sense of community and collective action in the face of the ongoing environmental challenges. “The webinar will cover the basics of solar, the economics of solar, and how the solar co-op works to make going solar easier and more affordable,” advised the City of Coon Rapids.